Overview
- The government has opened a public consultation on illegal plate enforcement that runs until March 31, 2026 as part of a wider review of motoring offences.
- Proposals under review include adding penalty points for drivers using illegal plates and allowing vehicles to be seized in serious cases.
- The package outlines tougher MOT checks to confirm plates are readable by ANPR systems alongside a review of current number plate standards.
- The DVLA would receive stronger powers to inspect registered suppliers more rigorously, and commissioned research would assess whether AI can help identify ghost plates.
- Law‑enforcement figures and MPs have welcomed the move after media tests showed plates bought from a DVLA‑registered dealer could appear nearly invisible under infrared cameras.