SPONSORED: With fines of up to £1,000 for number plate offences, can you afford to get your number plate wrong?

We've all seen cracked plates and dodgy personalised plates in not-that-cool font, but did you know there are actually strict rules concerning number plates?

General rules that need to be followed include:

• Number plates must be reflective and rear plates illuminated in the evening

• Registration numbers must be readable and not covered by dirt

• Number plates must be laid out in the correct size, colouring, font and spacing

• Owners cannot alter or rearrange numbers and lettering on their number plates

• Plates should follow the British Standard for number plates, including the trademark and postcode of the plate supplier

• No other images should be used on number plates except approved images, such as national flags

Wilco is able to produce number plates in store while-you-wait – it's the best way to know your plate is correct and legal. All branches are able to create standard style number plates (plain or GB) on either a white for front or yellow for rear plate using the latest in digital printers. Motorcycle and 4×4 plates, as well as oversize plates and Japanese import plates, are also available at some stores.

To get your new number plate made, you must provide two pieces of ID, one for yourself, such as;

• Photo Drivers license

• A utilities bill issued within the last six months

• A bank statement issued within the last six months

• Passport

• A debit card or credit card issued by bank or building society

NB If you do not have photo identification you will need to provide a utility bill also.

Plus you'll also need to prove the right of entitlement for the registration number in the form of a log book or, the New Keeper Supplement.

This feature has been sponsored by Wilco.