Government launches crackdown on illegal number plates

A new nationwide crackdown has been launched to target drivers using illegal number plates to avoid detection and support criminal activity.

The government is funding a new National Roads Policing Coordination Centre, which will bring police forces across England together to share intelligence, technology and data. The aim is to help officers identify offenders more quickly and disrupt organised crime using the road network.

The crackdown will target several types of illegal number plates, including cloned plates, where a legitimate vehicle’s registration is copied, and so-called ‘ghost plates’, which can use transparent films or other methods designed to make registrations difficult for cameras to read. Vehicles being driven without number plates will also be targeted.

New technology is being trialled as part of the work, including specialised goggles capable of detecting number plates that have been altered or obscured in an attempt to avoid automatic number plate recognition cameras.

Illegal plates can be used to evade speeding, parking and clean air zone penalties, but they are also linked to more serious and organised crime, including the movement of illegal goods.

The government is also considering tougher penalties for motorists using illegal number plates as part of its wider Road Safety Strategy. Proposals have included introducing penalty points and powers to seize vehicles.

Drivers can currently face a fine of up to £1,000 for using an incorrectly displayed number plate.

Read the full government announcement