Custom Number Plates – One Stop Shop
If you’re on the lookout for custom number plates that stand out, stay legal, and match your vehicle’s personality, you’re in the right place. At JDM Plates, we specialise in everything from personalised registration numbers to unique printed plate designs – and we do it all with a deep understanding of UK regulations, unmatched product quality, and a genuine focus on customer satisfaction.
We’re not just another number plate company. As the UK’s go-to specialists, we offer a complete service that covers:
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Fully road-legal custom plates
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DVLA-approved private registration numbers
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Bespoke printed designs and logos
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The smallest legal plates for cars, bikes and imports
Whether you’re upgrading your daily driver, creating a showpiece, or searching for that perfect plate to match a private reg, we offer everything you need in one place. Each plate is made to order using premium-grade materials, precision-cut finishes, and compliant reflective backing – while still giving you the creative freedom to personalise your plate with artwork, flags, badges or custom spacing (within legal limits).
You don’t need to be a car show regular to get something that turns heads. With our easy-to-use online plate builder and optional design extras, you can create something entirely your own – from sleek, minimal styles to bold, full-featured plates that still pass MOT standards.
We’ve helped thousands of UK drivers find their ideal plate – from first-time buyers to collectors and enthusiasts – all backed by fast turnaround times, finance options, and excellent support.
What Are Custom Number Plates?
Custom number plates are a personalised way to set your vehicle apart; whether that’s through a unique registration number, a custom layout, or a specially designed printed plate that reflects your style. At JDM Plates, we see them as more than just a legal requirement; they’re an extension of your vehicle’s identity.
There are two main types of “custom” when it comes to number plates:
1. Private or Personalised Registrations
These are specific registration marks purchased through the DVLA (or through us) that replace your vehicle’s current reg number. Instead of a random combination of letters and numbers, you can choose something more meaningful – like your initials, a name, or a memorable phrase. These private registrations are fully legal, and once assigned to your vehicle, they become your new number plate identity. We handle these through our Private Plates section, including finance options to help spread the cost between 12-48 months!
2. Custom-Designed Physical Number Plates
This is where design and creativity come into play. Custom-designed plates are the physical plates you attach to your vehicle and with JDM Plates, you can customise the layout, font, spacing, badge, border, and even add artwork or logos outside the legal margin area. These designs must still follow DVLA guidelines to stay road legal, but with the right balance, you can have a plate that looks bespoke and stays compliant.
Whether you opt for a road-legal design or a show plate (ideal for events, car meets, or private display), custom number plates offer flexibility and personalisation that factory-issued plates simply don’t. And thanks to our advanced printing techniques, we’re able to offer high-quality finishes that elevate even the smallest detail; from carbon gel text to custom background layers and even laser cut to completely match your rear number plate recess!
Custom plates aren’t just about looks either. Many customers use them to:
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Promote their business
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Show off club memberships
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Enhance classic or imported vehicles
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Create one-of-a-kind gifts
No matter your reason, we’re here to help you build a plate that’s legal, made to last, and made just for you.
Legal Requirements for Custom Number Plates in the UK
When creating custom number plates, legality is just as important as design. Every vehicle on UK roads must display number plates that comply with DVLA and BSAU 145e regulations ensuring they’re clear, durable, and readable by both people and ANPR cameras. At JDM Plates, every road-legal plate we produce is fully compliant with these standards, so you can customise your design with complete peace of mind.
Understanding the Legal Standards
The UK has strict guidelines set out by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) regarding the format and appearance of number plates. These include:
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Font and character style: All road-legal plates must use the Charles Wright typeface.
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Character spacing: Minimum spacing and margins must be maintained for legibility.
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Material quality: Plates must be reflective, weather-resistant, and meet the BSAU 145e durability standard.
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Colour format: Front plates must have black characters on a white background, while rear plates must have black characters on a yellow background.
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Supplier details: The plate must show the supplier’s name and postcode, as well as the British Standard mark.
Failing to meet these conditions could result in an MOT failure or even a fine of up to £1,000, and your registration could be withdrawn by the DVLA.
