For many years, if your number plate spelled out a name or resembled a well-known word, it was simply a matter of luck. Issued by the DVLA without any consideration for this, getting a plate now considered popular was a completely random coincidence.

Over time, dealers in second-hand number plates began to see trends in the kinds of plates people were buying and the amounts of money they were willing to part with to purchase them. Some plates were clearly viewed as being more valuable than others and dealers in plates began buying and selling them based on certain attributes.

While what makes a number plate valuable can depend on the purchaser’s perspective, there are some clear reasons why some registrations are more sought-after than others. Number plates may be bought and sold for significant amounts for a variety of reasons, sometimes, the number plate may be worth more than the value of the vehicle.

What’s the value of my number plate?

To get an idea of your number plate’s value, the first step is to consider the desired qualities in registrations and see if yours ticks any of these boxes.

Demand is the major factor affecting the price a plate may sell for. The more buyers are interested in your registration, the higher the amount you’ll receive for it. You may find you have many potential buyers competing to purchase your plate and this can drive up the selling price.

The age of a number plate can also be an important aspect of how valuable a plate is. The earliest number plates, sometimes referred to as dateless plates, are often highly desirable. Unlike the current registrations issued, as well as the prefix and suffix style plates that preceded them, these early plates include no age indicator. For car owners who wish to keep their vehicle’s age a secret, this can be a powerful selling point.

Shorter registrations are also highly prized. While mainly this is due to them being older number plates, there are other reasons as well why a plate with fewer characters might be considered more valuable. It’s legal to have the width of your number plate shortened providing it still possesses the appropriate margin around the characters. A smaller number of alphanumeric characters makes for a smaller plate, allowing more of the car that carries it to be seen.

Finally, if the characters on a number plate resemble a name, or popular phrase or word, this can also hike the value. The more closely it resembles the name or word, the more highly it’s likely to be valued.

How do I value my number plate?

The first step in selling a number plate is to make sure you get an accurate valuation of its worth.

Valuing a number plate on your own can take time, patience and in-depth research. A far faster and easier way to complete the process is getting expert assistance from a number plate specialist like New Reg. With our simple-to-use contact form, you can send us your registration along with some essential contact details and our team of experts will get to work. With a wealth of experience and knowledge from buying and selling number plates, we’re perfectly placed to make a plate valuation for you.

We’ll email you our assessment and let you know what your plate is worth, and if you agree, you can go ahead and sell via us. While we hope you’ll do this, you’re under absolutely no obligation to sell through us, so there really is nothing to lose by getting in touch.

While travelling on UK roads, you may have seen some variations when it comes to motorcycle number plates. From black and silver plates positioned across the front wheel, to some that use no plate at all at the bike’s front, not all motorcycles carry the same style of reg. Another element that varies is motorcycle number plate size.

You might have come across a motorbike with a very small plate at the rear – so small that both the authorities and other motorists would struggle to read it. On seeing such a plate, you might wonder if the rider is breaking UK law and question exactly what is the standard size of a motorcycle number plate? Read on for a wealth of information that will help you make certain you stay on the right side of the law.

In the UK, we have very specific rules that govern the size of these plates, so if you see a motorcycle with a tiny plate, the chances are the owner is in breach of the law.

What is the legal size of a motorcycle number plate?

The standard size of a plate is most commonly nine inches by seven inches in total. While there is no exact ruling on plate size, the letters it contains must always follow this sizing correctly. Since 2001, all the characters on motorcycle registrations have been required to be 64mm in height with a width of 44mm. The exceptions to this rule are the number 1 and the letter I.

There are also rules regarding how thick the letters are, along with the distance between letters. Both the stroke and the spacing must measure 10mm. The gap that separates the age identifier numerals and the randomly selected letters must measure 30mm and the distance between the two text lines at bottom and top are required to be 13mm. Lastly, 11mm of space must be left between the edge of a number plate and the characters it displays.

UK motorcycle number plate law

Motorbikes registered prior to September 1st 2001 are entitled to spread text on three lines if preferred, but displaying a registration on a single line is illegal. Motorcycles registered after or on September 1st 2001 can only display their number plates at the rear of the bike. Older models may display their registration at the front, but this is optional. Further information regarding motorcycle plate lighting.

Characters and colours of legal motorcycle plates

As with car registrations in the UK, the two alphabetic characters on a plate refer to the region where a bike was originally registered. These are followed by an age indicator created by taking the last two digits of the year the bike was registered in, or by adding 50 to this number if it was issued in the second half of the period. The last three letters on a bike plate are random. Those buying a brand new bike can select these characters themselves and use them to reflect their brand of bike or even their own initials. To be within the law, the registration should be spread over two separate lines and be presented on a square number plate.

