To legally drive your vehicle on British roads, it is imperative to have valid number plates. Many car enthusiasts choose 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 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, there have been instances shared on social media where authorities have stopped vehicles with 4D number plates. These incidents have raised questions among drivers regarding the regulations governing number plates on the road.
What are the regulations for number plates?
In the UK, number plates must adhere to the guidelines set by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for vehicle operators. The following measures should be followed:
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 allowed.
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? While the DVLA has not explicitly prohibited the use of 4D number plates, there is some practical resistance.
The police explain that although there is no specific law against using 4D number plates, the lettering and characters themselves should not obscure 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. While they are not explicitly banned, it is crucial to ensure that the plates do not make the registration number difficult to read from various angles. Stay informed and comply with the guidelines to avoid any issues while driving on British roads.
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