Adding Artwork and Staying Legal
One of the most common questions we’re asked is: “Can I print artwork or logos on my custom number plate?”
The answer is yes provided it’s done within the guidelines. At JDM Plates, we can include designs, badges, flags, or even custom artwork outside the minimum legal margin area, ensuring your plate still passes all DVLA checks while displaying your personal touch.
For customers who want even more creative freedom, we also supply show plates that can include full-colour graphics, alternative fonts, and backgrounds for off-road use or exhibitions.
Your Legal Plate, Professionally Made
Every plate produced by JDM Plates is laser-cut, UV-stabilised, and tested to meet UK standards. As a DVLA-registered supplier, we’re authorised to produce road-legal plates that meet both design and legal expectations. When you order from us, you’ll be asked to provide proof of identity and vehicle ownership – a simple step that guarantees full compliance.
For full DVLA details, you can refer to GOV.UK’s guide to displaying number plates.
Personalised Registration Numbers vs Custom Plate Designs
When we talk about custom number plates, there are two distinct ways you can personalise your setup and understanding the difference can help you get the best of both worlds.
At JDM Plates, we make it simple to distinguish between a personalised registration number (a unique DVLA-issued reg mark) and a custom plate design (the physical plate that displays your reg number). While some customers go for one or the other, many choose both – for maximum impact and total individuality.
Personalised Registration Numbers
A personalised registration number – often referred to as a private plate – replaces the standard issue number the DVLA assigned when your vehicle was first registered. These private reg marks can be made up of initials, names, words, or clever combinations that make your car or bike truly one-of-a-kind.
For example:
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“JDM 90” – perfect for import car owners
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“M4 TTY” – ideal if your name’s Matt
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“LUX 1” – high-end appeal for executive vehicles
JDM Plates is authorised to sell private registrations on behalf of the DVLA. You can browse and purchase private number plates directly through our site, and we even offer finance for private number plates options to help you spread the cost of more exclusive plates.
Once a personalised registration is purchased, it becomes your new legal reg number and can be assigned to your vehicle through a quick DVLA process, which we’re happy to help you with.
Custom Plate Designs
The other half of the equation is how your number is displayed, this is where custom plate design comes in. Whether you’re using a standard reg or a personalised one, you can still customise the layout, finish, and appearance of the physical plate.
JDM Plates gives you full control over:
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Plate size (including the smallest legal options in the UK)
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Font, borders, flags, and badges
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Printed graphics or artwork, placed outside the legal margin
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Popular styles such as 3D gel or 4D number plates
- Unique shapes such as hexagonal number plates, diamond number plates and shapes to match the recess of your car!
Even if you don’t own a private plate, a custom design can still give your vehicle a clean, distinctive look. And if you do own a private reg, pairing it with a professionally designed plate is the best way to make it stand out.
Printing Artwork & Custom Designs on Number Plates
Adding custom artwork or design features to your number plate isn’t just about style; it’s about personal expression. Whether you want to display your car club logo, national flag, business branding, or simply add a finishing touch that reflects your vehicle’s look, JDM Plates makes it possible to do it legally and professionally.
Our custom printing service gives you creative control while still adhering to the strict standards required for road use. If you’re after something more eye-catching than the standard black-on-white or black-on-yellow design, you’re in the right place.
What Can You Print on a Number Plate?
Using high-resolution digital printing technology, we can include the following within the custom design:
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Club logos (e.g. JDM Owners UK, VW Dub Club)
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Country flags (UK, Scotland, Wales, EU, Japan, etc.)
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Custom slogans or taglines
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Background patterns or subtle textures
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Dealership names or Instagram handles
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Brand artwork, icons, or borders
These features are printed outside of the legal margin area, which means the main number and readable portion of the plate remains fully compliant with BSAU 145e standards.
Is it Legal to Print Graphics on a Number Plate?
Yes – as long as the key information (registration number, font, spacing, reflectivity) follows DVLA rules.
