What Are 4D Number Plates?

4D number plates are a popular customisation options for many motorists, but what makes them popular? 

In this blog, we will explore the question ‘What are 4D number plates?’

With a thriving aftermarket industry, it’s no secret that vehicle owners want the best for their vehicles, whether it’s making it look the way they want it and/or making upgrades. Either way, having peace of mind is the most important factor, this can only be provided by established and trusted service providers like GoTints!

Are 4D number plates legal?

Are 4D number plates legal?

Yes, 4D number plates are legal to use on your vehicle, as long as they have been crafted by a legitimate provider. As long as your 4D plate follows the rules as set by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)  highlighted below, it is entirely legal to use:

Number plate requirements:

  • The entire plate must be made from a reflective material. The front plate must have a white background, and the rear plate must have a yellow background.   
  • The characters must be one shade of solid black and not be removable or reflective. Two-tone or other coloured effects are not permitted for the characters themselves.   
  • The plate must not have any background patterns or designs.   
  • The plate must clearly display the name and postcode of the Registered Number Plate Supplier (RNPS) at the bottom centre. It should also include the trademark or name of the plate manufacturer and the British Standard number.   
  • Plates fitted after September 1, 2021, must be marked with ‘BS AU 145e’. Plates fitted before this date should have ‘BS AU 145d’.   

Number plate character requirements:

    • The characters must use the standard ‘Charles Wright’ font.   
  • The size must adhere to the following:
  • Height: 79mm
  • Width: 50mm (except for the number ‘1’ or letter ‘I’, which may be narrower)   
  • Stroke (thickness): 14mm
  • The spacing required is:
  • Between characters: 11mm
  • Between the two groups of characters (e.g., the year identifier and the random letters): 33mm
  • A minimum margin of 11mm is required at the top, bottom, and sides of the registration number.

What’s the law on 4D plates?

The DVLA permits the use of raised characters, which is the defining feature of 4D plates. These are typically laser-cut acrylic letters bonded to the plate. The raised characters must be solid black. Clear or coloured parts within the raised characters are illegal.   

The raised characters should not create a highlighting or other 3D effect beyond their actual physical depth.   

To read the full details, click here.

What exactly is a 4D number plate?

A 4D number plate is an aftermarket customisation for a front and rear number plate, for cars, vans, and as a decoration. 

The ‘4D’ part comes from the fact that they are a variant on the already existing 3D number plates. The difference between them is in their manufacturing, 4D plates use laser cut acrylic which is attached to the plate. This results in distinctly sharp characters that ‘pop out’ from the plate.

3D plates differ as they are made with a polyurethane gel resin, resulting in rounded characters that protrude slightly from the plate. 

Are 4D plates in special fonts?

Not exactly, although the characters are shaped nominally different for both 3D and 4D plate, 4D plates are not designed with a unique font. 

This is due to UK number plate laws which require consistent legibility of the plate, which will change with an introduction of many different fonts. 

Are 4D plates a show plate?

It should be highlighted that 4D number plates are legal as long as they fall into specific parameters, anything beyond those parameters makes them a show plate. Show plates are not legal to use on vehicles that are being driven on public roads. 

Any competent and professional plate provider will clearly ensure the use of your plate before creating it, legal plates must stay within legal limits. Whilst, show plates have no limit due to the fact that they are not made for use as an actual number plate. 

How long does a 4D number plate installation take?

How long does a 4D number plate installation take?

 The installation process for a 4D number plate can generally take less than an hour. However, this depends on a few external factors, which include:

  • The current workload of the workshop.
  • If you haven’t ordered your plate for creation in advance.
  • If your vehicle has extensive custom body work (it may affect the way the plate can be attached).
  • The kind of plate attachment you require (sticky pads, screws, number plate holder etc).

Do I have to maintain my 4D number plate?

Of course, because of the elevated characters, dirt and dust can easily catch in these pockets of space. Maintenance isn’t extensive and only requires a light scrub and wash occasionally. 

Ceramic coating, or number plate specific equivalents can also be applied to add a hydrophobic element to the plate. But you should check with the plate provider before attempting this. 

Where can I get 4D plates?

4D number plates can be obtained via plate manufacturers, you should always go with plate providers who are legally certified, like Go-Tints.

At Go-Tints, we craft stunning 4D number plates that are more than just a requirement – they’re a statement. Our premium, laser-cut acrylic characters create a bold and dynamic look that will truly make your car stand out from the crowd.

But it’s not just about looks. We’re so confident in the quality of our 4D plates that we back them with a full 1-Year Warranty. This means you can drive with complete peace of mind, knowing your investment is protected against bubbling, reflective layer peeling, and fading

Imagine your vehicle sporting these eye-catching, durable plates, adding a touch of personalised flair wherever you go. 

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond the product itself. We use only top-tier materials and cutting-edge manufacturing to ensure flawless plates that not only meet but exceed expectations. And all of this is backed by our experienced staff with collective decades worth of experience under their belts. 

Choosing Go-Tints means investing in quality, style, and reliability. It’s about adding that extra touch of class to your vehicle with the confidence that we’ve got you covered. Upgrade your ride today with Go-Tints 4D number plates – where durability meets distinction.

Purchase 4D number plates today

At GoTints, we pride ourselves on providing a variety of expert services for vehicle owners. This includes repair, customisation, and personalisation! Our services include PPF, Privacy glass, vehicle wrapping, and car detailing, 

In this blog, we hope to have provided insight towards the question ‘What are 

4D number plates?’

Are you looking for car customisation providers that have a variety of options, years of experience, and competitive pricing? Contact Go Tints for expert advice and professional tinting services to provide your car with a flawless finish!

At GoTints, our expert services have been leading the way in customising, personalising and enhancing vehicles. Our team has 20 years of experiences, providing top-quality services in a wide area. This includes window tints, vehicle wrapping, paint protection film, alloy wheel refurbishment and repair. 

That’s not all, our services come with a lifetime warranty, we also collect and deliver your vehicle, and can provide a courtesy car if you need it! Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today to see how we can help you!

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