Having your number plates stolen is alarming — and it is almost always a sign that someone intends to clone your vehicle. Stolen plates are used to commit speeding offences, evade ULEZ charges, fuel theft, and more serious crimes, all traced back to you.
Number plate theft is rising across the UK. Thieves can remove standard plates in under 30 seconds using basic tools. If yours are taken, assume cloning is imminent and act fast.
Step 1: Report to the police immediately
Call 101 or report online via your local police force website. You must get a crime reference number — you will need this for every fine, appeal, and insurance claim that follows.
Provide details of where your vehicle was parked, when you noticed the theft, and whether you have CCTV or dashcam footage of the incident.
Step 2: Notify the DVLA
Contact the DVLA to report your plates as stolen. This flags your registration in their system, which can help if cloned plates are used and fines arrive in your name. You can contact the DVLA via their online service or by writing to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AB.
Step 3: Inform your insurance company
Let your insurer know your plates have been stolen. Even if you do not make a claim, having it on record protects you if the cloned plates are later used in an incident involving your registration.
Step 4: Get replacement plates — legally
You will need new plates made. By law, any UK number plate supplier registered with the DVLA RNPS scheme must verify your identity and proof of entitlement before making replacement plates. Bring your V5C logbook and photo ID.
Step 5: Fit anti-theft screws
When fitting your new plates, use tamper-proof security screws instead of standard ones. These require special tools to remove and are a strong deterrent against repeat theft. For more ways to protect your plates, see our guide on preventing number plate cloning.
Step 6: Monitor for fines and alerts
Watch your post carefully over the coming weeks. If you receive any PCNs, speeding fines, or ULEZ charges you do not recognise, follow our guide on what to do if someone is using your number plate and appeal them immediately using your crime reference number. If you are registered with Protect A Plate, you will receive an instant alert if someone tries to have new plates made with your registration.
More help
Still have questions about cloning, fines, or your rights? Our number plate cloning FAQ answers the most common questions from UK drivers.