At JDM Plates, we make sure your plate looks how you want it without compromising legality. Custom artwork is positioned in such a way that:
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It doesn’t interfere with ANPR camera recognition
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It doesn’t cover or distort any part of the registration mark
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It meets MOT test requirements
We also produce show plates for customers who want complete design freedom for track use, exhibitions, or off-road display. These can include alternative fonts, full-plate artwork, or even colour gradients – ideal for making a statement.
Why Use JDM Plates for Custom Artwork?
We’ve printed thousands of custom plates for enthusiasts, collectors, dealerships, and car clubs. Our advanced print setup, clear UV protection, and laser-cut precision ensure a finish that not only looks sharp but also stands up to everyday wear.
Every printed design is inspected before dispatch to guarantee durability, reflectivity, and print clarity. Whether it’s a subtle club badge or a full visual feature, you’ll get a product that turns heads and holds up on UK roads.
Buying a Custom Number Plate Online with JDM Plates
Ordering custom number plates online should be quick, easy, and transparent, and that’s exactly what you get with JDM Plates. Whether you’re buying a legal replacement plate, a show plate, or pairing your new reg number with a custom design, we’ve made the process simple from start to finish.
We’ve built a straightforward online system that lets you design your plate exactly how you want it, while ensuring it stays within legal requirements (if that’s your choice). With a range of customisation options, live previews, and helpful guidance along the way, creating your perfect plate takes just a few minutes.
How to Order Custom Plates Online
Ordering with JDM Plates is as simple as:
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Choosing Your Plate Type
Select from road-legal plates, show plates, imported vehicle plates, or motorcycle plates – all tailored to UK specifications. -
Using the Plate Builder Tool
Customise the layout, font, spacing, badges, borders, and any extra artwork. The live preview updates in real time, so you can see exactly how your plate will look. -
Uploading Proof (For Legal Plates)
For road-legal plates, we require proof of identity and vehicle entitlement in line with DVLA rules. This step ensures your plate is legally registered and MOT-compliant. -
Checkout & Delivery
Place your order using secure payment methods and we’ll get to work. Most plates are dispatched within 1 working day but custom number plates may take a little longer, with tracked 24 and 48 delivery options available.
Why Choose Us for Online Orders?
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User-Friendly Design Tool: Preview every change you make in real time.
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Full Compliance: All road-legal plates meet BSAU 145e standards.
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Fast Dispatch: Most orders shipped within 24 hours.
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Design Support: Need something custom or complex? Just get in touch and we’ll help build it.
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Ongoing Offers: Use discount code JDMP10 at checkout for 10% off selected items.
- Thousands on online reviews and happy customers.
We’re trusted by thousands of drivers across the UK; from daily commuters to car show enthusiasts. And we don’t just sell plates; we provide expert advice, responsive support, and a service you can count on.
Why Choose JDM Plates for Your Custom Number Plates
With so many number plate providers out there, what sets JDM Plates apart? It’s simple; we offer custom number plates backed by expertise, compliance, and customer-first service that’s hard to match. Whether you’re after a legal plate with subtle personalisation or something more striking for a show car, we’re the UK’s trusted specialists in making it happen.
Here’s why drivers across the country choose JDM Plates time and time again:
1. Unmatched Legal Knowledge
We don’t just follow the rules – we understand them inside out. As a DVLA-registered number plate supplier, we ensure every road-legal plate is produced to meet the latest BSAU 145e regulations. From character spacing to reflective backing, everything is spot on. If you ever have questions about legality, spacing, or what’s permitted, our team is here to help.
2. The UK’s Smallest Legal Plates
One of our standout specialisms is offering the smallest legal number plates available. Ideal for imported vehicles, motorcycles, and cars with narrow plate recesses, our compact plate options are DVLA compliant and perfectly cut to suit non-standard shapes. We manufacture to exact millimetre tolerances to ensure the best fit without risking MOT failure.
3. Built Around the Customer
We’ve made our platform easy to use, transparent, and completely tailored to your needs. Whether you’re ordering a single plate or kitting out a collection of vehicles, you’ll get:
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A user-friendly plate builder
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Quick proof uploads
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Multiple secure payment options
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Fast, tracked delivery
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A helpful UK-based support team
With thousands of five-star reviews from satisfied customers, our reputation speaks for itself.
