It’s every car owner’s nightmare: you walk up to your car, only to notice your number plates are gone. What may seem like a small piece of plastic or acrylic is actually a gateway for criminals — and if stolen, it can quickly turn into speeding fines, parking tickets, or even police investigations in your name.

With number plate thefts on the rise across the UK, knowing exactly what to do is crucial. Here’s your step-by-step guide to handling the situation, staying compliant with the law, and protecting yourself from unnecessary stress.

1. Report It to the Police Immediately

Your first move should always be to contact the police. 

• Call 101 (non-emergency line) and report the theft.
• Make sure you receive a crime reference number — you’ll need this for insurance claims, DVLA records, and proving your innocence if cloned plates are used in crimes.

Do not delay. Criminals often use stolen plates within hours, so acting fast can protect you.

 

2. Inform the DVLA

Next, notify the DVLA that your plates have been stolen. This ensures:

• The theft is logged against your vehicle’s registration.
• Authorities are aware that any potential offences linked to your number may not involve you.

You can’t legally drive without plates, so arrange replacements straight away through a DVLA-registered supplier like Professor Plates.

 

3. Notify Your Insurance Provider — Why It Matters More Than You Think

One of the most common questions UK car owners ask is: 

“Do I really need to tell my insurance if my number plates are stolen?”

The answer is yes — and here’s why:

• Protection Against Cloned Plate Fines 

If criminals use your stolen plates on another car, the fines, speeding tickets, or congestion charges could initially come to you. By notifying your insurer as soon as possible, you create an official record that helps prove you weren’t at fault.

• Proof for Police & DVLA

Your insurance provider will log the theft alongside your crime reference number. This record strengthens your case if cloned plates are used in criminal activity.

• Cover for Related Damage

In some cases, plate theft isn’t the end of the story — thieves may damage your vehicle while removing the plate. Depending on your policy, your insurance might cover these repair costs.

 

But What If You Don’t Have Insurance Yet?

Not every car owner is fully covered when their plates are stolen — maybe your car is in storage, maybe you’ve just bought the vehicle, or maybe your insurance has lapsed.

Here’s what to do: 

• You must still report the theft to the police immediately.
• Notify the DVLA so the theft is logged against your registration number.
• Replace your plates straight away through a DVLA-registered supplier like Professor Plates.
• Get your insurance active again before driving the car, since driving uninsured (even with new plates) is illegal and can result in a £300 fine and 6 penalty points.

Even if you don’t currently have insurance, reporting the theft early protects you against cloned plate fines and investigations down the line.

 

Trending Questions UK Drivers Are Asking About Insurance & Plate Theft:

• Does car insurance cover stolen number plates in the UK?
• Do I need to pay excess if only my number plate is stolen?
• What happens if I drive without plates while waiting for replacements?
• Will cloned plates affect my no-claims bonus?

By covering these FAQs, you’re not only protecting yourself but also ensuring you have a strong paper trail that proves your innocence if criminals use your stolen registration.

 

4. Replace Your Plates Legally

You can’t drive without number plates, so getting replacements quickly is essential. But be careful — not all suppliers are DVLA-compliant. 

When ordering replacements, you’ll need: 

1. Proof of ID (e.g., driving licence, passport).
2. Proof of entitlement (e.g., V5C logbook).

At Professor Plates, we provide DVLA-compliant plates (including 3D and 4D options) that meet the BSAU 145e standard, ensuring they’re legal, stylish, and MOT-friendly.

 

5. Add Extra Security to Prevent Future Theft

Unfortunately, number plate theft is on the rise, but there are ways to protect yourself:

• Use anti-theft screws when fitting your plates.
• Park in well-lit areas or secure garages. We can also securely fit your plates or extra deterrence.

At Professor Plates, we can also fit your plates securely for free with our plate replacement service, reducing the risk of theft.

 

Final Thoughts: Stay Protected & Stay Legal

Having your number plates stolen is stressful, but with the right steps, you can minimise the damage and protect yourself. 

Remember:

1. Report it to the police.
2. Notify the DVLA.
3. Tell your insurance provider (even if you think it’s minor).
4. Replace your plates legally with a DVLA-compliant supplier.
5. Secure your car against future theft.

At Professor Plates, we don’t just provide premium 3D, 4D, and standard plates — we ensure they’re DVLA-approved, MOT-compliant, and nationwide-delivered for your peace of mind.

 

Ready to replace your stolen plates with premium, legal, and secure alternatives?

Order your bespoke plates from Professor Plates today and enjoy nationwide next-day delivery or same-day local collection. 

Order Your Plates Today!