What to do if your number plate is stolen — your step by step guide
Discovering that your number plate has been stolen can be a distressing and frustrating moment. But if you act swiftly and follow the right procedures, you can minimise the risk of fines, fraudulent use of your registration, and future theft. Here’s a complete guide to what you should do — from reporting the theft to replacing the plate, and how to better protect your vehicle going forward.
1. Report the theft to the police
As soon as you notice your number plate is missing, your first priority should be to contact your local police station. Provide them with your vehicle registration number, as well as any other relevant details — for example, when and where you last saw your plates, and any suspicious activity. Make sure to obtain a crime reference number, and keep a record of the report. This is essential not only for replacement purposes, but also if your plate is later used in criminal or fraudulent activity.
Getting an official police report helps to demonstrate that the theft was beyond your control — which can prove crucial if fines or charges are issued against you later.
2. Notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
Once you’ve filed a police report, you must inform the DVLA. Whether you call or fill in their online form, notify them that your number plate has been stolen. The DVLA will update their records to flag the registration as compromised — which helps prevent thieves from using your plate for illegal activity such as “cloning” or disguising another vehicle.
Prompt DVLA notification ensures your vehicle’s official records remain up?to?date — a key factor if anyone tries to misuse your registration.
3. Inform your insurance provider
Next, contact your motor insurance company to report the theft. Provide them with the DVLA notification (if received) and the police crime reference number. This step is important — not only to protect yourself from liability if the stolen plate is used unlawfully, but to ensure your coverage remains valid and you stay protected.
Some insurers may also offer advice or services to help you replace the plates or upgrade your vehicle’s security.
4. Replace your number plate
After reporting the theft, your next move is to replace the number plate. Use an authorised number?plate supplier to ensure compliance with legal standards. When you go to get a replacement, you’ll likely need to bring:
- Your V5C logbook (showing you are the registered keeper)
- Proof of identity
- The police crime reference number
Once these are checked, the supplier can issue new plates — allowing you to get back on the road legally and with peace of mind.
If you prefer, you can choose new registration plates altogether. For example, our bargain number plates offer an affordable way to change your registration and avoid the risk of repeated theft or fraudulent use.
5. Monitor your vehicle records closely
Even after you’ve replaced the plate, you should remain vigilant. Keep an eye on any vehicle?related correspondence — such as fines, parking tickets, or notices — especially if they reference offences you did not commit. If you receive anything suspicious, contact the issuing authority and explain that your number plate was stolen. Provide the police reference number and DVLA notification as evidence.
Regularly check your vehicle’s record with DVLA (or equivalent service) to make sure no illicit use of the old plate is logged against you.
6. Upgrade your vehicle security and prevent further theft
To avoid finding yourself in the same situation again, consider investing in measures that make number?plate theft less likely:
- Use anti?theft number plate screws — these require special tools, making plates much harder to remove.
- Park in secure, well?lit areas whenever possible — avoid leaving your vehicle overnight on secluded streets.
- Install a dashcam or vehicle CCTV — these can record any suspicious activity around your car, and act as a deterrent.
- If you suspect repeated attempts, consider changing your registration number — using legitimate, legal plates such as those offered through Primo Registrations’ bargain options can give you fresh credentials and peace of mind.
7. Stay informed about vehicle?security legislation and best practices
Number?plate theft and registration fraud are ongoing issues across the UK. New laws, enforcement methods and prevention technologies emerge regularly. Stay updated — follow official announcements from DVLA, police forces, and reputable number?plate suppliers.
Being aware of changes in legislation (for example, requirements around registration display, plate materials, or security features) can help you respond appropriately if your vehicle is targeted again.
Why acting promptly matters
A stolen number plate isn’t just an inconvenience — it can leave you vulnerable to serious consequences. If the stolen plate is used illegally (for example, on a cloned vehicle), law?breaking vehicles may be traced back to you, leading to fines, penalty points, or even legal issues.
By acting quickly — reporting to the police, notifying DVLA and your insurer — you shift the burden away from yourself. Updating your plates, tightening security, and monitoring records decreases the risk of future misuse.
Moreover, choosing to replace or even change your plate (for instance through bargain registration plates) isn’t just about convenience: it’s a preventive measure. You replace compromised credentials with fresh, legitimate ones — making it far less attractive for thieves to target your vehicle again.
Final thoughts
Having your number plate stolen can be stressful — but it doesn’t need to escalate into a long?term problem. If you follow the right steps, you can quickly regain control: report the theft, alert DVLA and your insurer, get a replacement plate, and beef up your vehicle security.
If you’d like to explore affordable replacement or new registration options, see our bargain number plates page. And if you need help with the process or have questions, feel free to contact us — we’re here to help you stay safe, legal, and protected.
