Understanding the Difference Between Road Legal and Show Plates
When shopping for custom number plates in the UK, one of the most common questions we hear at The Plate Wizard is: "What's the difference between road legal and show plates?" This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know to make the right choice for your vehicle.
What Are Road Legal Number Plates?
Road legal number plates, also known as MOT compliant plates, are designed to meet strict DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) regulations for use on UK roads. These plates must comply with specific standards to ensure they're legal for everyday driving.
Road Legal Plate Requirements:
- Font: Must use the Charles Wright font at 79mm character height
- Spacing: Characters must follow DVLA-approved spacing guidelines
- Materials: Made from reflective acrylic material
- Markings: Must display the manufacturer's name, postcode, and British Standard mark (BSAU 145e)
- Colours: White front plate, yellow rear plate with black characters
- Size: Standard 520mm x 111mm (oblong) or 330mm x 178mm (for certain vehicles)
At The Plate Wizard, all our road legal number plates are manufactured to these exact specifications and include the required legal markings: "THE PLATE WIZARD BT20 4JB" and "BSAU 145e".
What Are Show Plates?
Show plates are custom number plates designed for display, photography, car shows, and promotional purposes only. They are not legal for road use and do not comply with DVLA standards.
Show Plate Characteristics:
- Font Options: Can use metro font, condensed spacing, or custom sizes (60mm, 55mm, 50mm, 40mm, 30mm)
- Styling: Available in 3D gel, tinted finishes, and various effects
- No Legal Markings: Do not include manufacturer details or British Standard marks
- Creative Freedom: More flexibility in design and presentation
- Purpose: Photography, car shows, display, or promotional use only
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Road Legal Plates | Show Plates |
|---|---|---|
| Road Use | ✅ Legal for UK roads | ❌ Display only |
| Font | Charles Wright (79mm) | Metro, various sizes |
| Legal Markings | ✅ Required | ❌ Not included |
| MOT Compliant | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Styling Options | Standard Printed & 3D Gel | Metro 3D gel, tinted, custom |
| Documentation Required | ✅ Yes (V5C, ID) | No |
When to Choose Road Legal Plates
Choose road legal number plates if you:
- Need plates for everyday driving
- Want to pass your MOT inspection
- Require DVLA-compliant plates
- Are replacing damaged or lost plates
- Need plates for a newly registered vehicle
We offer road legal plates in both standard format and 3D gel options, as well as Jap/JDM sizes for Japanese imports.
When to Choose Show Plates
Choose show plates if you:
- Want plates for photography or promotional shoots
- Are displaying your vehicle at car shows or events
- Prefer metro font styling with condensed spacing
- Want tinted or custom finishes
- Need plates for display purposes only
Important: Show plates should never be used on vehicles being driven on public roads. Using non-compliant plates can result in fines and MOT failure.
Documentation Requirements
As a DVLA registered number plate supplier, The Plate Wizard is required to verify your identity and vehicle ownership when purchasing road legal plates.
For Road Legal Plates, You'll Need:
Proof of Identity (one of):
- Driving licence
- Utility or Council Tax bill (last 6 months)
- Bank statement (last 6 months)
- National identity card
Proof of Vehicle Ownership (one of):
- V5C registration certificate
- V5C/2 new keeper supplement
- V750 certificate of entitlement
- V11 tax renewal reminder
Show plates do not require documentation as they're sold for display purposes only.
Popular Options at The Plate Wizard
Road Legal Options:
- Standard Road Legal Plates - Classic MOT compliant plates
- 3D Gel Road Legal Plates - Premium raised lettering, still road legal
- Jap/JDM Road Legal Plates - For Japanese imports
Show Plate Options:
- Metro Font Plates - Available in 60mm, 55mm, 50mm, 40mm, 30mm
- 3D Gel Show Plates - Raised lettering for display
- Tinted Plates - Unique tinted finish
- Shortened Plates - 16" plates for 6-digit registrations
Made in Northern Ireland, Delivered UK-Wide
All our number plates are manufactured in our Northern Ireland workshop with same-day production. Orders placed before 14:00 Monday-Friday are dispatched the same day via Royal Mail Tracked 48hr or 24hr service.
Every order includes 10 FREE professional adhesive mounting pads (5 per plate) for easy installation.
Still Not Sure Which to Choose?
If you're unsure whether you need road legal or show plates, here's a simple rule:
If the vehicle will be driven on public roads = Road Legal Plates
If the plates are for display/photography only = Show Plates
Have questions? Check our FAQ page or contact our team for expert advice on choosing the right number plates for your needs.
Order Your Number Plates Today
Whether you need road legal plates for daily driving or show plates for your next car event, The Plate Wizard has you covered. Browse our full range of road legal plates and show plates to find the perfect option for your vehicle.
All plates are made to order in Northern Ireland with fast UK-wide delivery. Order today and receive your custom number plates within 2-3 working days!