[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Are 4D plates worth it? What are the advantages and disadvantages? We will cover everything you need to know in this in-depth article.
As we all know by now, 4D number plates are some of the most popular plate options in recent years. However, you might be asking yourself, “Are 4D plates worth it?” Are these pros and cons for you to consider before you go out and spend money on them?
We are going to go through what you need to know about 4D plates right here in this article. From what they are to if they are worth it and what you should know. We’ll even cover how to order some from our store if you want a pair for yourself!
At Number Plate Clinic, we look at 4D plate trends and predictions, and explore all the top reasons to upgrade your vehicle to 4D plates.
About 4D Number Plates

Our well-loved 4D plates are usually laser cut with acrylic and three-dimensional (the name is misleading, we know). This means that the characters stand out from the background rather than being flat like printed plates, so they will cast a shadow if light is directed at them.
4D plates are perfectly visible to cameras, ANPR, and ULEZ, and they are made using fully DVLA-compliant and legal materials – provided you get them from a registered seller like us. You will not fail your MOT unless you cut your plate down, don’t follow the 2024 private plate laws, or have carbon gel plates.
However, as getting these plates is considered a modification to your vehicle, you should declare them when doing your vehicle insurance. Any plate other than the standard printed plate should count as a modification, so always keep this in mind when looking at dimensional plates.
Are 4D Plates Worth It?

4D number plates are readily available and can be ordered from many different trusted online stores (like us). No matter where you are, we can get your road-legal plates to you quickly and easily, so you never have to miss out. At Number Plate Clinic, we aim for next day delivery on all plates ordered before 2pm.
Another notable feature that makes 4D plates worth it is how easy they are to install. We recommend using the double-sided sticky pads for installation so that you don’t need to drill any holes, and will always suggest using plate holders for some added security.
They Are Road-Legal in the UK
4D number plates are legal for road use in the UK as long as they follow the rules we’ll outline in a section below.
Although 4D plates are legal and there are no plans for them to become illegal, there have been cases where drivers have been wrongfully fined for having them. If you are fined for having 4D plates, we encourage you to dispute it and get the issue resolved if you are not in the wrong.
They Look Incredible
One of the top reasons for getting custom 4D plates is that they enhance your car’s look and are one of the best plates for high-end vehicles. As the best alternative to traditional plates, 4D number plates offer something new and exciting for any car owner.
4D plates are visually appealing, and stand out from the crowd no matter where you go. Anyone who knows one plate from another will look at you and recognise your choice, and you might just strike up a conversation or two in the process.
4D Plates Are Durable
Because of their design, 4D plates are notoriously durable and will last for many years to come. They also require less maintenance like cleaning due to the raised characters, so you’re less likely to be fined for having the registration obstructed.
Are There Any Disadvantages of 4D Plates?

Besides the fact that there have been rare cases of unfair fines for having 4D plates, the only disadvantage of them is the price. You can expect to pay between £70 to £165 for 4D plates, which is certainly at the higher end of the plate price point. For 3D gel plates, you will pay between £60 and £65, and standard plates cost just £30.
Keep Your Number Plates Legal By Following Government Guidelines

As we said, 4D plates are legal in the UK. However, this is only the case if you follow the rules and regulations set out by the government. These rules are in place to protect society and allow number plates to be read by cameras to track crimes and fines.
Below are the number plate regulations that will determine if a number plate is road legal or not:
- Not have reflective characters (letters, numbers)
- Not have removable characters (letters, numbers)
- Be made with a background of reflective material
- Have a plain background, with no pattern or distracting characteristics
- Front plates must have black characters on a white background
- Back/rear plates must have black characters on a yellow background
- Show who supplied the number plate (mark of provider is required)
- Have a British Standard number for any plates fitted after the first of September 2021
- Must have characters written in the Charles Wright 2001 font
- Can have raised characters (3D & 4D)
- Can display certain identifiers such as flags or symbols
The rules do beyond what can go on your number plate, and there are additional requirements around the spaces of the lettering on your plate that need to be followed:
- 50mm character width
- 79mm character height
- 14mm character thickness (stroke)
- 11mm space between characters
- 11mm side margins
- 11mm top and bottom margins
- 33mm between random numbers and age identifier
- 19mm of vertical space between random numbers and age identifier
These are not things that you need to worry about if you are getting your plates from a trusted plate provider like Number Plate Clinic. However, there will be plenty of shops that will offer plates that are advertised as DVLA-compliant when they are not. Because of this, we will always recommend that you do your research before selecting a plate provider.
How to Order Plates from Us
To order a number plate from us, you are going to need to input information such as your registration, the plate type you want (and how many), if you want legal or show plates, the type of fitting you want, and any additional notes.
To order any kind of number plate through us, follow these steps:
- Head to a trusted number plate provider, like us
- Input the necessary information we went through above
- Provide proof of vehicle ownership (V5C or V5CNI logbook, V5C/2 or V5C/2NI new keeper slip, or the V778 certificate)
- Provide a valid ID (utility bill, passport, or driving licence)
- Pay for the plate, and we’ll get it made!
As long as you can provide all the information that we need, the process will be quick and straightforward, and you can get your plate delivered to you in no time.
Get 4D Plates at Number Plate Clinic

4D number plates are attractive and modern, and are sure to turn heads wherever you go. However, they do come with a higher price tag that not everyone might be willing to pay for such a seemingly small modification. Ultimately, whether 4D plates are worth the money is a choice that only you can make, but there are advantages and disadvantages to consider on both sides.
At Number Plate Clinic, we answer all your burning questions. From why there is no Z in number plates and how to fit 4D plates to whether carbon gel plates are being replaced by 4Ds, we talk about it all. If you want to find out more, we have plenty for you to explore.
So, are 4D plates worth it? They absolutely are if you want to boost aesthetics and can deal with the price. As the best alternative to Halfords for all your plate needs, we would love to supply you with your new favourite modification, including 4D hex plates.
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