Can ANPR Cameras Read 4D Number Plates?

Can ANPR Cameras Read 4D Number Plates?

There are lots of rumours, myths and legends about 4D number plates.

One that we are going to address today is ‘Can ANPR cameras read 4D number plates?’. Unfortunately… we don’t think you’ll like the answer.

What Are ANPR Cameras?

ANPR cameras (Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras) are used to read a vehicle's reg. The cameras can do this whilst the vehicle is travelling at speed, or whilst it is stationary.

ANPR cameras are used to enforce a range of traffic rules like:

  • Speeding
  • Travelling in congestion charge zones
  • Travelling in ULEZ zones
  • Using bus lanes
  • Using box junctions
  • Tolls/bridges
  • Car parking usage

The ANPR technology is used by Law Enforcement agencies, including the police as well as local authorities, the DVLA and private companies (like private car park management firms). 

Why Do People Think ANPR Cameras CAN’T Read 4D Number Plates?

Many people have wrongly assumed that the raised characters block the light and infrared used by the cameras, meaning they can’t scan the vehicle reg.

Many people have also wrongly assumed that 4D plates are not legal, and so ANPR cameras can’t read them as they are not programmed to make out the characters.

But unfortunately for 4D number plate owners, both of these assumptions are incorrect!

4D plates are perfectly legal, as long as they:

  • Meet all other BS AU 145e requirements
  • Are made from reflective material with non-reflective solid black lettering
  • Have no background patterns

So, ANPR cameras are capable of reading 4D number plates.

When Might an ANPR Camera NOT Work?

Although ANPR camera technology is very advanced, certain things might hinder the camera’s ability to read a plate (the plate being 4D not being one of those things).

Registration misreadings can happen because of:

  • Too much glare/bright light
  • Dirt on the number plate which obstructs the reading
  • Poor lighting
  • Objects obscuring part of the plate
  • Strong weather like rain or fog
  • Illegally positioned screws or bolts, which can make the characters look like something else

So, Can ANPR Cameras Read 4D Number Plates?

Yes, ANPR cameras can most certainly read 4D number plates. So if you think you can get away with speeding, overstaying your parking, driving in a bus lane, or not paying your congestion charge… think again!

Back to blog