New government guidance explains how to report stolen or cloned plates and challenge fines for journeys your vehicle never made.
Drivers whose number plates have been stolen are being warned to replace them before getting back on the road, or risk a fine of up to £1,000 for failing to display their registration correctly.
The warning from number plate specialist Regtransfers follows the publication of government guidance on stolen and cloned plates on 7 October. The advice explains how to report each problem, notify the DVLA and challenge penalties issued against the wrong vehicle.
For victims of cloning, the first sign may be a speeding notice, parking charge or clean air zone penalty for somewhere their car has never been. Their own number plates can still be attached, leaving no visible sign that someone else is using their registration.
Mark Trimbee, CEO of Regtransfers, said, “A cloned plate is when another vehicle is using your registration number, while your own plates are still on your car. Victims usually find out when a fine or penalty notice arrives somewhere they have never been.”
The distinction matters because drivers whose registration has been cloned can continue using their vehicle. Anyone whose physical plates have been stolen needs replacements before driving again.
Received a fine for a journey your car never made?
Drivers who suspect cloning should report it to the police. In England and Wales, the online cloned number plates form also notifies the DVLA, removing the need for a separate letter.
Anyone reporting by phone, including drivers in Scotland and Northern Ireland, should call 101 and write separately to the DVLA with their registration number and copies of the incorrect fines or charges.
Each penalty must also be challenged with the organisation that issued it. Reporting the cloning does not automatically cancel a fine. The issuer reviews the evidence and decides whether to withdraw it.
Keep the paperwork that supports your appeal
Trimbee advises keeping the police reference number, DVLA confirmation letter and copies of all correspondence together.
“Most importantly, you should keep a note of the police report or crime reference number, as well as the DVLA confirmation letter,”
he added.
The DVLA advises including a copy of its confirmation letter when challenging an incorrect penalty. Further notices should be disputed individually.
Drivers can continue using their car after reporting cloning, but may be stopped by police investigating the registration. Officers may ask to see their report reference, V5C logbook and driving licence.
If the plates have been physically stolen
Report the theft to the police and obtain a crime reference number. Then write to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AR, including the reference and the vehicle’s registration number.
Replacement plates must be fitted before the vehicle is driven again. Reporting the theft does not remove that requirement.
The guidance comes after the Department for Transport announced funding for the National Roads Policing Coordination Centre on 5 September. Its work includes tackling cloned and missing plates, alongside trials of specialist goggles to detect plates altered to evade cameras.
