With the onset of autumn comes the introduction of the ’73’ age identifier on number plates. This identifier, which follows the first two characters, will be seen on all vehicles registered from the 1st of September.
This ’73’ identifier will continue to appear until March next year when the ’24’ tag takes over. Preceding this was the ’23’ identifier launched last March.
Understanding its nuances is vital for those intrigued by the latest registration plates or simply curious about the UK’s number plate system. This ensures not just adherence to guidelines, including those about design, layout, and colours (violations of which can incur heavy fines), but also gives you a fun tidbit to flaunt in trivia games.
A Closer Look at UK Plates
The key identifier for this term is ’73’, marking vehicles registered between September 1, 2023, and March 1, 2024. As March rolls in, plates will transition to the ’24’ tag.
The core elements of a standard plate include:
- Two letters reflecting the registration region.
- A couple of digits showcasing the registration period.
- Three randomly chosen letters.
- From March to September, the year is displayed, whereas, from September onward, 50 is added to the year.
Forecast for 2030? Gear up for 30-plate cars in March and 80-plate ones in September.
Guidelines for Number Plates
Since January 1, 1973, vehicles must have a white plate in the front and a yellow one in the rear.
The design must adhere to specific criteria:
- Characters need to be 79mm in height and 50mm in breadth, except the number 1 or letter I.
- Each character’s stroke width stands at 14mm.
- Characters have a spacing of 11mm.
- 33mm separates the age tag and random letters.
- All edges have an 11mm margin.
- 19mm vertical space lies between age markers and random letters.
- Since 2001, the Charles Wright font has been mandatory.
If you’re replacing your number plates, ensure compliance with these rules.
Highlighting the Green Plate
Starting December 8, 2020, vehicles powered by electric or hydrogen fuel cells have the alternative to sport distinct ‘green number plates‘. This is signified by a green stripe on the plate’s left. It underlines the vehicle’s environment-friendly nature.
While not mandatory, many dealers incorporate them by default on new electric vehicles. These plates, as of now, don’t offer exclusive perks.
However, some have misused these plates for non-electric cars. This action is not only pointless but also illegal. It’s paramount to purchase plates from recognised sellers. Yet, a few manage to buy ‘show plates’ mimicking the original.
Personalised Number Plates
Customised plates enable specific character combinations. Purchase them from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency or, if they’re in circulation, secondary sources.
These can reflect names, special dates, or meaningful words, provided they aren’t deemed offensive. Tampering with plate layouts is illegal, with violations potentially costing £1,000 and revocation by the DVLA. It’s worth noting that some customisations are legal including 4d plates and 3d plates.
While you can make a car appear older via a plate, portraying it as newer than its actual age is forbidden.
Banned Number Plates
The DVLA evaluates new identifiers every March and September to exclude offensive combinations.
Terms promoting violence, discrimination, or anything deemed inappropriate are banned. Some plates, even if initially allowed, can be revoked later on. For instance, plates like BA22 ARD and CO22 ONA faced bans.
Historical Formats of Number Plates
Before 2001, various systems existed. From 1983-2001, yearly changes were marked by the first letter. For instance, ‘A’ signifies vehicles registered from August 1983 to July 1984. Prior to 1983, the identifier was at the end.
In Summary
- Number Plate’s Role: Unique vehicle identification and owner linkage.
- UK Plate Details: It discloses the vehicle’s age and first registration spot.
- Change Rate: New tags debut every March 1 and September 1.
- Necessity: Front plates are mandatory in the UK.
- Plate Value: It varies greatly, depending on its rarity or importance.
- UK’s Number Plate Procurement: Only buy from authorized dealers, especially when shopping online.
This guide sheds light on the intricacies of the UK’s number plate mechanics.
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