A new report warns that the misuse of number plates is putting road users at risk and creating a threat to national security.
Researchers from the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Transport Safety (APPGTS) found that as many as one in 15 vehicles could be fitted with plates designed to avoid detection by automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras.
Some of these plates use reflective coatings that stop ANPR cameras from reading them. Others involve “cloning”, where criminals illegally copy the registration of another vehicle.
The report says avoiding ANPR cameras can be as simple as using cellophane, leaves or even a marker pen. Some sprays that claim to hide plates are being sold online for around £4.
Misusing number plates can help offenders avoid road charges and fines, as well as support drug dealing and organised crime.
APPGTS says the number of licensed number plate sellers - currently more than 34,000 - should be significantly reduced. Many sellers operate from homes or small workshops without proper checks, and some staff handling ID documents were found to have criminal records.
The report also calls for standardised plate designs, including a ban on 3D and 4D plates.
Labour MP Sarah Coombes said the findings show a system that is “failing”, and warned that criminals are able to set themselves up as plate sellers with little oversight. She urged the Government to act quickly.
Experts raised concerns with ministers in June, urging a crackdown on illegal online plate sales that help drivers avoid penalties.
RAC head of policy Simon Williams said urgent action is needed, as ghost and cloned plates put road safety and national security at risk. He called for higher security standards for plates and their manufacturers.
The British Number Plate Manufacturers Association supports the recommendations. The DVLA also says it has strict rules for registered suppliers, and drivers caught using illegal plates can face up to two years in prison. A review is already under way to ban plates designed to defeat ANPR cameras.
In February, Ms Coombes introduced a Ten Minute Rule Bill calling for harsher penalties for ghost plates and related products. She said they are widely available online for as little as £30 - less than a third of the cost of a speeding fine.
