Theft Resistant Number Plates
To combat 'Cloning' and other crimes
Official data shows that around 33,000 number plates were stolen in 2005 though it is well known that thefts from cars are significantly under reported.
According to the DVLA Stolen plates are used by criminals to:
- change the identity of stolen cars so they can be sold
- disguise cars used in activities like ram-raiding or driving from petrol stations without paying
- Evade congestion charges, parking and speeding fines.
New Standards
The Industry, DVLA and others have recently developed a voluntary standard for theft resistant number plates.
Plates that meet the standard will resist known attack methods for a minimum of three minutes and can be expected to cost around twice the price of normal plates.
The AA says
Agreeing the new standard was important but we still need to see these plates widely available in the market – so far the new number plates are being fitted mainly to new cars by some dealers. Those looking to change their current plates may find it hard to locate a registered number plate supplier who can supply and fit theft resistant plates.
Suppliers
- If you're in the process of buying a new car ask the dealer to fit theft resistant number plates when the car is first registered.
- There are two main aftermarket suppliers with a small but growing network of agents across the country;
- Hills Numberplates Ltd – Telephone 0121 623 8050 or visit their website, www.hillsnumberplates.com.
- Secureplate – Visit their website to find suppliers by county/region, www.secureplate.com.
Benefits
- Fewer motorists facing fines for crimes they didn't commit
- Fewer motorists innocently buying cars that turn out to be stolen
- Reduced incidents of fuel theft
If Your Plates are Stolen
Contact the Police immediately. It may seem trivial at the time but it's no fun if you subsequently start receiving fixed penalty notices or are suspected of committing crimes yourself.