Are Short Number Plates Legal?

With the ever evolving world of Number Plates, it can sometimes be difficult to keep up with the vast variety of options. DWDPLATES are a registered DVLA Number Plate Supplier, we have been around for years and we specialise in everything number plate related. We’re here to guide you through your Number Plate journey whether you’re looking for a Private Reg, or even a Short Number Plate, we have it all. The topic of short number plates can be confusing, but we’re here to keep it short and simple!

In this blog, we’ll answer the question that remains, ‘Are Short Number Plates Legal In The UK?’

To keep it short, yes. Short Number plates are fully road legal & MOT compliant as long as they are manufactured correctly!

What Is A Short Number Plate?

Shortened number plates, otherwise known as Short Plates, as the name suggests, are simply number plates that have been reduced in length or size. Short Reg Plates offer a sleek and minimalistic aesthetic which stands out from standard sized plates, especially appealing to those who are looking for a more streamlined appearance for their vehicle. The biggest advantage of these plates is the uniqueness, it is not often you see a vehicle with a shortened plate. After all, if you’ve paid for a Private Reg which features less digits, why not utilise it? Some registrations can be as short as 3 digits. DWDPLATES also specialise in Private Regs with the option for short registrations!

A standard size number plate in the UK is 520mm (20.5 Inch) long by 111mm tall, some vehicles feature a larger rear plate, slightly bigger at 533mm x 285mm. These are typically found on the likes of Jaguars and Range Rovers. With short plates, the 3 most common sizes are 18 Inch, 16 Inch & 13 Inch.

Are Short Number Plates Legal In 2023?

Short plates are 100% Road Legal & MOT Compliant as long as they are manufactured correctly. It’s important to purchase your number plates from a DVLA registered seller, such as DWDPLATES. Registered Plate Suppliers are trained on the ins and outs of number plate legality. Short Number Plates must meet font type, size and character spacing requirements which are laid out by the BNMA. Due to the complexity of manufacturing number plates, there is a misconception that short plates are illegal, which is incorrect. We are a DVLA Registered Manufacturer and we follow these standards very closely, you can be sure that any Number Plate you purchase from us, whether it’s a full sized plate, or extra short plate, will be manufactured to the correct standard (with the exception of show plates). You must ensure that you carry out due diligence and purchase from a trusted seller, if you display an illegally manufactured Plate, you may be liable for fines.

Why Should I Buy A Shortened Number Plate?

When shopping for your next number plate, you may wonder, why should I choose a Short Number Plate? The reasons for choosing a short plate are vast. Motorists are opting for Short Regs more and more as they are unique and minimalistic. Many enthusiasts do not like the full size length of number plates, they can be overwhelming for some. Here is a list of possible reasons for choosing a set of Short Plates:

• Short Registration, i.e. XXX XXX, XX XXX, or XX X
• Vehicle Restraints i.e. Lamborghini Plates
• Unique Customisation Option
• Minimalistic Vehicle Look
• Cut To Registration Size

Below, the difference between Short Reg Plates and Standard Sized Plates are shown. It’s important to note that not every registration is compatible with Short Plates. Some registrations are restricted to full size 20.5 Inch Plates. When purchasing a number plate, you will be asked for legal documentation to prove your identity and your rights to use a registration. If you are not asked, this should be a red flag and you should immediately avoid this seller. If you are found to be driving with illegal number plates, you can find yourself in trouble with a hefty fine to pay! Here is a list of the documents you may be asked to provide.

13 Inch 3D Gel Plate Vs 20.5 Inch 3D Gel Plate

How Do I Order Short Plates?

DWDPLATES make the process of ordering a number plate easy and seamless, the process is as follows:

1. Head to the DWDPLATES website.
2. Browse our various number plate styles, such as 3D Gel Plates & 5D Gel Plates. Select the plate style you want in our shop section.
3. Enter Your Registration in the box provided, your number plate will be manufactured to this exact specification.
4. Once selected, you are able to choose custom options, such as tinting, custom sizing and even legality options.
5. Select preferred optional accessories such as our Number Plate Key Rings and Number Plate Sticky Pads.
6. Check out using our trusted and secure payment methods. We offer PayPal, Credit Card, Debit Card & even Klarna!

In Summary:

• Shortened Number Plates, are reduced in size, often to 16 Inch or 13 Inch Size
• Short Custom Number Plates are Road Legal & MOT Compliant
• Only Purchase Number Plates from Registered Sellers such as DWDPLATES.
• Short Number Plates are great for Private Registrations, or as a unique minimalistic option.