As with car registrations, these rear plates on bikes must be presented in black characters on a yellow plate crafted from reflective material.

To ensure your motorcycle number plate meets the conditions set out in law, it’s worth purchasing through an experienced dealer like New Reg. We’ll ensure your motorcycle number plate matches all relevant criteria, helping you to avoid paying fines or failing your annual MOT test. Fines can be as high as £1,000, so it’s well worth making sure your plate is legal.

Over my 35 years in the number plate industry, one question I often hear is, “What do I need to do to buy a number plate? ”

Whether you’re looking for standard number plates made to a high quality or custom number plates to personalise your vehicle, understanding the process can make it much smoother. As the founder of NewReg.co.uk, and a nationally recognised number plate maker, I’m here to guide you through everything you need to know.

Understanding Physical Plates vs. Personalised Registrations

First, it’s essential to distinguish between the physical number plate and the registration number.

• Physical Number Plates. These are the acrylic or aluminium plates attached to your car. They display your registration number and must comply with UK laws to ensure they are legal. New Reg is registered with DVLA to supply you with official, legal new number plates.
• Personalised Registrations. This is the unique combination of letters and numbers that identifies your vehicle. Subject to availability, you can design your own personalised registration number to make your car stand out. It’s this limitation of desired combinations, the fact that there’s only one of each specific registration, coupled with the ability to transfer, that creates the registration industry.

Section 1 – Buying Physical Plates from a Number Plate Maker

When you need new car number plates made, perhaps due to damage or after purchasing a personalised registration, you’ll need to buy from a number plate maker. But, before you start searching ‘number plate maker near me’, here’s what you need to know.

What Docs You’ll Need to Buy Physical New Plates

1. Proof of Identity.Driving Licence or Passport Valid identification is required to confirm your identity. Note: A Rates Bill, Council Tax form, Bank or Building Society Statement will not suffice. It’s you that needs validation, not your address.
2. Proof of Entitlement.Registration Certificate (V5C) Also known as the logbook, this document proves you’re entitled to display the registration number.Keeper Supplement (V5C/2) If you’ve just purchased the car and don’t yet have the full V5C, the New Keeper Supplement will suffice.
3. Number Plate Authorisation Certificate (V948).Issued by the DVLA, this certificate may be required if you don’t have the V5C or are using a temporary registration certificate.
4. Document Reference Number.Found on your V5C or V5C/2, this number is necessary for verification.

Choosing a ‘Cheap’ Number Plate Maker Near You

Selecting a registered number plate maker ensures your plates are legal and high quality, cheap local suppliers don’t always guarantee this. At NewReg.co.uk, we are an official DVLA registered number plate supplier committed to quality and customer service. Our standard number plates are manufactured to meet all legal UK registration plates standards, ensuring they are compliant.

We are in essence a ‘local store’, as we can deliver your new car number plates to your door next day, in most circumstances, so there really is no need to get into the traffic to visit a number plate maker near you!

Customising Your Plates

You might opt for standard registration plates or prefer custom car number plates made to add a personal touch.

Options include:

• Plate Style: Standard rectangle, square number plates, or bespoke plates to suit your vehicle’s design. You’ll be able to personalise your options here and have number plates made to your exact specification. (subject to the legal parameters)
• Text Styles: While maintaining legal requirements, you can choose from approved font designs.
• Additional Features: Add a green stripe for electric vehicles or national flags, as permitted by UK road laws.
• You should avoid squeezing characters together or using illegal font types, as doing so will subject you to a fine.

Section 2 Purchasing the ‘Rights’ to a Personalised Registration

If you’re interested in a personalised registration to make your car truly unique, here’s how to acquire one.

How to Buy a Personalised Registration

1. Search for Your Desired Registration.

Visit NewReg.co.uk to explore millions of combinations from our extensive range of private plates. When you’ve made your choice, simply follow our online prompts and you’ll speed through everything you need for us to complete the transfer.  Follow these steps to buy a number plate.

2. Required Documents.

You’ll need the Reg Certificate (V5C), to assign the registration to your car.

If applicable, ensure your vehicle has a valid MOT, this is a required criteria.

Vehicle Tax is also required, or alternatively a valid Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN).

