The Rules of Personalised Number Plates

If you're considering purchasing a personalised number plate, then you’ll want to know where to start. 

Whether you want to incorporate a family name, a nickname or memorable date, there are literally millions of personalised number plates gracing the UK’s roads. 

Most are displayed on used cars, but you’ll be surprised at just how many are bought as an investment or show item and are never actually fitted to a car. 

You can purchase a personalised registration for your vehicle from the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) or a private broker/dealer. If you’re already in possession of a personalised number plate that isn’t in use, then you can apply to have it assigned to your vehicle. 

What are the rules of displaying personalised number plates?

It’s important to ensure you follow the rules when it comes to using a personalised number plate on your vehicle. These include:

• Displaying letters and numbers in a standardised font - italics are not allowed.
• Not using the bolt fixtures to alter the appearance of letters or numbers.
• Making sure each character measures 79mm in height and 50mm in width - the only exception being the number ‘1’ or letter ‘I’.
• Letters and numbers must appear in black print and the stroke of each character should be 14mm. 
• Spacing between each character needs to be 11mm, as with the margins around each of them. 
• Not using numbers that insinuate the vehicle is newer than it actually is. 
• Avoiding using certain letters, such as ‘Q’ which is reserved for kit cars or custom vehicles. 

Not following these rules could land you with a telling off from police, a fine of up to £1,000, and even have your personalised number plate confiscated if you are caught. 

What can you do to further personalise a private number plate?

Whilst there are many don’ts when it comes to displaying a personalised number plate, there is also a list of can-do's when it comes to showing off a private plate. They are:

• Combining 3D or 4D text to help make the characters stand out. 
• Adding a border to your personalised number plate, as long as it isn’t reflective, distracting to other motorists, and does not come into contact with the letters or numbers.
• Using it as a way of marketing to promote your business or brand.  

Make sure you engage with an official UK registered number plate supplier when it comes to purchasing a personalised number plate, as they will be able to ensure your choice is legal and roadworthy. 

Is it time for a new or used car?

If you’re looking for a new, nearly new or used car to display a personalised number plate, then you’ve come to the right place! 

Here at Wilsons Epsom, we’re proud to represent 11 new car brands - Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Jeep, Hyundai, Nissan, Nismo, Peugeot, MG, Renault and Dacia - as well as stocking over 1,000 nearly new and used cars on site or online.

We are the largest family-run new and used car supermarket in the South of England. Visit us in person or online to find out why thousands of customers choose us for their next new or used car.