I think I might have to buy new L-plates for my bike as my back L-plate is cracked on one corner, meaning it can end up at an angle, slightly obscured by my number plate. While the L doesn’t get covered by the number plate, I’m concerned that if I turn up for my test, it might not be deemed “legal” and I’ll lose my test and fee.
I’ve got an identical L-plate on the front of the bike minus the crack.
Does a bike have to display an L-plate on the front?
I’m also thinking of just gaffer-taping the rear L-plate in place - any problems with part of the tape going onto the number plate if it doesn’t go near the letters?
You need them front and rear and, technically, you should not be covering up any of the white space. L-Plates are generally the size as dictated by law.
In reality, though, I’d have thought they’re not likely to make much of a fuss if you don’t cover much of it up. Many people hang them from punched holes.
One front and one rear of the proper size (7 inches square) … potentially 3 points and a fixed penalty notice for each improper/undisplayed plate.
People who cut down/away the white bit so they can stick it onto a panel/it “looks better” … don’t realise that if they are going to do that … they might as well just not display one as far as the penalty is concerned.
If I were you - I’d get a new one mate … only £1.50 and not worth it dropping off during your test and failing for something silly
Thanks for the offer Raquib. I’ll grab some next time I’m near a bike shop though - it’ll be cheaper than the time, effort and p&p costs to get them to me.
I think I would get the benefit of the doubt because the plates are still clearly visible, but I’m not going to take the chance for the sake of a couple of quid (or more if I got pulled by a cop having a crappy day)!
You can probably pick them up from a petrol station if going to a bike shop would mean going out of your way
I wouldn’t know where to look so far as law is concerned - but I was told at my CBT (last November) that you lose your certificate if you get 6 points … 3 points per plate and 3 points for not having your helmet fastened properly.
Could have been scare tactics but either way it’s not worth it.