3. Transfer Process.

If you choose, New Reg can handle the entire bureaucracy and transfer process with DVLA Swansea on your behalf, making it seamless for you.

4. Fees.

Let’s address the Government fee, that some hopeful buyers think is optional! The £80 fee is always payable to the Vehicle Licensing Agency for the transfer OR retention of the registration, it is unavoidable.

Number Retention Document and Assignment

Retention Certificate (V750 or V778).

If you’re not ready to assign the registration immediately, you can retain it on a certificate for up to 10 years. When a mark is on retention, you should make a record of the expiry date in your diary as a renewal reminder is not always sent.

Assignment to a Vehicle.

When ready, New Reg can assist in assigning your registration mark from certificate to your vehicle, ensuring all legal requirements are met.

‘Things’ to Consider

Legal Requirements.

You cannot make a car appear newer than it actually is. For example, you can’t assign a ’25’ plate to a car registered in 2023, because this would make the 2-year old car look brand new.

Cost.

Prices for personalised reg’s vary widely, depending on their desirability. Prices start from £100 and can exceed £1,000,000 for something like A1, the ultimate ‘work of art’.

Why Choose NewReg.co.uk as Your Custom Number Plate Maker

As a well-known maker of replacement plates and supplier of private plates, we offer:

• Exceptional Customer Service. Our team is dedicated to helping you every step of the way.
• High-Quality Number Plates. We use premium materials to ensure your plates have a sleek finish and durability.
• Legal Compliance. All our plates meet the standards set by the DVLA.

Custom Number Plates and Personalisation Options

Custom number plates allow you to express your personality.

Options include:

• Custom Plates for Electric Vehicles. Add a green stripe to signify your eco-friendly choice. ( AKA Green number plates, the official stamp for EV cars!)
• Bespoke Plates. Tailor the size and shape to fit unique plate styles on certain vehicles.
• Number Plate Builder. Use our online number plate builder to visualise your legal UK number plates.

Replacement Number Plates

If your existing plates are damaged or lost, we can provide replacement number plates.

You’ll need:

• Proof of Identity as mentioned earlier, such as a driving licence or passport.
• Proof of entitlement, your V5C or number plate authorisation certificate.

Legal UK Number Plates & Compliance

It’s crucial to ensure your private number plates are road legal. This involves

• Approved Fonts and Sizes compliant with UK regulations, on character size and spacing.
• Officially stamped plates that must display the manufacturer’s name and postcode.
• Reflective material for visibility, especially at night.

Additional New Reg Services

• New Reg provide sticky pads for easy and secure attachment of your plates.
• If you want to sell registration numbers, New Reg can assist with that process too.
• If you are a hire company or a fleet operator, our team will try to find a ‘range’ of complimentary unique combinations to address your business needs.
• New Reg offer a match price on demand scheme, otherwise known as our price promise. Where we match the price offered by any other supplier for previously unissued stock.

 Knowledge Summary.

Your vehicle registration certificate is a vital document, it contains:

• Registration Details: Your car’s registration number, make, model, and other identifiers.
• Document Reference Number: Used for verification when purchasing private number plates.

Road Legal Requirements & UK Road Laws

Adhering to UK laws ensures your car remains road legal

• Display Requirements: Legal UK Number plates must be clearly displayed on the front and rear of the vehicle.
• Legal UK Numberplates must conform to standards set by the Vehicle Standards Agency.

The Importance of Using a Trusted Number Plate Supplier

By choosing a trusted number plate maker like NewReg.co.uk, you benefit from

• Compliance with Regulations: We ensure your plates meet all legal requirements.
• High-Quality Number Plates: Manufactured using premium materials for durability.
• Exceptional Customer Service: Our team is always here to assist with your enquiries.

Tips for Maintaining Your Number Plates

• Regular Cleaning: Keep your plates clean to ensure they are legible.
• Secure Attachment: Use provided sticky pads or screws to securely attach your plates.
• Check for Damage: Replacement number plates will be necessary if they become damaged to remain compliant.

It became compulsory for cars in the UK to carry plates back in the early 20th century when the Motor Car Act was passed. Since then, number plates have consisted of at least one letter and one number. These alphanumeric codes were developed in order to provide the authorities, along with other motorists, with a way to identify the vehicles involved in collisions or crimes.

While all cars contain a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) stamped into certain parts like the engine block and chassis, number plates provide a far easier form of identification. Positioned at both the front and rear of vehicles, these easy-to-read plates are much simpler to spot, especially when a vehicle is on the move.

