What to Do When Your Number Plates Are Stolen

Having your number plates stolen can be stressful and unfortunately, it happens more often than you might think. Thieves often target plates to clone vehicles, commit traffic offences, or avoid detection by using your registration on another car.

The good news? If you act quickly, you can protect yourself from fines and future headaches. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do if your number plates are stolen, how to prevent it from happening again, and how to easily order replacements when you’re ready to get back on the road.

How to Avoid Having Your Number Plates Stolen

While you can’t always stop determined thieves, there are plenty of easy ways to make your plates far less appealing and harder to remove. Here are a few practical tips:

Use anti-theft screws

These specially designed screws make it almost impossible for thieves to remove your plates using standard tools. You can usually pick them up cheaply online.

Park smart

Whenever possible, park in well-lit, busy, or secure areas, especially overnight. Thieves are far less likely to target a car in plain view or one covered by CCTV.

Regularly check your plates

A quick look at your plates every few days can help you spot loose screws, damage, or tampering before it becomes a bigger issue.

Consider tamper-proof options

If you want extra protection, opt for tamper-resistant plate fixings or bonded fittings using strong adhesive pads. These make it much harder to remove your plates without breaking them.

Avoid custom bolts or novelty fixings

While they might look stylish, some can make it easier for thieves to remove your plates quickly. Stick with DVLA-approved fixings wherever possible. Taking a few small steps now can save you a lot of hassle later, and ensure your plates stay right where they belong.

Can I Drive My Car If My Number Plates Have Been Stolen?

In short, no, you can’t legally drive without number plates.

If your plates have been stolen, your vehicle is considered unidentifiable on the road, which means driving it could result in fines, penalty points, or even the police seizing your vehicle.

Here’s what to do instead:

• Report the theft immediately – Call the police’s non-emergency number (101) to report your stolen plates. You’ll be given a crime reference number, which you should keep safe.
• Notify the DVLA – Let them know your plates were stolen, especially if you suspect they could be cloned.
• Inform your insurer – If a cloned version of your vehicle is caught committing offences, you’ll want proof that you reported the theft.

Once the theft has been reported, don’t drive your car until you’ve replaced your number plates. It’s not just about legality. Having no plates could also invalidate your insurance..

How to Replace Stolen Number Plates

Once you’ve reported the theft, your next step is to order a new set of plates.

At Plate Mate, we make it as easy and stress-free as possible:

1. Go to our Plate Builder – Choose your plate type (standard, 3D, 4D, etc.) and customise the design to match your vehicle.
2. Select your delivery option – We offer Express 1 – 2 Day UK Delivery if you need your replacement quickly.
3. No paperwork required – Unlike other suppliers, we don’t ask for documents. Just design, buy, and we’ll handle the rest.

While you’re at it, you might consider upgrading to anti-theft fixings or stronger adhesive pads to help prevent future thefts. Once fitted, your new plates will be fully DVLA and MOT compliant.

Stay Protected with Plate Mate

Having your number plates stolen can be a real headache! From the hassle of reporting it to worrying about potential cloning or fines. But once you’ve taken the right steps, replacing your plates doesn’t have to add more stress.

At Plate Mate, we make it quick and simple to get back on the road. All our number plates are DVLA and MOT compliant, crafted to last, and available with Express 1 – 2 Day UK Delivery so you’re never stuck waiting around.

Need replacements fast? Or maybe you’d like to upgrade to something a little smarter, like 3D or 4D plates? Whatever you choose, you can build your new plates online in minutes.

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