Driving a car that features dirty number plates is considered against the Highway Code since it restricts road users, authorities and traffic cameras from identifying the vehicle.
In addition to being stopped by a police officer, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras can also catch road users breaking this law.
Motorists caught behind the wheel of a car with a dirty or covered number plate can face fines of up to £1,000 and three penalty points on their driving licence.
LKQ Euro Car Parts reassured motorists that they do not need to clean the whole vehicle, but should regularly wash the number plates for it to remain legal.
They added: “If you don’t have time to clean your whole vehicle, make sure to check your numberplate on a regular basis and give it a quick wash down with a sponge and some soapy water so it remains legible and within regulations.
“This should only take a minute or two, and can mean you avoid a hefty fine.”
Like the rest of the bodywork, it is best to apply warm and soapy water to the number plate, avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage the plastic plate.