The current format of UK number plates issued includes a total of seven letters and numbers. Two letters are followed by two numbers and then three more letters to complete the index marks. While sometimes the way the letters and numbers are placed next to each other resembles words or phrases, for the most part they appear entirely random. However, if you know how to read a registration, you can tell a lot about a car with a quick glance at its plate.

If you’ve just purchased your new car with its own registration, you might be asking “what does my number plate mean?” Read on to discover the wealth of information to be found in the letters and numbers your car is sporting in its personal reg.

What do the numbers on a number plate mean?

While at one time the numbers on a plate showed simply the sequential order they’d been registered in for their specific region, today’s format uses two digits as an age indicator. These two numbers are designed to let those looking at a vehicle quickly know its age. To attempt to make an older car look younger with a newer registration is illegal.

Number plates are issued in two batches each year in spring and autumn. Plates released in the first launch take their third and fourth characters from the last two digits of the year date. For example, a plate issued in the first release for 2019 will feature a one and nine. To show a plate comes from the second batch, the year date digits are again employed but 50 is added to them. An autumn plate for 2019 would therefore show a six and nine.

If you understand how to read the age indicator, you can tell how old a car is to within six months.

What do number plate letters mean?

There are two groups of letters on the latest style of number plate – two at the very start of the registration and three at the end.

The first two letters on a plate indicate where the vehicle was first registered. Here at New Reg, you can use our helpful tables and innovative search facility to find out where your car hails from at a glance. You can look up the two-letter code and narrow down where it was registered to a very specific region. Previous formats were far more difficult to work out, with letters nominated sometimes by importance – for example, London registrations would begin with A as it was the capital city. Today, London number plates start with an L.

The three letters that end registrations are issued sequentially to dealerships selling vehicles. As they tend to be issued in massive batches, you’ll often find same make and model cars with similar registrations. The characters are used to differentiate cars from each other when they were registered in the same region and are of identical age. It is these three characters that make them unique and easy to identify.

The majority of modern number plates are generally made of acrylic, which is a type of plastic. However, acrylic isn’t the only material which has been used to create number plates. One other form of number plate you might be familiar with are aluminium number plates – sometimes referred to as pressed number plates.

The legality of these aluminium number plates however is something which isn’t entirely straightforward, and largely depends on factors such as how old your vehicle is, and when it was first registered. You may be interested in aluminium plates. You might even own an older vehicle which has these plates, but you’re unsure whether it is legally allowed on the road with them.

Whatever your situation, we’ve put together an overview of aluminium pressed metal plates, and we’ll also take a look at whether they are legal for your vehicle.

Aluminium pressed number plates – what are they?

Aluminium pressed metal number plates are essentially exactly what they sound like – they’re a type of number plate made out of aluminium. The ‘pressed’ part is referring to the letters and numbers they display, which are physically raised from the background through a process known as pressing.

Many drivers today find these plates to be aesthetically appealing, preferring them to the standard acrylic white and yellow number plates. They are especially popular on retro vehicles – especially when the vehicle’s country of origin allowed pressed plates at the time the car was manufactured. For instance, lots of people in the retro VW scene try to replicate the German pressed plates of the 80s or 90s.

As such, a wide variety of drivers are interested in using pressed aluminium plates on their vehicles. That brings us to the main question – is it legal to drive with aluminium number plates?

Are aluminium pressed number plates legal?

At one point in time, pressed plates were the standard type of number plate issued to cars. However, from March 2001 onward, rules regarding pressed aluminium plates changed. In that month, a new British Standard – BS AU 145D – was introduced, which went over exactly number plates have to be displayed for cars registered since then. This standard went on to be updated to the BS AU 145E in September 2021, where the rules surrounding aluminium number plates remained the same.

An aluminium pressed number plate would not meet the requirements of modern number plates, despite the rules not stating outright that pressed metal plates are illegal. In order for them to be road legal, number plates need to be made out of inherently reflective material – they can not have material or a coating added to them to make them reflective after the fact. Pressed aluminium plates made reflective in this way are referred to as being made ‘retroactively reflective’, and as we said, are not legally permitted.

Being inherently reflective is just one of the standards that pressed aluminium number plates don not meet. The rules also state that number plates must be resistant to bending. Pressed metal number plates are not flexible enough to retake their original shape if they end up getting bend out of it.

With all of this taken into consideration, any pressed metal number plates would not meet the standards to be considered legal for cars registered after March 2021. Whilst in the future there may be pressed plates that abide by the rules, being reflective and resistant to being bent out of shape, but as of right now, that’s certainly not the case. In order to ensure your number plates are road legal, make sure that you always purchase them from a specialist such as New Reg – it’s the best way to have confidence in your plates.

