Japanese Import Number Plate Sizes – Are They Legal in the UK?
, by Reece Dennis, 3 min reading time
Japanese import vehicles have become increasingly popular in the UK, from performance cars and classic JDM models to imported vans and 4x4s. However, one of the most common questions new owners ask is about Japanese import number plate sizes and whether they are actually legal for UK roads.
What Size Are Japanese Import Number Plates?
Most Japanese vehicles are designed to use square or smaller number plates, which differ from standard UK rectangular plates. These plates are typically:
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Shorter and taller than UK standard plates
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Square-shaped, often around 330mm x 165mm
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Designed to fit recessed mounting areas on Japanese vehicles
Because of this, many imported cars physically cannot fit a standard UK plate without modification, which is where confusion often arises.
Are Japanese Import Plates Legal in the UK?
Yes — Japanese import plates can be legal in the UK, but only if they fully comply with DVLA regulations.
To be road legal, your number plate must still meet UK rules, including:
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Correct UK font (Charles Wright)
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Legal spacing and character sizing
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Reflective material (white front, yellow rear)
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Supplier postcode and BS AU 145e marking
The size of the plate itself is allowed to be smaller or square only if a standard UK plate cannot physically fit the vehicle. This is commonly accepted for Japanese imports with factory-designed plate recesses.
What Is Not Legal on Japanese Import Plates?
Even though the size may differ, some popular styling choices are not road legal, including:
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Japanese-style fonts or spacing
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Decorative borders or symbols
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Non-reflective backgrounds
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Sticker or vinyl plates
It’s important to note that imported vehicles must still follow UK plate laws, regardless of how plates are displayed in Japan.
Can You Use 3D or 4D Plates on Japanese Imports?
Yes — 3D gel plates and 4D plates can be legal on Japanese imports, provided they follow DVLA regulations.
Many owners choose 3D or 4D styles to enhance the look of their import while remaining compliant. These styles are particularly popular on:
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JDM cars
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Japanese vans
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Performance imports
As long as the raised characters meet spacing, font, and reflectivity requirements, they are perfectly acceptable.
Final Thoughts
Japanese import number plates don’t have to be illegal — they just need to be made correctly. Choosing the right size for your vehicle while sticking to DVLA-approved standards ensures your import stays road legal and MOT-friendly.
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to use a trusted UK supplier who understands import sizing and DVLA compliance rather than opting for novelty or show-only plates.
FAQs: Japanese Import Number Plate Sizes (UK)
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Are Japanese import number plates a different size to UK plates?
Are Japanese import number plates a different size to UK plates?
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Can Japanese import plates be square in the UK?
Yes. Square plates are legal in the UK when the vehicle design requires them — commonly seen on Japanese imports, 4x4s, and some commercial vehicles.
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Can I use a Japanese-style font on my UK plate?
No. Japanese fonts are not legal in the UK. Even on imported vehicles, plates must use the UK-prescribed font to remain road legal.
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Why do so many Japanese imports use square plates?
Japanese vehicles are often designed for compact rear spaces, especially on kei cars, SUVs, and performance imports. Square plates allow proper fitment without altering the bodywork.
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