FAQs

Got questions about number plates?

This FAQ covers the most common questions about road-legal number plates, DVLA requirements, show plates, documentation needed, sizing, styles (3D/4D/4D Retro/5D), delivery and returns. As a DVLA registered number plate supplier, Driven Digits aims to keep things simple, compliant, and high quality—so you can order with confidence.



Are your number plates road legal?

Yes. All of our road-legal number plates are manufactured to fully comply with DVLA regulations and BS AU 145e standards, where selected. We are a registered number plate supplier, and all legal plates include the required supplier name, postcode, and British Standard marking.

What documents do I need to order road-legal number plates?

To produce road-legal plates, we are legally required to see:

  • Proof of identity (e.g. driving licence or passport)
  • Proof of entitlement to the registration (e.g. V5C logbook, V750 or V778)

These documents can be uploaded securely at checkout or provided after purchase.

Do you sell show plates?

Yes. We offer show plates which are intended for off-road use, car shows, photography, and private display only. Show plates do not require documentation but must not be used on public roads.

What is the difference between road-legal plates and show plates?

  • Road-legal plates comply with DVLA spacing, font, size, reflectivity, and markings.
  • Show plates allow for customisation such as altered spacing, tinted backgrounds, shortened sizes, or stylised fonts and are not road legal.


Are 3D, 4D, 4D Retro, and 5D plates legal?

Yes — when manufactured correctly.

  • 3D Gel plates can be road legal.
  • 4D (laser-cut) plates can be road legal.
  • 4D Retro / Bevelled plates can be road legal.
  • 5D plates may be road legal depending on specification.

All road-legal versions must meet DVLA rules on font, spacing, colour, reflectivity, and character height. Any non-compliant versions are sold as show plates only.

Do tinted number plates pass MOT?

Tinted plates may fail an MOT if they reduce visibility or reflectivity. For guaranteed compliance, we recommend standard reflective road-legal plates. Tinted plates are sold as show plates only unless stated otherwise.

Can custom number plates avoid ANPR cameras?

No. Any number plate that is designed to obscure, distort, or prevent ANPR reading is illegal. We do not sell plates designed to defeat ANPR systems.


Can I choose a shortened plate size?

Yes. We offer shortened plates, but Shortened plates are only road legal if spacing and margins remain compliant

  • Many shortened sizes are sold as show plates

If you’re unsure, we’re happy to advise before production.

Do your plates come with fittings?


Yes. All plates are supplied with:

  • Fixing pads
  • Screws and caps
    (Free with every order)

How long does it take to make and ship plates?

Most orders are manufactured within 1–2 working days. Shipping times vary depending on the delivery option selected at checkout.


Can I return custom number plates?


Because number plates are custom-made, we cannot accept returns unless:

  • The item is faulty
  • There is a manufacturing error on our part


Why do number plates need a supplier name and postcode?


This is a legal DVLA requirement for all road-legal plates. It ensures traceability and confirms that the plate was made by a registered supplier.


Why choose Driven Digits?

  • DVLA registered supplier
  • High-quality materials and precision cutting
  • Road-legal and show plate options
  • Trusted by car enthusiasts
  • UK made




Driven Digits is a UK registered number plate supplier providing road-legal and show plates in compliance with DVLA regulations. All legal plates are produced to BS AU 145e standards.