4. Real Customisation
We don’t limit you to templates. You get full control over your plate’s size, finish, text style, and optional extras like printed artwork, club logos, borders, and more. Whether you want understated or bold, legal or show-ready – it’s your plate, your way.
5. Ongoing Offers and Flexibility
From regular discount codes to long-term finance options on private reg numbers, we make it easier for you to get exactly what you want – without compromise.
Custom Plate Sizes: Smallest Legal Plates for Cars & Bikes
Not all vehicles suit the standard-size number plate – and that’s exactly where JDM Plates leads the way. We’re known across the UK for offering the smallest legal number plates for both cars and motorcycles, giving you a clean, minimal look without risking MOT failure or falling foul of DVLA regulations.
Whether you drive an imported Japanese performance car with a smaller rear recess or ride a motorcycle where space is at a premium, we manufacture plates to fit – and fit legally.
Why Size Matters
Many standard UK number plates are simply too large for certain vehicles. Import cars, superminis, and custom motorcycles often have recessed areas that don’t suit oversized plates. Trying to make a regular plate fit can look awkward – or worse, lead to improper display.
That’s where custom sizing comes in.
JDM Plates provides:
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Shortened plates for vehicles with fewer characters
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Slimline designs for motorbikes and imports
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Custom-sized show plates for off-road use or display purposes
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Small square plates for motorcycles or 4x4s
And crucially, all our road-legal custom sizes are still fully compliant with BSAU 145e standards – meeting the legal character height, spacing, and border margins required by the DVLA.
How Small Can You Go?
We tailor each plate to the number of characters you have – meaning if your reg is short (e.g. “JDM 90” or “R4 CEY”), your plate doesn’t need to be any longer than necessary.
Minimum legal dimensions vary depending on the vehicle type, but rest assured, we work to the smallest dimensions legally allowed while ensuring your registration remains readable and DVLA-compliant which can be found on our number plate generator.
Why JDM Plates?
Our experience with imported vehicles, modified cars, and performance bikes makes us the go-to supplier for minimal, custom-fitted plates. Whether you’re looking for a plate that fits flush in a JDM bumper recess or one that complements a single-sided motorcycle bracket, we’ve got it covered.
You won’t need to compromise on looks, quality, or legality, because we build each plate to your vehicle and your vision.
Payment Options, Finance, and Order Process
Getting the custom number plates you want shouldn’t come with payment hassles or complicated checkout steps. At JDM Plates, we’ve made the ordering experience straightforward, secure, and flexible; whether you’re buying a single show plate or investing in a private registration with a custom plate set to match.
With multiple payment methods and finance options available, it’s never been easier to upgrade your vehicle’s look while staying on budget.
Payment Methods We Accept
You can pay for your custom plate order using:
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Credit or Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX)
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Apple Pay and Google Pay for fast checkout
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PayPal for added security
These options are all available directly at checkout and supported by leading payment platforms for full peace of mind.
Finance on Private Number Plates
Looking to purchase a private registration number through JDM Plates? We offer long-term finance to make it more manageable, especially helpful for higher-value reg marks.
Through trusted finance providers, you can:
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Spread payments over several months
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Choose from low deposit options
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Get instant approval during checkout
This service is available on selected registrations in our Private Plates collection, making it easier to secure the plate you want before someone else grabs it.
Fast and Simple Order Process
Here’s how it works from start to finish:
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Choose your plate type (road-legal, show, motorcycle, import)
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Customise your plate using our online builder – add borders, badges, 3D/4D text, custom sizes and more
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Upload ID documents (if ordering a legal plate)
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Choose your delivery method – standard or express, all fully tracked
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Pay securely using your preferred method
Most plates are dispatched within 1 working day, and all orders come with tracking details sent straight to your inbox.
Need Help With Ordering?
Our team is always ready to help with plate design advice, proof guidance, or finance queries. Just drop us a message or call us on 01493 230023 and we’ll get back to you fast – often within the hour during business times.
No matter what you drive or how you want your plate to look, JDM Plates makes it easy to buy with confidence.
