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UK Faces Road Safety Crisis Amid Surge in Ghost Plates

1/2/2026

47 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Fraudulent "ghost plates" are proliferating in the United Kingdom, estimated to be on about one in 15 vehicles.
They are often sold by Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)-registered suppliers, enabling criminals to evade detection.
MPs have called the vehicle registration system unfit for purpose and pressed for urgent reforms.
Birmingham has declared a road safety emergency linked to reckless driving tied to ghost plates.

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Story summary

Fraudulent "ghost plates" are proliferating in the United Kingdom, estimated to be on about one in 15 vehicles.
They are often sold by Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)-registered suppliers, enabling criminals to evade detection.
MPs have called the vehicle registration system unfit for purpose and pressed for urgent reforms.
Birmingham has declared a road safety emergency linked to reckless driving tied to ghost plates.