How to Design Custom Number Plates Online (Step-by-Step Guide)

Looking to design custom number plates online? Whether you’re after a clean printed plate or something that really stands out like a 3D gel or 4D acrylic number plate, Official Plates makes it simple to design, customise, and order DVLA-compliant number plates from the comfort of your home.

📐 Step 1: Pick the Right Size or Shape

Not all vehicles need standard plates. We also stock:

• Short Number Plates
• Square 4×4 Number Plates
• Hex Number Plates
• Import Plates for JDM and US Vehicles
• Bike Number Plates
• Curved Rear Number Plates

If you’re unsure, start on our Shop by Size page to find the best fit.

🛠️ Step 2: Choose Your Number Plate Style

Once you’ve picked the right size, it’s time to choose your style. We offer:

• 3D Gel Number Plates – Glossy, domed characters
• 4D Gel Number Plates – Bold, laser-cut acrylic with gel finish
• 4D Acrylic Number Plates – Sharp, raised lettering
• 4D Retro Plates – Classic look with modern build
• Printed Number Plates – Clean, legal, and simple

All our plates are BS AU 145e compliant and MOT-ready, ensuring you stay legal on UK roads.

🎨 Step 3: Customise Your Plate

You can customise:

• Character Spacing – We will space registration number as per DVLA documentation, by default. Changing the spacing may make your plate a “show plate” and not fully road legal. Show plates can only be used on private land or at shows.
• Legal Flags – Add a UK, GB, Scottish, or Welsh or Electric badge. For travel to Europe, see our Driving from UK to Europe Number Plate Rules.
• Borders – Add clean or bold outlines.
• Fitting Options – Choose sticky pads, screws, or plate holders.

📄 Step 4: Documentation After Purchase

After you place your order, we’ll contact you to request the required documents. Plates will not be made until we receive the correct documentation.

Learn what you’ll need in our Required Documentation Guide.

🚚 Step 5: Fast UK Delivery

If we receive the correct documents before 2pm, your plates can be dispatched the same working day. Standard delivery takes 2-3 working days, or you can upgrade at checkout to 1-2 working day delivery.

✅ Why Choose Official Plates?

• DVLA-registered supplier
• BS AU 145e compliant plates
• Custom styles, shapes, and legal options
• Fast production and UK-wide delivery
• 12-month warranty on all plates
• Expert support if you need help

Start your design today by exploring Number Plates by Style or Number Plates by Size.