What Are Shortened Number Plates?
Shortened number plates, also known as 16" plates, measure 406x111mm compared to the standard 520x111mm oblong size. These compact plates offer a sleeker, more aggressive look that's particularly popular with performance and modified car enthusiasts.
Key Specifications
Our shortened plates are designed to strict specifications:
- Dimensions: 406mm x 111mm (16" x 4.4")
- Maximum capacity: 6 digits only
- Available in road legal and show plate formats
- Multiple font options: Standard Charles Wright and Metro fonts
- Finish options: Printed, 3D Gel, and Metro styling
Are Shortened Plates Road Legal?
Yes - UK law requires all characters to be displayed, so if your registration has 6 digits or less, our road legal shortened plates meet all DVLA and MOT requirements for qualifying registrations.
Popular Vehicle Choices
Shortened plates are especially popular on:
- Performance cars (BMW M-series, Audi RS models)
- Modified vehicles with custom front bumpers
- Classic cars with limited mounting space
- Vehicles with curved or recessed plate areas
- Show cars seeking a cleaner aesthetic
Choosing the Right Style
Road Legal Standard Font: Perfect for daily drivers who want a compact look while staying MOT compliant. Features the regulation Charles Wright font at 79mm character height.
Metro Font Printed: Available in multiple sizes (60mm, 55mm, 50mm, 40mm, 30mm) for show use. Offers a modern, sleek appearance popular in the modified car scene.
3D Gel Metro: Our premium option combining the shortened format with raised 3D gel characters for maximum visual impact. Available for both road legal and show applications.
Installation Tips
All our shortened plates include FREE adhesive sticky pads for secure mounting. Ensure your mounting surface is:
- Clean and dry before application
- Flat or gently curved (not sharply contoured)
- Free from wax or polish residue
- At the correct legal height and angle for road legal plates
Northern Ireland Manufacturing
Every shortened plate is manufactured in our Northern Ireland workshop using premium materials and precision cutting equipment. We offer fast UK-wide delivery with 48-hour and 24-hour tracked shipping options available.
Shop Shortened Plates
Browse our complete range of 16" shortened number plates, available in road legal and show plate formats with various styling options to suit your vehicle.