Ever wondered what the difference between 3D, 4D, and 5D number plates is? No need to keep searching. We’ve got all the information on the differences and benefits of each number plate.
At Mr Plates, we are a DVLA-approved company that handcrafts MOT and road-friendly personalised number plates. We have a wide range of number plates, including 3D, 4D, and 5D options.
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What Are 3D Number Plates?
Yes. 3D number plates are road-legal in the UK, provided that they adhere to DVLA standards. This includes:
- The correct font is Charles Wright 2001.
- Correct spacing between each individual character.
- The front plate should be a white background with black characters.
- The rear plate should have a yellow background.
- The supplier’s name, postcode, and manufacturer’s mark should be legible.
All number plates from Mr Plates are DVLA-approved and legal.

What Are 4D Number Plates?
4D number plates are a bold statement. Each number plate features laser-cut acrylic characters that are glossed in high-resin, which increases visibility and durability.
Are 4D Number Plates Legal?
Yes. 4D plates are road-legal in the UK, provided they adhere to DVLA standards.
- The correct font is Charles Wright 2001.
- Correct spacing between each individual character.
- The front plate should be a white background with black characters.
- The rear plate should have a yellow background.
- The supplier’s name, postcode, and manufacturer’s mark should be legible.
All number plates from Mr Plates are DVLA-approved and legal.
The Difference Between 3D and 4D Number Plates
We’ve created an easy-to-understand chart the lists the differences between 3D and 4D number plates, read below:
3D Number Plates |
||
Appearance |
Characters are slightly raised and have a rounded, glossy appearance. |
Characters are more prominently raised and have a sharper, rectangular design. |
Materials & Manufacturing |
The raised letters are manufactured from polyurethane and get stuck to the acrylic plate by hand. |
The acrylic characters are laser-cut to ensure precision and have a flat but prominently raised design |
Customisation |
Yes, 3D number plates can be customised. |
Yes, 4D number plates can be customised. |
Cost |
£30 – £35 |
£30 – £50 |
Legality |
Yes. 3D number plates are legal as long as they adhere to DVLA requirements. |
Yes. 4D number plates are legal as long as they adhere to DVLA requirements. |
What Are 5D Number Plates?
Our 5D Gel plate options are the premium choice. Each number plate features the perfect fusion of bold 4D acrylic and sleek 3D gel for maximum depth and shine. These DVLA-approved 5D gel number plates feature a curved, glossy finish with a striking raised profile.
Are 5D Number Plates Legal?
Yes. 5D number plates (often known as 4D Gel) are road-legal in the UK, provided they adhere to DVLA standards. This includes:
- The correct font is Charles Wright 2001.
- Correct spacing between each character.
- The front plate should be a white background with black characters.
- The back plate should have a yellow background.
- The supplier’s name, postcode, and manufacturer’s mark should be legible.
All number plates from Mr Plates are DVLA-approved and legal.
The Difference Between 4D and 5D Number Plates
We’ve created an easy-to-understand chart that lists the differences between 4D and 5D number plates, read below:
Appearance |
Characters are more prominently raised and have a sharper, rectangular design. |
Gel layers add a deeper, shinier, and more curved finish, creating a sleek, high-end look. |
Material & Manufacturing |
The acrylic characters are laser-cut to ensure precision and have a flat but prominently raised design |
5D plates are often made by applying a 3D gel layer on top of the 4D acrylic characters, creating a multi-dimensional appearance. |
Customisation |
Yes, 4D number plates can be customised. |
Yes, 5D number plates can be customised. |
Cost |
£30 – £50 |
£50+ |
Legality |
Yes. 4D number plates are legal as long as they adhere to DVLA requirements. |
Yes. 5D number plates are legal as long as they adhere to DVLA requirements. |
The Conclusion - Which Number Plate Is Best For Me?
To conclude, knowing that you know the difference between 3D, 4D, and 5D number plates, you can make the right choice. There are numerous benefits to each type of number plate – from visibility, durability, and aesthetics. The answer? The number plate that is best for you, is the one you like the best.
Here at Mr Plates, you can find all of our DVLA-approved hand-crafted number plates in one place. Plus, you can enjoy free delivery with next-day availability.