What Are 4D Number Plates? A Simple Guide

If you've seen a car with sharp, raised letters on its number plate that seem to stand off the plate, you've probably seen a set of 4D number plates. They're one of the most popular upgrades in the UK right now, and for good reason.

What makes a plate "4D"?

A standard plate has its characters printed flat onto the plate. A 4D plate is different: each letter and number is laser-cut from solid black acrylic and bonded onto the face of the plate. Because the characters are physically raised, they cast a small shadow and catch the light, giving the plate real depth.

At PlatedUp we make 4D plates in two depths:

• 4D 3mm: a crisp, raised look that suits almost any car.
• 4D 5mm: deeper characters for a bolder, more aggressive finish.

You can also go one step further with our 5mm and 7mm gel styles, where the acrylic characters are topped with a glossy gel finish.

Are 4D plates road legal?

Yes, as long as they're made properly. The British Standard for number plates, BS AU 145e, allows raised characters as long as they are a single solid black colour, use the correct font and spacing, and the plate shows the supplier's name and the standard's mark. Every 4D plate we make ticks all of those boxes. We go into more detail in our post on whether 4D plates are legal.

Why choose 4D?

• They look premium. It's the quickest way to make a car look sharper.
• They last. Solid acrylic characters won't fade or peel like cheap printed plates.
• They're still road legal. You get the custom look without the risk of a fine.

How to order

Head to our plate builder, type your registration, choose 4D 3mm or 4D 5mm, then add a flag badge, border or fixing kit if you want one. You'll see a live preview of your plates before you buy, and orders placed before 2pm on a working day are made and dispatched the same day.