Talk Morgan Forums Thread Like Summary - Number plate

We have a 1991 Plus Four which we have had from new, supplied direct to us from the factory. Last week the MOTwas due and the garage said that we should alter the rear number plate as it was partly obscured by the bumper. Well I have to say this is correct but what puzzles me is that for the last 33 years it has been deemed o.k. until now. I thought that if it was supplied from new like that there is some sort of type approval which makes it o.k. I have looked on the government site and it does say that the number plate should not be obscured but that’s today - it surely must have been ok in 1991.
If I move the plate onto the bumper I shall have to alter the lights but the mechanic suggests that I should just drill a couple of new holes lower down the on the plate to just drop it down a bit which is easier and probably what I shall do as long as it does not ride too low down. He says that he’s not just being picky but if I get pulled over for it that it could reflect on him. But again this has not happened in the past.
I realise that I shall have to make some sort of adjustment but would be interested to know if (1) there has been some sort of recent alteration in regulations and (2) just for interest how could I find out what the rules are regarding type approval. Anyone got any views or ideas. Thanks, Lesley.

Welcome to TM. This was never raised as an issue when we owned a 1985 4/4 which, I expect, had the same arrangement. That car was always MOT’d by someone who was used to Morgans and their foibles.

As per the above comment - change your MOT station - if this is something he picks up, it is possible that he could have missed something that actually matters!

Just tell the tester to stand the required eye test distance behind the car! Assuming his eyesight is not defective, he'll be able to read it