Frequently Asked Questions

+ How do I become a Registered Number Plate Supplier (RNPS)?

To become a registered number plate supplier, you need to apply to the DVLA and provide them the information regarding how you trade. You will also need to agree to be bound by the rules for number plate suppliers. This page describes the process to apply to become a registered number plate supplier, and has a method of applying online.

+ Why do I need to apply for a trade account, why can't I just buy from Plate Supplies?

The supply of number plates in the UK is an area which features some important laws to protect consumers and businesses. As trade suppliers of number plate equipment and supplies, we need to ensure that we are only selling to authorised personnel/companies - you must be a Registered Number Plate Supplier (RNPS) to buy from us.

+ I'm just looking for a set of 3D gel or 4D laser cut number plates, do you make these?

We, Plate Supplies, don't produce these number plates for the end consumer - we just provide the materials to make them - but you can buy these plates from Utopia Plates, who specialise in fully road legal number plates in these styles.

+ How do I make 3D gel number plates?

Our approved trade customers have access to training materials on how to produce 3D gel number plates - if you're interested in accessing this, we'd recommend becoming a trade partner.

+ How do I make 4D laser cut number plates?

Our approved trade customers have access to training materials on how to produce 4D laser cut number plates - if you're interested in accessing this, we'd recommend becoming a trade partner.

+ Are 3D gel and 4D laser cut number plates road legal?

3D gel and 4D acrylic digits are legal provided that they have passed testing under the BSAU 145e regulated testing body. Plate Supplies is a fully certified number plate digit supplier under the current standard. You can view our certifications here.

+ How do I operate legally as a number plate supplier?

As a registered number plate supplier, you are required to verify the identity and entitlement to a registration for every number plate you produce - this is done by requiring the original documents from the customer before you produce the number plates. Once you have witnessed these documents, you must securely keep records of the details you have witnessed for 3 years. 

To operate legally, you must only produce number plates in the legal format - including spacing, style and the legal text at the bottom of the plates must be present.

If you are caught by the DVLA producing non-compliant number plates, you could be banned from producing number plates and face a significant fine.

+ Can I make much money as a number plate supplier?

3D gel and 4D laser cut number plates are currently in a boom, which means that you can make a lot of money whilst everybody wants to treat their car to a set of fancy number plates.

+ How do you ship your orders?

Our orders are typically sent using a next day service, either the Royal Mail for smaller orders or a courier for larger orders. Please see our shipping & delivery page for more information.