The World of 3D, 4D & 5D Plates Explained
With the rising popularity of custom registration plates, drivers now have more choice than ever in terms of style, depth, and finish. But what actually separates 3D, 4D, and 5D number plates — and which one’s right for your car?
Let’s break it down clearly
What Are 3D Number Plates?
3D Gel Plates feature letters made from high-gloss resin gel layered onto an acrylic plate.
The characters have a smooth, curved surface that catches the light beautifully, giving the plate a sleek, premium appearance.
How They’re Made:
Each letter is printed onto a base, coated with polyurethane resin, and cured to form a domed, raised texture.
The Look:
Soft, glossy, and elegant — ideal for a clean, luxury style that complements any car, from everyday hatchbacks to performance models.
Legality:
Road legal
What Are 4D Number Plates?
4D Plates are the next step up in depth and precision.
Instead of resin, these use laser-cut acrylic characters mounted onto the plate surface.
The letters have a sharp, block-edged look that stands out under any lighting.
How They’re Made:
Each letter is cut from solid acrylic using a precision laser, then bonded onto the reflective plate using industrial adhesive.
The Look:
Crisp, bold, and modern — the raised edges give a “floating” 3D effect that really turns heads.
Legality:
Road legal when produced with standard black acrylic and compliant markings.
Not legal if tinted, coloured, or using unapproved fonts.
What Are 5D Number Plates?
5D Plates combine the depth of 4D with the gloss of 3D.
They feature laser-cut acrylic characters (like 4D), but each letter is then coated or overlaid with a gel resin to create extra shine and curvature.
How They’re Made:
The acrylic letters are cut and applied, then covered with a 3D gel layer for that ultra-premium finish.
The Look:
Deep, reflective, and dimensional — a mix of crisp lines and wet-look gloss. They give your car a high-end, custom aesthetic.