What are 4D number plates?

4D number plates feature raised characters to create a three-dimensional effect. They are becoming increasingly popular amongst drivers who love to personalise their vehicle. 4D digits are made using a laser cutter to cut the digits from sheets of black acrylic which are then bonded to a standard plate using a high strength adhesive.

The most obvious difference between 4D number plates and standard number plates is the way the characters are designed. The characters on standard number plates are slightly raised from the surface of the plate, while the characters on 4D number plates are raised even further, creating a captivating three-dimensional appearance.

4D UltraTek Black Digits are crafted through precision laser-cutting from premium 3mm gloss acrylic and seamlessly bonded to number plates.

Due to the higher quality materials and elevated design, 4D number plates are more expensive than standard number plates.

Not quite. 3D number plates were popular before the introduction of 4D number plates but looked quite different. It included a shading effect that was created during the print process to make the digits seem 3D. However, the law changed in 2021 to state that all number plate characters must be solid black. 4D plates have since taken over, however, people now use 3D and 4D interchangeably.

4D plates can be used across all vehicle types as they are the same size and comply to the same regulations as normal number plates. The only exception is trade plates as they can only be acquired from the DVLA and must have red printed characters.

4D number plates are road legal and fully comply with regulations set out by the DVLA. If you’re not sure if a number plate is legal, check that it meets the following criteria:

• Backing must be made from a reflective material.
• All characters must be solid black on a white or yellow background.
• It must not feature a patterned background with any kind of branded logos.
• It must include the company name and postcode of the Registered Number Plate Supplier at the bottom centre. The name of the material manufacturer, and the British Standard number in the bottom right corner.
• It must be printed using the Charles Wright font.
• Characters must be 79mm tall and 50mm wide (except the number "1" or letter "I").
• The space between characters must be 11mm.
• The space between the groups of characters must be 33mm.

You can view a full list of number plate rules on the government website.

There are a number of 4D number plate manufacturers, one of them being Hills Numberplates Ltd who’ve created 4D UltraTek Black Digits. The 4D UltraTek number plates can be purchased from Halfords stores via special order. Speak to one of our experts in-store and we’ll be happy to help.

4D UltraTek Black Digits are a revolutionary addition to the world of vehicle registration plates, designed to give traditional number plates a distinctive and stylish upgrade. The latest innovation in the number plate industry, these plates boast raised characters, creating a captivating three-dimensional appearance.

4D UltraTek Black Digits are crafted through precision laser-cutting from premium 3mm gloss acrylic and seamlessly bonded to number plates with 3M adhesive to guarantee a secure, long-lasting attachment, no matter the road conditions. This process ensures a precise raised profile and adds depth levels that go beyond the capabilities of traditional plates, resulting in an appealing 'four-dimensional' effect.

In a world where vehicle personalisation is on the rise, 4D UltraTek Black Digits emerge as a leading trend, set to redefine the way we showcase our vehicles. As the demand for unique and stylish vehicle enhancements grows, 4D plates offer an unparalleled solution, allowing you to stand out on the road.

You now know all about the wonderful world of 4D numberplates. If you’re looking to elevate your ride, check out the 4D UltraTek number plates today!

Order 4D UltraTek number plates at your local Halfords store.