Understanding the British Standard BS AU 145e for Number Plates

- Advertisement -

Number plates in the UK are subject to strict regulations to ensure visibility, durability, and compliance with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems. One of the most important standards governing number plates is BS AU 145e, which was introduced in September 2021. This updated standard replaced the previous BS AU 145d and brought significant changes aimed at improving the quality and readability of number plates. Many drivers are still unaware of what this standard entails and how it affects their vehicles. Whether you’re buying a new number plate or simply ensuring your current one is legal, understanding BS AU 145e is essential. 

BS AU 145e is the British Standard that all new number plates must meet. It was introduced to make plates more durable, clearer for ANPR cameras, and resistant to tampering. Any number plate produced after September 1, 2021, must comply with this standard to be road legal.

The key improvements over the previous BS AU 145d standard include:

• Greater Durability – New number plates must be able to withstand abrasion, impact, and extreme weather conditions without fading or breaking.
• Improved Readability – To help ANPR cameras and law enforcement, all characters must be solid black with no shading or two-tone effects, which means some older 3D and gel plates no longer comply.
• Stronger Material Requirements – Plates must now be made from tougher materials that prevent cracks, peeling, or damage over time.
• Tighter Regulations on Decorative Features – Printed patterns, logos (other than approved flags), and coloured tints are no longer permitted.

These changes were made to ensure that number plates remain clear and legible for as long as possible, reducing the risk of unreadable or damaged plates affecting road safety and law enforcement.

Why Was BS AU 145e Introduced?

The introduction of BS AU 145e was driven by a need for better enforcement and safety on UK roads. Some number plates manufactured under the old BS AU 145d standard were prone to wear and tear, making them difficult to read over time. In addition, ANPR cameras struggled to capture clear images of certain plate designs, particularly those with 3D effects or unusual fonts.

By enforcing stricter durability standards and requiring solid black characters, the UK government aimed to:

• Reduce misread plates that could lead to incorrect fines or penalties.
• Make it harder for criminals to tamper with or modify plates for illegal activities.
• Improve road safety by ensuring plates remain visible in all lighting and weather conditions.

How to Identify a BS AU 145e-Compliant Number Plate

If you are unsure whether your number plate meets the latest regulations, there are a few key signs to look for:

• Solid Black Characters – No two-tone shading, gel overlays, or artistic effects.
• Supplier Details at the Bottom – Every legal plate must display the company name and postcode of the registered plate supplier.
• British Standard Marking – A BS AU 145e certification mark should be present on the plate.
• Clear, Undamaged Material – Plates must be made from a single, non-reflective material that does not fade or crack.

If your number plate does not meet these requirements, you may need to replace it to remain compliant with the law.

- Advertisement -

The Impact on 3D and 4D Number Plates

One of the most controversial aspects of BS AU 145e is its effect on 3D and 4D number plates. While many people assume these plates are now illegal, this is not entirely true.

• 3D gel plates with shaded or two-tone characters are no longer road legal because they can confuse ANPR cameras.
• 4D laser-cut acrylic plates are still legal, but only if the characters are solid black and comply with all other BS AU 145e requirements.

To ensure compliance, drivers should check with a reputable supplier before purchasing 3D or 4D plates. Companies like Regplates offer fully legal, high-quality plates that meet the latest UK standards.

Consequences of Using a Non-Compliant Plate

Using a number plate that does not comply with BS AU 145e can result in serious penalties. If caught with an illegal plate, you could face:

• A fine of up to £1,000 for failing to display a legal registration plate.
• An MOT failure, meaning your vehicle cannot be driven until the plate is replaced.
• Vehicle seizure in extreme cases, particularly if the plate is deliberately misleading or obscured.

To avoid these consequences, it is always best to check that your plates meet the legal requirements and replace them if necessary.

Where to Buy Legal Number Plates

If you need to replace your number plates to meet BS AU 145e standards, it’s important to buy from a DVLA-registered supplier. Trusted companies provide plates that are fully compliant with UK laws and come with the necessary certifications.

When purchasing new plates, make sure they include:

• The supplier’s name and postcode printed at the bottom.
• The correct font, spacing, and size as required by law.
• BS AU 145e certification for guaranteed compliance.

By choosing a reputable supplier, you can ensure that your number plate remains road-legal, durable, and clearly visible at all times.