Why You Need a Standard Number Plate

UK law demands that every driver must have a standard number plate if driving on UK roads. Driving without a clear, compliant plate can result in fines, MOT issues, and even invalidate your insurance.

Here’s why keeping your number plate in good condition is essential:

• Stay on the right side of the law: The DVLA enforces strict rules on font, spacing, and visibility. Our standard plates are built to meet BS AU 145e regulations, meaning they’re road compliant and you won’t run into any trouble with the DVLA.
• Pass your MOT first time: Worn, cracked, or missing plates are a common reason for MOT failures. Replacing yours means your car won’t be tripped up by something so simple.
• Be recognised by ANPR systems: Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras are used across the UK for tolls, parking, and policing. A plate that can’t be read properly could land you in trouble.
• Link your car to your records: From your insurance to your logbook, your plate is what ties your car to you. Keeping it clear and compliant protects you if you ever need to make a claim or sell your vehicle.

What’s Included with Our Standard Plates

Aside from the legal requirement of needing a number plate to drive in the UK, with Great Plates, you’re also getting:

Fully road compliant:

• Certified to BS AU 145e standards for durability and reflectivity
• Uses the official Charles Wright font, as required by law
• Correct spacing, sizing, and colouring for DVLA approval
• Supplier details and British Standard markings included

Designed and printed in our workshop:

• Made from tough, weather-resistant materials
• Won’t peel, fade, or crack over time
• Clear reflective surface for safer driving at night
• Each plate carefully finished for a sharp, professional look

Custom options (that are still road compliant):

• Add a coloured border for a personalised finish
• Choose a national flag (England, Scotland, Wales, GB)
• Eco-friendly Enviro Plates available, made with recycled materials

*Customisation options are optional, you don’t have to use them!

Plates take a lot of wear and tear. Maybe yours has cracked in a car park, started to fade in the sun, or has come loose and disappeared completely. Whatever the cause, driving without a clear and compliant plate is against the law. 

If your plate can’t be read properly, you could face a fine, fail your MOT, or even get stopped on the road.

Signs it’s time to replace your plate

Keep an eye out for these common problems. If you notice any of them, it’s best to order a replacement straight away:

• Cracks or missing pieces – Even a small break can make your plate unreadable.
• Faded or peeling letters – Over time, sun, rain, and road grit will wear plates down.
• Illegible characters – If ANPR cameras or MOT testers can’t read your plate, it isn’t legal.
• Incorrect spacing or missing markings – Plates that don’t follow DVLA rules need replacing.

What happens if you don’t replace it

It’s tempting to put it off, but driving with a damaged or missing plate comes with real consequences:

• MOT failure – A faulty plate means an automatic fail.
• Hefty fines – You could be charged up to £1,000.
• Police stops – If your plate isn’t readable, you’re more likely to be pulled over.
• ANPR issues – Parking systems, toll roads, and enforcement cameras rely on plates being clear.

FAQs 

Do I need documents to order a plate?

No. Because we’re based in the Channel Islands, you don’t need to provide paperwork like a V5C logbook. You can order quickly and easily using our online builder.

Can I order just one plate instead of a pair?

Yes. You can order a single front plate, a single rear plate, or a full set depending on what you need.

How long does delivery take?

We offer Express 1-2 Day UK Delivery if you need your plates quickly, or our standard 3-5 day service if you’re not in a rush.

Are your plates fully road compliant?

Yes. All our standard plates meet BS AU 145e regulations, use the correct Charles Wright font, and include supplier details and the British Standard code.

Can I customise a standard plate?

Within DVLA rules, yes. You can add a legal border or choose from national flags (GB, England, Scotland, or Wales). For something more creative, you might want to look at our show plate options.