4D Number Plate FAQs
Are 4D number plates legal in the UK?
Yes. 4D number plates are legal in the UK provided they comply with DVLA regulations and are manufactured to BS AU 145e standards. This includes using the correct font, character spacing, margins, and layout.
What size are 4D number plates?
4D number plates are most commonly supplied in the standard UK size of 520 × 111mm. Other DVLA-compliant sizes may be available where permitted, depending on the vehicle type and the length of the registration.
What is the difference between 3D gel and 4D number plates?
3D gel plates use raised gel characters applied to the plate surface, giving a domed, glossy finish.
4D plates use precision-cut solid acrylic characters, resulting in a sharper, more defined, and modern appearance with clean edges.
Can all designed plates be upgraded to 4D?
Yes. All designed plates can be upgraded to a 4D style, provided the characters and digits fit correctly within the size of the plate chosen and the final layout remains compliant.
During the design process, spacing and sizing are checked to ensure the plate is suitable for a 4D upgrade.
Can 4D plates be made as short plates?
Yes. Short or reduced-size 4D plates may be available for registrations with fewer characters, provided DVLA spacing and margin rules are followed.
Are 4D plates checked during MOTs or ANPR checks?
Yes. Number plates may be checked during MOT inspections and by ANPR systems for legibility, spacing, and compliance. Correctly manufactured and fitted 4D plates that meet DVLA rules are suitable for road use.
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Premium 4D Laser Cut Number Plates
Our 4D plates feature precision laser-cut acrylic characters individually mounted to create maximum depth and definition. Each character is 3mm thick, delivering a bold, modern appearance while maintaining full DVLA compliance and road legality.
High Quality 4D Number Plates UK
Premium Plates specialises in manufacturing premium 4D number plates that combine striking visual impact with full legal compliance. Our 4D laser cut plates feature individually mounted acrylic characters that create a pronounced three-dimensional effect, offering the most dramatic raised appearance available while remaining fully road legal and DVLA approved. With over 27,000 satisfied customers and a 4.9-star rating, we're a trusted supplier of premium 4D laser cut plates across the UK.
Are 4D Number Plates Legal?
Yes, our 4D number plates are completely road legal when manufactured to DVLA specifications. All our 4D plates comply with British Standard BS AU 145e and DVLA regulations, featuring correct character dimensions, spacing, and overall plate sizing. The 3mm thickness of our 4D characters creates a dramatic raised effect without compromising legibility or compliance, making them suitable for MOT testing and everyday road use.
4D Plate Sizes & Manufacturing
Our 4D number plates are available in standard UK sizes, with 520×111mm being the most common format for front and rear car plates. For vehicles with shorter registrations, we offer reduced size 4D plates where DVLA spacing rules permit. The 3mm acrylic characters create a bold raised effect that's significantly more pronounced than 3D gel plates, with clean edges and sharp definition.
Each 4D plate is manufactured using advanced laser-cutting technology that ensures precision and consistency. High-grade acrylic sheets are laser-cut to exact character specifications, then individually positioned and mounted to the plate backing using professional-grade adhesives designed for automotive applications. The plate backing meets BS AU 145e standards with correct reflectivity and includes all legally required markings.
4D vs 3D Gel Plates
The key difference between 4D plates and 3D gel plates is the manufacturing method and resulting appearance. 4D plates use precision laser-cut solid acrylic characters that are individually mounted, creating sharp edges and maximum depth. 3D gel plates use polyurethane resin characters bonded directly to the surface, creating a smoother, more rounded appearance. Both options are fully road legal when manufactured correctly, with the choice coming down to personal preference - 4D offers a more defined, architectural look whilst 3D gel provides a glossy finish.
Durability & Adhesion
When professionally manufactured and properly mounted, 4D characters will not fall off under normal conditions. Our laser-cut acrylic characters are bonded using high-strength automotive adhesives specifically designed to withstand temperature variations, moisture, vibration, and UV exposure. The solid acrylic construction is UV-stabilised to prevent yellowing or fading, and the laser-cut edges are sealed and non-porous, preventing moisture ingress.
The solid acrylic maintains its shape and integrity across all UK weather conditions, remaining impact-resistant and able to withstand stone chips and minor knocks without cracking or breaking. Each plate undergoes quality control checks before dispatch to verify proper character mounting and adhesion. Our 3-year warranty covers any issues with character adhesion, appearance, or structural integrity.
ANPR & MOT Compatibility
Our 4D number plates are fully compatible with ANPR systems (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) when manufactured to correct specifications. The raised acrylic characters do not interfere with camera systems' ability to read the registration, as the character dimensions, spacing, and reflectivity all meet legal requirements. For MOT testing, our 4D plates meet all requirements - testers check for correct character height, spacing, reflectivity, and BS AU 145e markings, all of which our 4D plates include.
Fast Delivery & 3-Year Warranty
We offer same day dispatch on eligible orders placed before our daily cut-off time. Most 4D plates are produced and dispatched within 24-48 hours, with fast delivery options across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Orders over £60 qualify for free delivery.
Every 4D number plate is backed by our comprehensive 3-year warranty, covering manufacturing defects, character delamination, fading, and material deterioration under normal UK weather conditions. This extended warranty period reflects our confidence in the quality of our laser-cutting process and mounting techniques.
Fitting & Customisation
Installing 4D number plates follows the same process as fitting standard plates. The characters are permanently mounted during manufacturing, so simply mount the plates using appropriate fixings, ensuring they're securely attached and properly aligned. Distribute screw pressure evenly and avoid over-tightening. Clean regularly using mild soap and water, avoiding abrasive cleaners or high-pressure washing directly on the raised characters.
We offer various customisation options including short 4D plates for vehicles with shorter registrations (where DVLA spacing rules permit), and border options whilst maintaining legal compliance. All customisation options are carefully checked to ensure final plates remain road legal and compliant.
Why Choose Premium Plates for 4D?
We specialise in premium 4D laser-cut number plates with a focus on precision manufacturing, quality materials, and customer service. Our combination of advanced laser-cutting technology, professional mounting techniques, competitive pricing, and extended warranty makes us a preferred choice for drivers seeking 4D number plates UK. The 4.9-star rating from over 27,000 customers reflects our consistent commitment to quality. Every 4D plate is manufactured in-house where we control quality at every stage.