Are 3D and 4D Number Plates Legal in the UK?

Are 3D and 4D number plates legal or not? It seems like there is some confusion surrounding these unique plates that add a touch of flair to your vehicle. While the DVLA states that 3D gel and 4D plates are legal as long as they meet the British Standard for plates, there is still some ambiguity when it comes to the height at which the characters on these plates can protrude.

Many motorists, including London taxi drivers, have found themselves in hot water with the police for having characters on their 4D plates that stand out too far and are difficult to read. This has led to penalty notices being issued, leaving drivers scratching their heads about what the legal height limit actually is.

Regtransfers, the UK’s biggest independent number plate dealer, has taken a cautious approach by only supplying 4D plates with characters raised to 3mm, rather than the 5mm or 6mm that has reportedly caused issues with law enforcement. However, the lack of clear guidelines from official sources like the gov.uk hub leaves room for interpretation and confusion.

It’s clear that there is a need for more comprehensive information on the legality of 3D and 4D plates. While some manufacturers and dealers have attempted to fill this gap with their own resources, it would be ideal for the government to provide an official resource that dispels all doubt.

So, what are your thoughts on 3D and 4D plates? Do you love the unique look they add to your vehicle, or do you think they should be strictly regulated to ensure safety and readability? Share your opinion in the comments below and let’s start a conversation about this controversial topic.