When it comes to number plates, most people focus on the style — 3D, 4D, gel, printed — but what about the legal bits? You might be surprised to learn that something as small as a missing supplier name or postcode could result in a fine or even an MOT failure.
Let’s break down the rules so you stay on the right side of the law.
✅ What Are the Legal Requirements for UK Number Plates?
To be road legal in the UK, number plates must meet the British Standard (BS AU 145e). This includes several key details, all of which must be printed on the plate:
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The supplier or manufacturer’s name
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The postcode of the supplier
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The British Standard number (currently BS AU 145e)
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Correct font, spacing, and size as per DVLA regulations
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A plate made from reflective, durable material
Failing to include any of these means your plate isn’t road legal — and yes, that includes the supplier name and postcode.
🚨 What’s the Risk if These Details Are Missing?
If your number plates are missing a supplier name or postcode, here’s what can happen:
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£100+ Fixed Penalty Notice if stopped by police
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MOT failure — even if the plate looks new
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Your vehicle could be flagged for having illegal modifications
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Issues with insurance or vehicle inspections
It’s a small detail with big consequences.
❓ Why Are Supplier Details Required?
The supplier name and postcode are used to trace where the plate was made. It helps reduce illegal plate production and vehicle cloning. It’s part of why only registered number plate suppliers (like us at Limitless Plates) can legally make road-legal plates.
🏁 Are Show Plates Exempt?
Yes — show plates or display plates are not meant for road use, so they don’t need to follow the same rules.
However, if you drive with a show plate on public roads, even for a short trip, you’re risking a fine.
Show plates:
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Can omit the supplier name/postcode
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Can use different fonts or colours
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Are for off-road use only — car meets, track days, photo shoots, etc.
✔️ How Limitless Plates Keeps You Legal
At Limitless Plates, we make it easy:
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All road legal plates include the correct supplier name, postcode, and BS number
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We follow all DVLA and British Standard rules
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You can still choose show plates — but we make it clear they’re not for road use
We’re fully registered and compliant, so you can shop with confidence.
💬 Final Thoughts
Missing details on your plate might seem like no big deal, but it could cost you. If you’re ever unsure whether a plate is legal or not, drop us a message — we’re always happy to help.
Need road-legal plates that look great and tick all the boxes?
👉 Order now from Limitless Plates
