Legal Motorcycle Number Plate Size UK – Complete FAQ Guide

If you are a rider in the UK and unsure about the legal motorcycle number plate size, you are not alone. Many bikers struggle to keep up with the DVLA rules, British Standard requirements, and MOT checks. At PlateZone, we make it simple to understand the rules so you can ride with confidence. This FAQ guide covers every important question about motorbike number plates in the UK – from legal dimensions to personalised designs.

What Is a Motorbike Number Plate?

A motorbike number plate is the official identification plate fixed to the back of your motorcycle. It displays your unique registration number assigned by the DVLA. Unlike cars, motorcycles only require a rear plate, making it easier to identify your vehicle on the road. Plates are mandatory, and riding without one is illegal.

Are Motorbike Number Plates a Legal Requirement in the UK?

Yes. Every motorbike used on UK roads must have a number plate. The law is enforced by the DVLA and police. Plates must also comply with the British Standard BS AU 145e to ensure durability and visibility.

What Size Should a Motorbike Number Plate Be?

The legal size for motorcycle number plates in the UK is 9x7 inches. Plates must display characters in the Charles Wright font with the following rules:

• Letter height: 64mm

• Stroke width: 10mm

• Spacing between characters: 10mm

Can You Have a Smaller Number Plate on Your Bike?

Smaller plates are only legal for imported motorcycles that cannot fit the standard size. For most UK bikes, reducing the size is illegal. Riders caught using small plates face fines and even MOT failure.

What Are the Rules Around Plate Fonts and Spacing?

Motorcycle number plates must use the Charles Wright font with strict spacing rules. No italics, custom scripts, or decorative fonts are allowed. The characters must remain clear and easy to read at a distance.

Are 3D, 4D, or Tinted Motorbike Plates Legal in the UK?

Some riders choose modern styles like 3D gel number plates or 4D gel number plates. These are legal if they remain clear and carry the BS AU 145e mark.

• 3D Plates: Legal if the characters are raised but still clear.

• 4D Plates: Legal but under scrutiny from police. Options include 4D laser cut plates and 4D gel 7mm plates.

• Tinted Plates: Mostly illegal because they reduce visibility.

Every road-legal plate must carry the BS AU 145e mark.

Can You Put a Front Number Plate on a Motorbike?

No. In the UK, motorcycles only require a rear plate. Front plates were banned many years ago for safety reasons.

Is It Legal to Have a Personalised Number Plate on a Motorbike?

Yes. You can buy and assign a personalised plate through the DVLA. Riders often upgrade with unique designs like shadow number plates or diamond number plates, as long as they still follow DVLA rules.

Who Can Make Legal Motorbike Plates?

Only DVLA-registered plate suppliers can make legal motorcycle plates. They will ask for your ID and V5C logbook. Buying a plate without documents is illegal.

What Happens If Your Number Plate Is Illegal?

If your plate does not meet UK standards, you risk:

• Fines of up to £1,000

• MOT failure

• Police penalties and potential points on your licence

Does a Motorbike Plate Affect MOT Test Results?

Yes. During an MOT, your plate must be the correct size, font, and clearly visible. An illegal or unreadable plate can cause your bike to fail its MOT.

Can You Have a Number Plate Without a BSAU Mark?

No. A valid plate must display the BS AU 145e mark. Plates without this mark are not road legal.

Do Motorbike Plates Have to Be Yellow?

Yes. All rear motorcycle plates in the UK must be yellow with black characters. Front plates are not required for bikes.

What Is a Show Plate and Are They Legal?

Show plates are decorative plates used for events or displays. They are illegal for road use and can result in fines if used while riding.

What If My Number Plate Is Dirty or Hard to Read?

A plate must be clean and visible at all times. If police stop you with a dirty or obscured plate, you may receive an on-the-spot fine.

How Can I Check If My Motorbike Plate Is Legal?

You can check your plate using DVLA guidelines. A quick checklist includes:

• Correct size (9x7 inches)

• Charles Wright font

• BS AU 145e mark

• Yellow background with black characters

How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Motorbike Plate?

If your plate is lost or damaged, visit a DVLA-registered supplier. Bring your ID and V5C logbook. Costs vary but usually range between £15–£25.

FAQs 

Are black and silver plates legal on motorbikes?
Only for bikes registered before 1 January 1980.

Can I ride without a plate while waiting for a replacement?
No. Riding without a plate is illegal, even temporarily.

Can I move my plate under the seat?
No. Plates must be fixed at the rear and clearly visible.

What is the penalty for tinted or modified plates?
You may receive fines and fail your MOT.

Are stick-on or magnetic plates allowed?
No. These are not legal for motorbike road use in the UK.

Final Word

Understanding the legal motorcycle number plate size in the UK is essential for every rider. At PlateZone, we help bikers stay compliant with DVLA rules while offering high-quality, road-legal options including 3D gel plates, 4D gel plates, and diamond number plates. Whether you need a replacement, a personalised plate, or advice on legality, PlateZone is here to support you.