You might be wondering why anyone would steal a number plate. While usually not the most expensive part of a car to replace, number plates can be useful to those looking to commit crimes and avoid being caught. From less serious offences such as speeding to more severe crimes including theft, number plates are stolen and then used on the vehicles involved. When the police identify a plate number on a CCTV system, it won’t be those who commit the crime they’ll be knocking on the door of, but you instead.
If you’ve had your number plates stolen, we’ll show you the essential steps to take – as well as how to avoid this unfortunate incident occurring again.
What to do when your number plates are stolen
If you discover that your number plates have been stolen, the first step you should take is to report the theft to the authorities. This isn’t simply for the purpose of the police finding your stolen registration but also to alert them to the fact that they may be being used in a crime. By reporting this, you can avoid any unnecessary embarrassment and questioning if your plates are involved in an incident. If your car number plate is used in illegal parking or speeding offences, it can also allow you to sidestep any unwanted fines
How to replace stolen number plates
If the authorities are unable to help, you may need to pick up some new number plates. At New Reg you can easily get a replacement set that will be in keeping with all the UK laws as well as being made to the relevant quality standards. We can ensure they’re shipped to your home for you to attach so you can avoid driving illegally to purchase them. It’s an offence to drive without a number plate here in the UK, even if your reg has been stolen.
To get plates made up for a specific registration, you’ll need to show documentation that you have the right to use these plates. The V5C registration document, sometimes called a logbook, is an ideal form of identification that shows you’re the registered owner of a plate. Forms of identification including proof of address (utility or council tax bill) and photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) may be required as well.
Can I drive if my number plates have been stolen?
There are no circumstances in which it’s acceptable to drive your car on UK roads without a number plate displaying the registration at both the front and rear. Regardless of whether your number plate has been stolen, to drive without a registration in place is a legal offence that could result in hefty fines of up to £1,000.
If your plates are removed, ensure you get a replacement set made up as soon as possible and don’t drive until they’ve been fitted.
Avoid having your number plates stolen
One of the cheapest and most effective ways to avoid your plates being taken is to think carefully about where you park your vehicle. Quiet alleyways and roads that don’t benefit from good lighting should never be used if you can avoid this. If possible, for overnight parking opt for somewhere indoors such as a garage. Parking near to the entranceway of buildings is another wise choice.
You can also make your plates more resistant to thieves with anti-theft screws as well as anti-theft plates. Anti-theft screws are very difficult for car thieves to undo and the anti-theft registration plates disintegrate into pieces when someone tries to remove them – ensuring they can’t be used for crimes.