Quick Plates Responds: Why Legal Compliance in Number Plate Supply Matters More Than Ever

A recent Guardian Investigation has shone a light on a deeply concerning issue affecting the UK motor trade: the unlawful supply of cloned number plates. As a DVLA-registered supplier, Quick Plates takes this matter with the utmost seriousness—and we want to reassure our customers and the wider public of our unwavering commitment to following the law.

A Broken System Undermines Trust

The investigation revealed that over 130 registered number plate suppliers were willing to produce plates without carrying out the legally required identity and entitlement checks. This practice, often resulting in cloned number plates, allows criminals to obscure the identity of vehicles involved in illegal activity—from speeding and toll evasion to more serious crimes.

This is not just a regulatory failure—it’s a threat to public safety and trust. And it undermines the integrity of law-abiding suppliers who follow the rules and protect their customers from harm.

Our Position Is Clear: No Proof, No Plates

At Quick Plates, we will never supply number plates unless the correct documentation has been provided. This includes:

• A valid proof of identity (e.g. driving licence or utility bill)
• A proof of entitlement to the registration (e.g. V5C logbook or lease agreement)

We understand that customers may occasionally find this inconvenient—but these checks are not optional. They are a legal requirement under the Road Vehicles (Display of Registration Marks) Regulations 2001, and they are in place for a reason: to stop exactly the kind of abuse highlighted in this investigation.

What This Means for You

Some customers are surprised when asked to submit documentation after placing an order. That’s why we make every effort to explain this requirement clearly before purchase, during checkout, and in all confirmation emails. We aim to be as transparent as possible, but our core principle remains the same: we will never cut corners when it comes to legal compliance.

Protecting Honest Drivers

The fallout of plate cloning is often felt by innocent people—receiving fines, penalty points, or police visits for offences they didn’t commit. That’s why genuine, verified suppliers like us are calling for stricter enforcement, tougher penalties, and better oversight of rogue traders who damage the industry’s reputation.

We welcome DVLA and Trading Standards efforts to crack down on illegal suppliers and urge all customers to use only reputable, DVLA-registered companies for their number plates.

A Final Word

At Quick Plates, we take pride in doing things properly. We follow the law, support enforcement efforts, and work hard to protect both our customers and the public from criminal misuse of plates.

If a supplier is willing to send you plates without asking for ID or documents, that should raise a red flag—not win your business.

For safety, legality, and peace of mind, trust only the professionals. Trust Quick Plates.