The sneaky number plate accessory that could land motorists in jail

Exclusive: Experts have warned that a stealthy number plate accessory available online could carry a hefty sentence for Aussie motorists - if they dare to use it.

Remote-controlled tinted or reflective covers can instantly hide a plate. However, using them to dodge speed cameras or tolls in Australia carries severe penalties, including up to 14 years behind bars.

Astor Legal principal lawyer Avinash Singh said that while they are not illegal to have installed, they became an issue once they obscure a number plate.

“The exact requirements vary between states, but in most jurisdictions number plates must remain clearly visible and legible from up to 20 metres away, including the states of NSW, Victoria and Queensland,” he told nine.com.au.

The waterproof plate covers can be found online for about $250, promising to provide a car with “a sleek, factory-like appearance” in 15 minutes.

Some overseas sites seen by nine.com.au, that claim to have sold more than 7000 of the products, offer the covers in “Australian number plate sizes” and have multiple reviews from Aussie buyers.

They promise that one push of the wireless remote can conceal a number plate in as little as 0.01 milliseconds.

While they don’t specify a purpose for the covers, listings promote them as blocking “all camera flashes” to keep plates obscured.

The US-hosted site explicitly condones using the device on public roads and says that users are responsible for complying with their local laws, noting that the covers are strictly for off-road use.

Singh warned that the offence of intentionally dodging camera detection could result in up to 14 years behind bars.

“If police can prove a driver deliberately modified their number plate to avoid detection by speed cameras or toll roads, they could potentially face the criminal offence of perverting the course of justice,” he said.

“The fact that these products are sold does not make them legal to use.”

He added that the onus is on drivers to ensure their plates are clearly visible and in line with state requirements.

“These offences are generally ones of absolute liability, meaning a driver cannot rely on not knowing the law as a defence.”

Obscured or ineligible plates are a nationwide offence that can carry heavy fines and loss of demerit points.

In NSW, fines of up to $562 and three demerit points apply for drivers with plates that don’t meet legal standards.

“Number plate covers must be clear, clean, untinted and flat over the entire surface, and have no reflective or other characteristics that would prevent the successful operation of traffic offence detection devices.”