Number plate theft

Stolen vehicle number plates are expensive to replace, and can be used by criminals to commit other crimes.

In addition, if you drive without number plates, you could be fined and receive demerit points.

Theft prevention information

Keep your number plates safe from potential theft.

Secure your number plates

Keep your number plates properly secured to your vehicle.

• Secure your plates with anti-theft screws or pop rivets.
• Anti-theft screws are fitted with a standard screwdriver but can only be removed with a special tool.

Park in a secure and well-lit area

Ensure you park your vehicle safely.

• Park off the street. A locked garage is best or off the street in your driveway if you don’t have a garage.
• If parked in a driveway, consider the installation of a sensor light.
• If you need to park on the street, park in a well-lit area.

What to do if your number plates have been stolen

If your number plates have been stolen, you must obtain a new set of plates from VicRoads.

You should then notify the following organisations of your new registration details:

• your insurance company
• your roadside assistance provider
• toll providers, such as EastLink or CityLink.

What to do if your number plates have been used illegally

If you receive a fine due to your number plates being used illegally:

• complete a statutory declaration outlining the situation
• contest the fine and attach the statutory declaration
• if you have received multiple fines, contact our Police Assistance Line on 131 444, or your local police station for further advice
• contact VicRoads to cancel your registration.

Report stolen number plates

For emergencies, to report a crime in progress, or for immediate police attendance, call Triple Zero (000).

Report stolen number plates to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444, as soon as possible.

Report anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

Resources

View additional resources on securing your number plates.

SafePL8

For information about our initiative to build community awareness around making number plates harder to steal, visit our SafePL8 page.