Metal Number Plates
Metal Number Plates vs Metal Show Plates
Table of Contents
Metal Number Plates vs Metal Show Plates – What’s the Difference?
We are often asked what the difference is between metal number plates and metal show plates, and whether both can be used on vehicles. This guide answers the most common questions so you can choose the right plate for your needs.
What Are Show Plates?
In simple terms, show plates are decorative signs. They come in many shapes, sizes, and styles, and can be customised to suit your exact design. You can include any text, name, or phrase you want.
However, unlike road-legal metal number plates, show plates cannot be used to display a vehicle registration mark on public roads in the United Kingdom.
Browse our Show Plates collection →
Why Are They Called Show Plates?
They are called “show plates” because they are widely used at car shows, exhibitions, and other off-road events. They are perfect for adding a personal or decorative touch to a vehicle or display.
You might see them:
- On cars displayed at shows
- On private property vehicles such as golf buggies or quad bikes
- As display signs at garages or dealerships
Show plates are not designed to meet the UK road-legal number plate format, so they cannot be used while driving on public roads.
What Can I Have on a Show Plate?
You can be creative. Show plates can feature:
- Your name or nickname
- A business name
- A fun slogan or message
- Custom colours, fonts, and layouts
Our customers often order show plates with their children’s names for toy cars, or with their own names for golf carts or display vehicles.
Design your custom show plate today →
Can I Use a Show Plate to Display a Registration Mark?
No. UK law specifies the exact format and style required for road-legal number plates. Show plates differ in layout, spacing, and sometimes colour, which makes them unsuitable for legal road use.
That said, our show plates are still made to the same high standard as our metal number plates — they’re simply designed for decorative or private use instead.
Quick Comparison – Metal Number Plates vs Metal Show Plates
| Feature | Metal Number Plates | Metal Show Plates |
|---|---|---|
| Legal for UK road use | ✅ Yes (with correct documentation) | ❌ No |
| Displays a registration mark | ✅ Yes | Optional – any text or design |
| Custom design options | Limited (must meet legal standards) | Unlimited (fonts, colours, spacing, designs) |
| Common uses | Everyday driving, MOT compliance, vehicle identification | Car shows, decorative signs, private property vehicles |
| Requires DVLA-approved supplier | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Material & quality | Aluminium, high-quality reflective finish | Aluminium or acrylic, same high build quality |
Can I Use a Show Plate on a Trailer?
You can use a show plate on a trailer to display a fleet number or an identification mark, but not as a road-legal registration plate.
For example, quarries or private industrial sites often use show plates to identify site-only trailers or machinery.
What Happens If I Use a Show Plate Instead of a Number Plate in the UK?
If you use a non-compliant plate on public roads in the UK, you risk:
- A fine or prosecution
- Your vehicle being seized
- Failing your MOT test
We sell show plates for decorative purposes only, not for use as road-legal number plates.
What If I Need a Number Plate?
If you require a metal number plate that meets current UK laws and standards, we can help.
All products in our Number Plates category are road legal (when ordered with the correct documentation) and are suitable for modern and classic vehicles.
Browse our Number Plates collection →
Contact Us
Still unsure whether you need a show plate or a number plate? Get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to guide you.
Find us on Facebook
