Everything You Need to Know About Metro Font Number Plates
Metro font number plates have become increasingly popular among car enthusiasts and those looking for a modern, contemporary alternative to standard number plates. With their condensed spacing and sleek appearance, metro plates offer a distinctive look that sets vehicles apart.
This comprehensive guide explains what metro font plates are, the available sizes, legal considerations, and how to choose the right metro plates for your vehicle.
What Are Metro Font Number Plates?
Metro font number plates feature condensed character spacing and a modern, streamlined appearance that differs from the traditional Charles Wright font used on standard UK road legal plates.
Metro Font Characteristics:
- Spacing: Tight, condensed character spacing
- Style: Modern, contemporary typography
- Appearance: Sleek, streamlined look
- Character Width: Narrower than standard font
- Visual Impact: Bold, eye-catching design
Browse our complete metro plates collection to see the distinctive metro font styling.
Metro Font vs Standard Font: The Key Differences
| Feature | Standard Font | Metro Font |
|---|---|---|
| Font Name | Charles Wright | Metro (condensed) |
| Character Spacing | 11mm standard | Condensed/tight |
| Character Width | 50mm | Narrower, varies by size |
| Appearance | Traditional, classic | Modern, contemporary |
| Road Legal? | ā Yes (79mm height) | ā No (show plates only) |
| Available Sizes | 79mm only (road legal) | 60mm, 55mm, 50mm, 40mm, 30mm |
| Use Case | Daily driving, MOT | Shows, photography, display |
Available Metro Font Sizes
One of the biggest advantages of metro font plates is the variety of character sizes available, allowing you to customize the look of your plates.
60mm Metro Font
- Character Height: 60mm
- Appearance: Bold and visible, closest to standard size
- Popular For: Those wanting metro styling with good visibility
- Available In: Printed, 3D gel, Tinted 3D gel
50mm Metro Font
- Character Height: 50mm
- Appearance: Noticeably condensed, modern look
- Popular For: Contemporary styling with good readability
- Available In: Printed, 3D gel, Tinted 3D gel
40mm & 30mm Metro Font
- Character Heights: 40mm and 30mm
- Appearance: Extremely condensed, minimal profile
- Popular For: Show vehicles and maximum condensed look
- Available In: Printed multi-size, Tinted multi-size
Are Metro Font Plates Road Legal?
No, metro font number plates are NOT road legal in the UK.
Why Metro Plates Aren't Road Legal:
- ā Character height must be 79mm for road legal plates
- ā Must use Charles Wright font only
- ā Character spacing must follow DVLA specifications
- ā Condensed spacing doesn't meet regulations
What Metro Plates ARE Legal For:
- ā Car shows and exhibitions
- ā Photography and promotional shoots
- ā Display purposes
- ā Private property use
- ā Garage/workshop display
Important: Using metro font plates on public roads can result in fines and MOT failure. For road use, you must use standard 79mm road legal plates or 3D gel road legal plates.
Metro Font Plate Formats
Printed Metro Plates
- Flat, smooth surface
- Characters printed directly onto acrylic
- Most affordable metro option
- Available in all sizes (60mm-30mm)
Shop: Metro Font Printed Plates
3D Gel Metro Plates
- Raised, tactile characters
- Premium polyurethane gel overlay
- High-gloss finish
- Available in 60mm and 50mm
Shop: 60mm 3D Gel Metro | 50mm 3D Gel Metro
Tinted Metro Plates
- Unique tinted finish
- Available in printed and 3D gel
- Distinctive dark appearance
- Ultimate custom look
Shop: Tinted Metro Printed | Tinted 60mm 3D Gel | Tinted 50mm 3D Gel
Choosing the Right Metro Font Size
60mm - Best For:
- Metro styling with maximum visibility
- First-time metro plate buyers
- Balanced modern look
50mm - Best For:
- Noticeable metro styling
- Modern, contemporary look
- Popular choice among enthusiasts
40mm - Best For:
- Aggressive, low-profile appearance
- Show vehicles and modified cars
- Sleek, streamlined look
30mm - Best For:
- Maximum condensed effect
- Extreme show vehicles
- Ultimate custom appearance
Metro Plates for Japanese Imports (JDM)
Metro font plates are particularly popular in the JDM community.
- Size: 330mm x 178mm (Jap/JDM dimensions)
- Perfect For: Mitsubishi Evo, Subaru Impreza, Nissan Skyline, Honda Civic Type R
Shop: Jap/JDM Metro Font Plates | Evo-specific Metro Plates
Shortened Metro Plates (16" / 406mm)
For 6-digit registrations, metro font is available in shortened format.
- Dimensions: 406mm x 111mm
- Maximum Characters: 6 digits only
Shop: 16" Metro Printed | 16" Metro 3D Gel
Switching Between Road Legal and Metro Plates
Many enthusiasts keep both sets for different purposes:
- Daily Driving: Road legal standard plates
- Car Shows: Metro font show plates
- Photography: Tinted metro plates for maximum impact
Installation
All metro plates include 10 FREE adhesive mounting pads for easy installation.
Made in Northern Ireland
All our metro font plates are manufactured in our Northern Ireland workshop with same-day production and next-day dispatch via Royal Mail Tracked 48hr or 24hr service.
Order Your Metro Font Plates Today
Ready to give your vehicle a modern, contemporary look? Browse our complete metro plates collection or explore specific options:
For more information, visit our FAQ page or contact our team.