Penalty or norm? Do you need to carry standard number plates if you have personalised ones?

Personalised number plates are becoming increasingly popular among Ukrainian drivers, but with them comes confusion about the rules. Many people are still unsure whether the absence of standard number plates on a car is considered a violation and whether it can result in a fine. Find out when personalised number plates are legal and in which cases standard number plates are required

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More and more car owners in Ukraine are choosing personalised number plates to make their cars stand out and add individuality. However, after installing such plates, drivers often have a practical question: is the absence of standard number plates on a car considered a violation and can it lead to a fine? An explanation on this matter was provided by the Main Service Centre of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

What is a personalised number plate?

A personalised number plate (INZ) is an additional number plate with a unique combination of letters and numbers, which is made to order by the vehicle owner. After it is manufactured, the information is entered into the Unified State Register of Vehicles and reflected in the registration certificate. This is the key point for the legal use of INZ on the road.

Do you need to carry standard number plates with you

If the car has individual number plates, there is no obligation to carry standard state number plates with you. They can be stored separately by the owner and are not required for everyday use of the vehicle in Ukraine. Thus, the absence of standard number plates in the boot is not a violation and does not entail a fine.

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When standard number plates are still needed

Personalised number plates are only valid within Ukraine. When travelling abroad, the car must be equipped with the number plates issued at the time of initial registration. In addition, standard number plates may be required in situations where the personalised plate is temporarily removed, lost or damaged, as well as when carrying out any registration procedures with the vehicle.

To avoid controversial situations on the road, it is important for the driver to ensure that the personalised number plate is officially manufactured, that information about it is entered in the Unified State Register of Vehicles, and that the relevant information is indicated in the registration certificate. Only when these conditions are met is the personalised number plate considered completely legal.

How to apply for a personalised number plate

You can order a personalised number plate at MIA service centres or online through the Driver's Cabinet. Before applying, it is recommended to check the availability of the desired combination of characters and its compliance with the established requirements. This will help you avoid rejection and save time during registration.

Civil liability insurance is necessary for the legal use of a vehicle on Ukrainian roads, and it is convenient to purchase a policy online before registering the car through Visit Ukraine — this saves time and avoids unnecessary formalities.

Reminder! Ukraine plans to launch digital customs clearance of cars through the ‘Dія’ app. Find out how the new system will work, what the customs value of a car will depend on, and how automation will change the process of importing cars from abroad.

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