Ghost plates are a growing concern on UK roads. “People deliberately modify these number plates to evade detection by speed cameras, ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) systems, and other enforcement technologies.” The modifications can include reflective sprays, transparent films, or physical alterations to the characters on the plate. When a camera tries to capture the number, the reflective material either bounces the light back or distorts the image. This makes the plate unreadable. Some drivers even use stealth covers or change the font and spacing to confuse the recognition software.
The appeal of ghost plates is clear. With one simple trick, drivers can make their vehicles invisible to speed cameras, congestion charge zones, and police surveillance. This has led to a surge in their use, especially in cities like London, where enforcement cameras are everywhere. Recent estimates suggest that as many as one in fifteen vehicles on UK roads may be using some form of number plate modification. During a London police exercise, it was discovered that almost 40% of private hire cars had ghost plate coatings that prevent law enforcement cameras from seeing them.
Why Do People Use Ghost Plates?
The main motivation for using ghost plates is to avoid detection and penalties. Drivers use them to dodge speeding fines, congestion charges, ULEZ fees, and even tolls. For some, it is about saving money, but for others, it is a way to hide more serious crimes. Criminals use ghost plates to avoid being tracked, drive stolen vehicles, commit hit-and-runs, or operate without insurance. The ease of obtaining these modifications is alarming. “People can buy reflective sprays and stealth covers online for as little as £30, making this illegal practice accessible to almost anyone.”
Many drivers are unaware of the legal risks. A recent survey found that over 40% of drivers did not know that modifying or obscuring their number plates could lead to legal trouble. However, the risks go beyond fines. Ghost plates undermine road safety. Dangerous drivers can operate with impunity, putting everyone at risk.
The Impact on Law Enforcement and Public Safety
The widespread use of ghost plates poses a significant challenge for law enforcement. ANPR cameras are a key tool for catching offenders, collecting tolls, and preventing crime. When drivers use ghost plates, they exploit a loophole in the system. This results in lost revenue for councils and the government. It also makes it harder to catch criminals and uninsured drivers. The problem is not limited to minor offences. Ghost plates are often found on vehicles involved in serious crimes, including hit-and-runs and theft.
With over 15,000 traffic cameras in the UK reading up to 80 million plates daily, even a small percentage of unreadable plates can mean millions of missed detections. This undermines the effectiveness of road safety measures. Honest drivers are at a disadvantage.
Government Initiatives and Crackdown Efforts
The UK government and local authorities are taking the threat of ghost plates seriously. Recent months have seen a push for tougher penalties and new technology to combat the problem. MPs like Sarah Coombes have called for fines of up to £1,000 and six penalty points for drivers caught using ghost plates. Currently, the penalty is only £100, which many believe is not enough to deter offenders. There are also calls to ban the sale of reflective sprays and stealth covers.
On the technology front, councils are investing in next-generation ANPR systems. These new cameras use polarised lenses, multi-angle capture, and artificial intelligence to spot anomalies in number plates. They can detect reflective coatings, altered fonts, and subtle tampering that would fool older systems. Companies like MAV Systems have launched AI-powered cameras that can process millions of reads daily. They flag suspicious plates in real time.
Police forces are also stepping up roadside inspections. “Officers now use handheld scanners to check plate authenticity and receive training to spot signs of tampering or cloning. The government supports these efforts with a wider road safety strategy and is working on its first new plan in a decade.”
Public Awareness and Enforcement Challenges
Despite the government’s efforts, challenges remain in enforcing regulations against ghost plates. The availability of modified plates online and the lack of stringent controls on their sale make it difficult to curb this practice. Public awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement are essential to combat the misuse of ghost plates. These measures can ensure compliance with traffic laws.