Number Plate Mistakes That Will Fail Your MOT – and How to Avoid Them
If you’re Googling questions like “Will I fail my MOT with show plates?” or “Do custom licence plates pass MOT?”, remember: whether you call them number plates, licence plates, or registration plates, all must meet strict DVLA and MOT rules. Even small faults—dirty plates, DIY plates, or incorrect spacing—can lead to failure. This applies to all plate types, including standard acrylic plates, private registration plates, 3D gel /4D laser-cut plates, and plates used on motorcycles and vans.
Common Number Plate Mistakes That Cause MOT Failure
Cracked, Chipped, or Damaged Plates
Visible damage such as cracks or peeling reflectivity disrupts readability for both testers and ANPR cameras. Even minor damage can cause failure.
Faded or Discoloured Characters
Characters that fade to grey or yellow plates that lose vibrancy reduce clarity. Clean, high-contrast plates are essential.
Dirty or Obscured Plates
Grime, mud, or debris can obstruct vital characters. Several MOT failures stem from visibility issues, so always wash plates before your test.
Incorrect Spacing, Font, or Styling
Search terms like “Will spaced number plates fail MOT?” return a clear answer: yes. Only the Charles Wright font is legal, with exact spacing of 11 mm between characters and 33 mm between groups. No italics or decorative fonts are allowed.
Missing BS AU 145e Marking and Supplier Details
All number plates (since Sept 2021) must display the BS AU 145e standard mark (bottom right) and have the supplier’s name and postcode printed in the centre bottom. Plates lacking these are essentially “show plates” and not road legal.
Fixings Too Close to Characters
Fasteners placed within 10 mm of characters can obscure them or confuse ANPR scanning. Always mount fixings at an appropriate distance to prevent failure.
Loose or “Stuck-On” Plates
Plates must be securely affixed using approved fixings. Adhesive-only or loose attachments can lead to MOT failure or legal issues.
Illegal Flags, Backgrounds, or Tints
Only allowed flags are the Union Jack, Cross of St George, Cross of St Andrew, and Red Dragon. Tints, patterns, and reflective embellishments are strictly prohibited.
Non-Approved or Banned Plate Designs
DVLA disallows certain plate combinations for being offensive, political, or in poor taste. Even altering spacing or font on similar patterns can make a plate illegal and subject to fines or refusal.
DIY or Self-Made Plates
Some drivers attempt to make their own plates. However, to be legal, plates must meet BS AU 145e, include supplier details, and be printed onto approved reflective material—not just look correct. Homemade plates often fail on much closer inspection.
DVLA Number Plate Rules You Must Follow in 2025
- Use the correct font (Charles Wright) and spacing.
- Ensure black characters on a white front plate and yellow rear plate.
- Include supplier name/postcode and BS AU 145e code.
- Use proper fixings and maintain at least 10 mm clearance around characters.
- Avoid DIY, tinted, patterned, or non-approved flags and backgrounds.
- Stay informed of DVLA plate bans to avoid inadvertently using forbidden combinations.
How to Avoid MOT Number Plate Failure
- Conduct monthly visual checks and clean plates before MOT.
- Secure plates properly, ensuring correct clearance and legibility.
- Replace any non-compliant or damaged plates immediately.
- Avoid “show plates” on road use—they’re not MOT-worthy.
Replacing Your Number Plates with a DVLA-Registered Supplier
For peace of mind and full legal compliance, use a DVLA-approved supplier such as Official Plates. We produce plates that tick every compliance box—from font, spacing, and supplier details to durable materials and secure fixings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering “Will I fail my MOT with show plates?” or “Can a dirty registration plate get me done?”—the short answer is yes. Even subtle omissions or DIYers’ shortcuts can lead to failure. Keep your plates clean, compliant, and well-mounted. That’s the easiest way to breeze through your MOT and stay on the right side of the law.
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