Be careful with the number plate: tampering with this element can cost €6,000

There are parts of the car that do not affect how the vehicle works but are very important. This is because they serve to identify the car, so they must be kept in order and in perfect condition. The number plate is one of these elements that must always be in perfect condition and not tampered with.

The number plate identifies the vehicle and provides a lot of information about it, so it is important that it is visible and legible, without tampering or serious imperfections. The two plates of the number plate must be approved and made by authorised workshops. Furthermore, they must be placed in the correct location: at the front and at the rear and, of course, be identical.

Sometimes the number plate can be hit in a way that causes some damage to it. Although you should know that if it does not affect the legibility of the plate, it is not necessary to replace it, although it is advisable when the number is not clear and could cause confusion.

If there is any problem identifying the number on one of the two number plates, the fine can amount to €200, although this penalty does not carry a points deduction. It does not need to be broken or badly damaged. It is enough for the plate to be very dirty and for this dirt to prevent the correct reading of the number plate.

But the harshest penalty applies when it is detected that the number plate has been tampered with. Whether it is the number, the letters or any other element shown on the plate. If an officer of the Guardia Civil or any other security force detects this problem, they can fine the vehicle owner €6,000 and the deduction of 6 points from the driving licence.

It is not worth risking any of these penalties, so if the number plate is in poor condition and it is difficult to identify the numbers on it, you must go to a workshop and request a new plate. The cost is very low and avoids future problems.

Number plate curiosities

As a curiosity, we remind you that in Spain number plates have 4 digits and three letters. The letters are all consonants and there are no vowels. This avoids problems with offensive words or an erroneous interpretation (such as ANO) and acronyms of official bodies (such as CNI). In addition, names such as ANA and other combinations that may be confusing are avoided.

The letters Q and Ñ are not used either, since the first can be confused with the O and the Ñ is not used in international alphabets, so its use is limited to Spain and it is not used on number plates. This demonstrates the importance of number plates and explains why they must always be visible.