How to Replace a Number Plate in the UK: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Replacing a number plate in the UK is straightforward. Whether yours is cracked, faded, stolen, or simply in need of an upgrade, you can order a legal replacement online in minutes. This guide walks you through exactly what you need, the process, and what the law requires.

When Do You Need to Replace a Number Plate?

You must replace your plates if they are:

• Cracked or broken — a cracked plate is an automatic MOT failure
• Faded or yellowed — plates that no longer meet BS AU 145e retroreflectivity standards are non-compliant
• Missing or stolen — driving without a number plate is illegal
• Displaying incorrect characters — any character damage making the plate unreadable is illegal
• Non-compliant — if you’ve bought a vehicle with illegal plates (wrong font, spacing, or colours), replace immediately

What Documents Do You Need?

Under DVLA regulations, every DVLA-registered supplier must verify two things before making plates:

1. Proof of identity — a valid photo ID: UK driving licence photocard, passport, or other government-issued photo ID
2. Proof of entitlement to the registration — one of: V5C logbook (showing your name and the registration), V5C/2 new keeper supplement, or a valid insurance certificate or MOT certificate showing the registration

You do not need to visit a shop. At Car Plates Pro, you upload photos of these documents securely during the online checkout process.

Step-by-Step: How to Replace a Number Plate Online

1. Go to Car Plates Pro — visit carplatespro.com
2. Enter your registration — type your reg and select your plate style (Standard, 3D Gel, 4D Laser-Cut, or 4D Gel)
3. Choose your size — standard car, motorcycle, or custom import size
4. Upload your ID and V5C — securely upload photos at checkout
5. Pay — we accept all major cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay
6. Receive and fit — dispatched same day if ordered before 2PM; arrives next working day

How Much Does a Replacement Number Plate Cost?

Style	Single Plate	Pair
Standard	From £6.99	From £13.98
3D Gel	From £9.99	From £19.98
4D Laser-Cut	From £9.99	From £18.00
4D Gel	From £13.99	From £23.00

All orders include free sticky pads. No hidden charges. Next working day delivery to 98% of UK addresses.

How to Fit Your Replacement Plates

Once your plates arrive, fitting takes about 5–10 minutes. See our full number plate fitting guide for step-by-step instructions using sticky pads or screws. In brief:

• Clean the bumper surface with isopropyl alcohol and allow to dry
• Peel the backing from the sticky pads and press firmly onto the bumper
• Hold for 30 seconds and leave for 24 hours for maximum adhesion

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace just one number plate?

Yes. You can order a single front or single rear plate. You do not have to replace both if only one is damaged. However, many drivers replace both at the same time for a matching finish — especially when upgrading from standard to 3D or 4D.

How long does it take to get replacement number plates?

Car Plates Pro dispatches same day on orders placed before 2PM Monday–Friday. Next working day delivery covers 98% of UK addresses. Order before 2PM today and your plates arrive tomorrow.

Do I need my V5C to get replacement number plates?

You need proof of entitlement to the registration. A V5C is the most common document, but alternatives include the V5C/2 new keeper supplement, a current MOT certificate, or insurance certificate showing the registration and your name.

Can I upgrade to 3D or 4D plates when replacing my standard plates?

Yes. When ordering replacements, you can choose any style — Standard, 3D Gel, 4D Laser-Cut, or 4D Gel. The identity and entitlement check is the same regardless of style chosen.

Related Reading

• Replacement Number Plates UK: Full Cost Guide
• How to Fit Number Plates: Step-by-Step
• Do You Need a Spare Number Plate?
• 3D Gel Number Plates Explained