3D vs 4D Number Plates in the UK: The Complete 2025 Buyer’s Guide

Quick Comparison – What’s the Difference Between 3D and 4D Number Plates?

Looking for custom car number plates in the UK? You’ve probably seen 3D vs 4D number plates when searching for personalised number plates online. Both styles give your registration a raised, premium look, but they are not the same.

3D gel number plates use domed gel letters. They have a smooth, glossy finish and a slightly raised effect. They suit drivers who want something stylish but subtle.

4D acrylic number plates use laser-cut acrylic characters. These letters are blocky, sharp, and more defined. 4D plates stand out more and give your car a modern, aggressive style.

Both are fully road legal number plates in the UK if made to DVLA standards. Check our range of 3D and 4D number plates and try our number plate maker online to design yours today.

Are 3D and 4D Number Plates Legal in the UK?

Yes, 3D and 4D number plates are legal in the UK when they meet DVLA and BS AU 145e requirements.

Legal number plates must:

• Display solid black characters (no shading or colouring)
• Use the Charles Wright font
• Be clear and easy to read
• Meet British Standard BS AU 145e for durability and reflectivity

The DVLA allows raised letter number plates, meaning both 3D gel plates and 4D acrylic plates are legal if made correctly.

Always buy from a DVLA-registered number plate supplier like Official Plates.

Read the DVLA number plate rules to learn more.

Can You Fail an MOT With 3D or 4D Number Plates?

Yes, you can fail your MOT test if your number plates are:

• Broken or damaged
• Difficult to read
• Missing any characters

Both 3D and 4D number plates are MOT compliant when they meet UK legal standards. Dirty or damaged plates, or plates with missing letters, could fail your test.

We provide MOT legal number plates that pass all checks.

Best Choice: 3D vs 4D Plates for Different Car Styles

Which style suits your car best? Here are some ideas:

• Luxury vehicles: 3D gel plates add a subtle, premium look
• Sports cars: 4D acrylic plates give a bold, eye-catching effect
• Family cars: Either style works. 3D is sleek and neat; 4D is modern and strong

Explore custom number plates for every car type on our website.

4D Number Plates Thickness Guide: 3mm vs 5mm – Which Should You Choose?

When buying 4D licence plates online, you’ll see options for 3mm or 5mm raised letters:

• 3mm acrylic plates: Thin, clean and sharp
• 5mm acrylic plates: Thicker, bolder, and more noticeable

5mm 4D plates cost a bit more but stand out more on the road.

We sell both 3mm and 5mm 4D acrylic plates with fast UK delivery.

Do 4D Plates Attract Police Attention? Myths vs Reality

You might hear that 4D number plates attract police attention. This only happens if your plates are not legal.

Legal 4D plates must:

• Use the correct Charles Wright font
• Have solid black characters
• Be free of damage or missing parts
• Be correctly spaced as per DVLA documentation

If your plates meet these standards, they are DVLA approved and MOT legal. Police usually target illegal show plates, not compliant ones.

Get your plates from a trusted DVLA-approved number plate supplier like Official Plates.

How Much Do 3D and 4D Number Plates Cost in the UK?

Wondering how much 3D and 4D number plates cost in the UK? Here are average prices:

• 3D gel plates: from £50 to £70 per pair
• 4D 3mm plates: from £70 to £90 per pair
• 4D 5mm or layered styles: from £90 to £150 per pair

We offer affordable custom number plates online with quick UK delivery.

How to Maintain Your 3D or 4D Number Plate (And Make It Last Longer)

To keep your raised letter number plates looking good and MOT compliant:

• Clean with mild soap and water
• Avoid pressure washing directly on the letters
• Use a soft cloth, not rough sponges
• Check regularly that letters stay attached

Well-maintained plates stay road legal and look better for longer.

Why Cheap 3D/4D Plates Might Cost You More in the Long Run

Beware of cheap 3D and 4D number plates online. Low-cost plates often:

• Use weak adhesive that makes letters fall off
• Have incorrect spacing or fonts, making them illegal
• Miss the BS AU 145e legal mark

Protect yourself by buying legal number plates UK from trusted suppliers. See our DVLA approved plates.

What to Check Before You Buy: Ensuring Your Plates Are DVLA & MOT Compliant

Before buying private number plates or personalised plates online, check:

• They show the supplier’s name and BSAU 145e mark
• The letters are solid black
• The spacing meets DVLA rules

We ask for your V5C logbook and ID to confirm your order is legal and MOT compliant. Order your legal plates online today.

Best Online Retailers for Verified DVLA-Compliant 3D and 4D Plates (2025 Update)

Here are the best places to buy number plates online in the UK:

• Official Plates – Browse our full range of DVLA legal number plates.
• Halfords number plates – Sells basic 3D and 4D plates but not in stores.
• Other DVLA-approved suppliers – Check they require ID and supply legal plates.

Avoid sellers who let you buy plates without ID. They may be selling illegal show plates.

Final Thoughts: Should You Go 3D or 4D?

Still deciding between 3D vs 4D plates?

• Choose 3D gel plates for a smooth, professional look.
• Choose 4D acrylic plates for sharp, bold lettering that stands out.

Both styles are legal, MOT compliant, and available online at Official Plates. Order your custom plates now with fast UK delivery.