The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a stark warning to millions of motorists across the UK ahead of the new '75' registration plate release in September. Drivers are being urged to perform a crucial check to avoid potential fines of up to £1,000 and automatic MOT failures.
The alert centres on the legality of newly purchased number plates. The DVLA emphasises that simply ordering a new plate for your vehicle is not enough; it must be displayed correctly and meet specific legal standards to be considered road-legal.
The Essential Check Every Driver Must Make
According to the agency, the single most important step is to ensure your new plates are purchased from a DVLA-registered number plate supplier. These authorised suppliers are the only ones legally permitted to produce plates that meet the official standards.
"Number plates must be replaced if they are damaged, deteriorated, or illegible," a DVLA spokesperson stated. "But it is a legal requirement that number plates are bought from a DVLA-registered supplier."
Why This Matters: The Risks of Non-Compliance
Failing to use a registered supplier carries significant risks:
- Hefty Fines: Motorists caught with illegally displayed number plates face a maximum fine of £1,000.
- MOT Failure: Vehicles with non-compliant plates will instantly fail their MOT test, rendering them illegal to drive until the issue is resolved.
- Increased Scrutiny: Illegal plates can make your vehicle a target for police attention and automated number plate recognition (ANPR) camera systems.
How to Identify a Registered Supplier
The DVLA provides a straightforward way for drivers to verify a supplier's credentials. Before purchasing, you can use the official online search tool on the GOV.UK website to check if a company is registered. Reputable suppliers will also ask for original documents as proof of your name and address, and your vehicle’s V5C logbook.
This warning serves as a timely reminder for all drivers, whether they are upgrading to the new '75' plate or simply replacing old or damaged ones, to prioritise compliance and shop smart to avoid unnecessary penalties.
