UK Legal Number Plates and Car Security: What you Need to Know

Number Plate theft is a growing headache for drivers across the UK. Stolen or Cloned Plates are often used in more serious crimes, leaving innocent vehicle owners to deal with the fallout - from unfair fines to legal hassles.

But why are Number Plates such a target, and what can you do to protect your vehicle's identity.

Why are Number Plates a Target?

Many people don't realise that Number Plates are becoming an increasingly popular target for criminals. They target Number Plates for a variety of different illegal activities, such as:

  • Vehicle Cloning - Copying plates from an identical vehicle to disguise a stolen car.
  • Evading Charges - Using stolen plates to avoid speeding fines, parking tickets, congestion charges and tolls.
  • Fuel Theft - Attaching stolen plates before driving off from petrol stations without paying.
  • Disguising Crime Vehicles - Using different plates on cars involves in burglaries, robberies, or other serious offences to hinder police tracking.

The consequences for the victim can be severe, including receiving unwarranted fines, having to prove their innocence, facing repeated police stops, and even potentially seeing insurance premiums rise.

How to Boost your Number Plate Security

While no method offers absolute protection, making your plates harder to steal is a significant deterrent against thieves.

1. Anti-Theft Screws and Bolts - Replacing standard screws with security versions is one of the most recommended physical deterrents. These include:

  • One way screws
  • Tamper proof screws
  • Locking bolts

2. Secure Number Plate Holders and Frames - Some frames offer more than just aesthetics. Secure designs may use hidden latches, special clip, or require unique tools/keys for removal, making it difficult for thieves to quickly pop the plate out. Ensure any holder doesn't obscure the plate characters and markings.

3. High-Strength Adhesive Pads - Good quality double sided adhesive pads create a strong bond, making the plate difficult to pry off without causing damage. In fact, the current British Standard for Number Plates (BSAU 145e) recommends using adhesive pads. Many opt to combine high strength pads with anti-theft screws for maximum security.

Our fitting kits contain everything you will need to protect your Number Plates from theft including double sided adhesive pads and anti-theft screw caps.

What should you do if your Number Plates are Stolen?

If your plates are stolen, you should:

1. Report to the Police - Contact the Police immediately and get a Crime Reference Number.

2. Inform DVLA - Notify them in writing. If it's a private registration that's been stolen, apply to retain it using a V317 form.

3. Tell your insurer - Inform your insurance company about the theft.

4. Replace your Number Plates - You will need new plates to be able to use your car again

5. Monitor for Fines - Keep an eye out for any penalties you receive and dispute them using your crime reference number.