GHOST PLATE CRACKDOWN: TfL to introduce infrared number plate checks at annual taxi inspections from March 2026
- Perry Richardson
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Transport for London (TfL) are set to begin using infrared cameras to detect illegal number plates on licensed taxis and private hire vehicles from March 2026, as part of annual vehicle inspections, according to information shared with industry representatives.
The move follows ongoing compliance concerns identified in enforcement data, with illegal plates described as a continuing issue within the licensed fleet. New checks look set to take place at TfL inspection centres and form part of the standard annual vehicle inspection process.
The regulator will deploy specialist infrared camera technology designed to identify number plates that do not meet legal standards. Such plates can interfere with enforcement activity, including automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems used by authorities.
In addition to inspection centre checks, TfL confirmed it will continue on-street operations targeting vehicles suspected of displaying illegal plates. These roadside compliance exercises form part of wider licensing and enforcement activity across the capital.
Specialist cameras to be deployed at inspection centres as regulator warns repeated breaches could trigger licensing action
It was indicated that repeat breaches could have regulatory consequences. If licensed drivers were found to have illegal plates on multiple occasions, and this could result in licensing action. No further detail was provided on the threshold for enforcement escalation or potential penalties.
The development could have notable operational implications for taxi and private hire vehicle proprietors, who are responsible for ensuring vehicles meet licensing conditions at all times. Failure to comply risks not only fixed penalties under road traffic legislation but also action affecting licence status.
Separately, TfL look likely to publish an updated Vehicle Licensing Inspection Manual in the coming weeks. The revised document will include a new section detailing the number plate checking process. Other amendments are described as minor, including wording adjustments and updated references to legislation.
