17Defaced or damaged number plate

17 Defaced or damaged number plate (1) If the number on a number plate becomes so defaced or damaged that it is not clearly legible, the owner of the motor vehicle or trailer to which the number plate is affixed must, within 14 days of the defacement or damage occurring, notify the Registrar. (2) The Registrar must, on payment by the owner of the prescribed fee in respect of the defaced or damaged number plate, issue to the owner: (a) if the plate was affixed to a motor vehicle, other than a motor cycle – 2 new number plates; or (b) otherwise – a new number plate. (3) On receipt of the new number plate or plates, the owner must immediately: (a) affix the plate or plates to the motor vehicle or trailer in accordance with section 16; and (b) return to the Registrar the number plate or plates previously affixed to the motor vehicle or trailer. Motor Vehicles Act 1949 24