Millions of drivers across the UK are being urged to check their new vehicles immediately, as a subtle change to number plates could result in a staggering £1,000 fine.
The latest '24' plate, released in March, and the upcoming '74' plate, due in September, feature a new mandatory 'E' mark. This tiny identifier signifies that the plate meets the new British Standard for tougher, more reflective materials, but getting it wrong has serious financial consequences.
The Hidden Cost of a Non-Compliant Plate
According to the DVLA, any vehicle registered after September 1st, 2021, must be fitted with number plates that meet the new BS AU 145e standard. The presence of the circled 'E' on the plate is the visual proof of this compliance.
"The number plates on your vehicle must meet the standards for displaying them," state official government guidelines. Failure to have the correct 'E' mark is not just a minor infraction; it is a direct breach of these standards and makes your vehicle illegal for road use.
Beyond the 'E': Other Pitfalls to Avoid
While the 'E' mark is the latest concern, motoring experts are reminding drivers that all the traditional rules still apply with severe penalties. The £1,000 fine can also be triggered by:
- Incorrect Fonts: Using non-standard fonts, such as italics, is strictly prohibited.
- Poor Spacing: Improperly spaced characters that make the registration hard to read.
- Illegal Materials: Fitting number plates made from non-reflective materials.
- Dirty Plates: Driving with plates that are obscured by dirt, making them illegible.
"The rules are clear and must be followed by all drivers," a government spokesperson emphasised. "It is important that number plates are clean and readable from a distance to help ensure vehicles can be traced if they are stolen or involved in a crime."
How to Ensure You're Driving Legally
To avoid joining the thousands of drivers hit with fines each year, always ensure your number plates are purchased from a DVLA-registered supplier. These certified vendors guarantee that their products meet all legal requirements, including the correct font, spacing, material, and the all-important 'E' mark.
Before driving a new car off the forecourt or after purchasing replacement plates, take a moment to inspect them. A quick check for the small circled 'E' could be the difference between a trouble-free journey and a costly penalty.
