3D number
plates.

What is a 3D number plate?

A 3D plate is a reflective number plate where each character is given physical height. The version we make is 3D gel: the registration is printed onto the plate first, then a clear polyurethane resin is applied over every character by hand and left to cure. The resin self-levels into a rounded dome, so the characters sit proud of the plate with a wet, glossy look you can feel with your fingertips.

Because the dome is poured rather than cut, the edges are soft and rounded. That is the signature 3D gel look, and it is what most people mean when they search for 3D reg plates.

How is 3D gel different from 4D?

4D characters are individually laser-cut from solid acrylic and bonded onto the plate, so they have flat tops, hard vertical edges and more height — typically 3mm or 5mm. 3D gel characters are lower, rounder and glossier.

4D gel is both techniques together: laser-cut acrylic characters with a gel dome poured on top, at £45 a pair. If you want the full breakdown, read our 3D vs 4D comparison.

• 3D gel (£35) — domed resin, glossy, rounded edges
• 4D (£40) — laser-cut acrylic, flat tops, sharp edges
• 4D gel (£45) — laser-cut characters with a gel dome
• Standard (£30) — printed, flat, no raised characters

How durable are 3D gel plates?

Cured resin is tough and flexible, so it copes well with weather, road grit and temperature swings. Gel is a sensible pick if you want raised characters without hard edges catching on car covers, wash brushes or cloths.

Cleaning is simple: warm soapy water and a soft cloth or wash mitt. Avoid solvent-based cleaners and abrasive pads, don't pressure-wash the plate face from close range, and never scrape ice off the characters. That advice applies to any raised plate, not just gel.

Are 3D plates road legal?

Yes, provided the finished plate meets BS AU 145e — the standard that has been mandatory for plates made since September 2021. That means the correct font, character height and spacing, the right colour and reflectivity, the supplier's details and BS AU 145e marking on the plate, and nothing that misrepresents the registration.

Every road set we make is produced to that standard, and because road-legal plates must come from a DVLA Registered Number Plate Supplier we're required to see proof of your identity and proof of your entitlement to the registration before we press them. You upload both during the order.

What sizes do you make?

All the common UK sizes are made to order, including the standard 520 × 111 mm oblong, rear plinth sizes and 4x4 squares. Short, square and import sizes are £25, and a single replacement plate is £15.