To legally operate your vehicle on British roads, it is crucial to have valid number plates. Many car enthusiasts are opting for personalized registration numbers, and among them, the use of ‘4D’ number plates is a growing trend.
In this article, we will delve into the concept of 4D number plates and examine their compliance with the law.
What are 4D number plates? The increasing popularity of 4D number plates involves the use of standard plates with raised numbers and letters that slightly protrude from the plate’s background. However, instances have been shared on social media where vehicles with 4D number plates have been stopped by authorities. These incidents have prompted drivers to question the regulations governing number plates on the road.
What are the regulations for number plates?
In the UK, number plates must adhere to guidelines set by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for vehicle operators. The following requirements should be met:
Number plates should be made from reflective material.
The rear plate should display black characters on a yellow background, while the front plate should have black characters on a white background.
Background patterns on number plates are not permitted.
The supplier’s details must be marked on the number plate.
If fitted after September 1st, 2021, the plates must conform to the British standard ‘BS AU 145e.’
There are strict rules regarding the size and shape of the letters on a number plate. The font used should be ‘Charles Wright,’ with characters measuring 79mm in height and 50mm in width. There should be an 11mm space between the characters.
Additionally, according to the DVLA, drivers have the option to fit ‘3D’ characters on a nationally identified strip on the left-hand side of their number plates.
Are 4D number plates legal? Although the DVLA has not explicitly prohibited the use of 4D number plates, there is some practical resistance.
The police explain that while there is no specific law against using 4D number plates, the lettering and characters themselves should not obstruct the legibility of the registration when viewed from different angles.
In conclusion, if you are considering using 4D number plates, it is important to be aware of the DVLA regulations. Although they are not explicitly banned, it is crucial to ensure that the plates do not impede the readability of the registration number from various angles. Stay informed and adhere to the guidelines to avoid any issues while driving on British roads.
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