Number plate laws have been changing in the UK. Previously, drivers heading to Europe from the United Kingdom by law had to have a GB sticker visible on the rear end of their car. If UK drivers failed to display these stickers, they risked refusal into the country or even penalties. From Tuesday this week; a new law has been put in place to change these GB stickers and replacing them with a UK one.
This is the second number plate law put in place, with the first one which commenced from the 1st of September banning the use of two-tone finish on number plates which created the look of a 3-dimensional finish, that has become increasingly popular other the years. Drivers who are found breaking this law can be fined up to £1,000.
Why the change?
The reasons for the change have been made quite simple. This change is believed to represent solidarity with Northern Ireland after Brexit; as the United Kingdom includes all four nations in contrast to Great Britain which only includes England, Wales and Scotland.
The GB stickers have been valid for 111 years for cars in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland who plan to drive their vehicle to Europe. Drivers from Great Britain with GB permanently on their number plate must also need a UK sticker. The guidelines on the Government website informs:
“If you’re in Spain, Cyprus or Malta, you must display a UK sticker no matter what is on your number plate”.
This law is not a huge change; however, we advise not to forget it when entering Europe. For just £1.50 you can buy yourself a UK sticker and avoid facing any complications or unwanted fines during your journey.
As a solicitor’s firm, we believe it is our service to update our viewers on any law changes that if broken can result in hefty penalties and charges. However, in the unlucky event that you have been charged with a motoring offence, our experienced solicitors can help defend your charges and help you avoid any unnecessary penalty points and charges.
Been charged with a motoring offence?
If you have been charged with a motoring offence our solicitors at Solicitors On Your Side can help you. We will ensure you get the best possible outcome in the most stress-free and easy way, enabling you to get back to your daily life in no time. If you have been charged with a motoring offence; there is a range of things that our experienced solicitors can help you with, these include:
- Dangerous Driving
- Drink Driving
- Driving With No Insurance
- Driving With No License
- Drug Driving
- Electric Bicycles & Scooters
- Failing To Stop
- Rules For New Drivers
- Speeding Offences
- Using A Mobile Phone Whilst Driving
Depending on the offence, the consequences can vary. Penalties can be hefty for some offences depending on the severity. More severe offences include driving bans and even possible imprisonment. We understand that being faced with a driving penalty can put a big pause on your life and driving bans can seriously stop you from performing your day to day life, especially if you use driving for work. Contact our experienced solicitors at Solicitors On Your Side now, to get the best possible outcome, we offer free initial consultations so we can discuss your case and the best possible options for you.
If you would like to find out more about the most common motoring offences that we can deal with, and the penalties we can help you avoid visit our Motoring Offences Page.
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