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New security features on Victorian number plates – and what to do if yours are cloned or stolen

2 December 2025

Did you get a fine for a trip you didn’t take, or discover your plates were missing? Here’s what we’re doing to stop this – and what you should do. 

What’s plate cloning? 

Cloning is when someone copies your plate number and makes fake plates for another vehicle. They often use these to avoid tolls or fines. Cloning is illegal and it can leave you with penalties for trips you never made. 

What we’re doing about it:  

We’re working hard to make plates tougher to copy and easier to check. Since 2022, VicRoads has been working with the Department of Transport and Planning, Victoria Police and the Department of Justice and Community Safety to tackle plate crime. 

Here’s what’s changed: 

  • Security markings on plates – Directional markings make plates harder to copy and easier to authenticate. 
  • Smarter tech – Enhanced Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) helps detect misuse and supports enforcement. 

What to do if your plates are cloned: 

  1. Don’t pay the fine. If you get a notice for something you didn’t do, hold off on paying. 
  2. Report the theft to Victoria Police and keep the police report number. 
  3. Contact the issuing authority (who sent you the fine) and give them the police report number.   
  4. Replace your plates – Visit a VicRoads Customer Service Centre. We’ll guide you through getting a new set of plates and make the process as smooth as possible 

You don’t need to cancel your vehicle registration – once your new plates are fitted, you’re ready to go.

What to do if your plates are stolen: 

  1. Report the theft to Victoria Police and get a police report number. 
  2. Remove any remaining plate from your vehicle so it’s not misused. 
  3. Replace your plates – Visit a VicRoads Customer Service Centre. We’ll guide you through getting a new set of plates and make the process as smooth as possible 

No need to cancel your registration – we’ll update your details for you.

We know replacing plates can be inconvenient. That’s why we’re here to make it as easy and stress-free as possible. Our team will support you every step of the way.