As we mentioned earlier though, at one point in time, aluminium number plates were the standard issued plates for cars. Due to this, the legality of aluminium number plates is actually very different depending on what car you own. It all comes down to what year your car was first registered in the UK.

When exactly are pressed metal plates legal?

While white and yellow acrylic plates are the standard in this day and age, cars registered in the UK in 1972 and earlier would have been issued with aluminium number plates. You may have seen these black pressed aluminium plates, featuring silver characters, still being used on the road today. The reason that they are still able to be read, despite aluminium not being an inherently reflective material, is that they are made retroactively reflective.

Cars from this time period are still allowed to use these kinds of number plates as they are deemed to be ‘classic cars’. However, the plates used by classic cars must still abide to the rules which were in place at the specific time they were issued.

Pressed metal number plates and classic cars

Vehicles which are considered ‘classic cars’ – that is, cars older than 40 which haven’t been subject to substantial modification – have a fair number of perks, many of which are related to the kind of number plates they are legally permitted to use. As we mentioned, cars which were registered during 1972 and earlier are legally allowed to make use of black and silver aluminium plates.

Vehicles from even earlier than this – from before the 1950s – are legally allowed to use black and white painted aluminium number plates. The font used on these classic number plates is also a slightly different size than modern plates. Going back even further than that, cars registered during or before the 1930s can use cast aluminium plates, forged from molten aluminium!

The perks of owning a classic car don’t stop there though. Any car the DVLA considers to be classic is not required to pay road tax. They also do not have to take part in an annual MOT test. However, they are still required to be able to function in a way that is considered safe and fit for the road.

While checking out your private number plate online allows you to picture what it could look like displayed on your car, there’s no substitute for being able to see it assigned to your make and model of vehicle.

If you’ve asked yourself the question ‘how will a number plate look on my car?’, then here at New Reg, we can help.

We’ve created the innovative Number Plate Builder tool for this very purpose. Not only will you be able to view the plate you pick on a wide selection of models and auto marques, you can also try your hand at a little customisation. Read on to discover how you can get personal with your plates here at New Reg.

What will my number plate look like?

If you’ve pondered how a personal plate might look on your vehicle or wish to try on some styles for size before purchasing a private registration, we can assist you. With our easy-to-use Number Plate Builder tool, you’ll have the advantage of previewing your dream plate on your car and you can select from our range of customisation possibilities.

Our Number Plate Builder feature has been designed to give you a future glimpse of what your preferred plate will look like after it’s assigned to your vehicle. Super easy to use, in a matter of seconds you’ll see your private plate displayed on a range of popular models and makes.

All you need to do is input the registration you’re looking to buy and select the make and model of car that matches yours from the drop-down option list. When you’ve made your choice, simply click ‘view’ to see the result. The vehicle you’ve picked will now display your new personalised number plate.

Number plate styles

You might have a personalised registration or one that is standard issue, but regardless of this, UK law forbids altering the spacing between characters shown on a number plate. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has strict measurements concerning not just spacing between characters but also the margins surrounding them. While you can’t alter the height of a number plate, you can decrease the width of a plate if you possess a short registration with fewer characters. Failure to adhere to the rules could result in a hefty fine or MOT failure. These rigid laws are developed to make sure registrations are clear to read in all light conditions by both the authorities and other drivers.

With our plate builder you can see how your private number plate will look on your car of choice, but you’ll also be able to test a range of customisation options before buying. All our options for styling up your plate at New Reg stick to the UK laws for number plates, so you won’t have to worry about unnecessary fines or failed tests.

Through our Number Plate Builder, your private registration can be previewed in a selection of different styles that include carbon, standard and hiline, along with the very latest in 3D effects. You can also view what your plates will look like if they are framed by a smart black border.

While number plates carried by UK cars must always be yellow with black alphanumeric characters at the rear, and white with black alphanumeric characters at the front, you’ll still be able to add extra colour if you opt to include a national flag. Try out plates with a red, white and blue Union Jack, a red and white St George Cross, a blue and white St Andrews cross, or the red dragon of Wales.

When you need to transfer a private number plate, there are two steps that need to be completed. Firstly, the plate must be removed from the donor vehicle, unless it is already held on a retention certificate. Secondly, the private registration must be assigned to a recipient van, motorcycle or car.

How to transfer a private number plate

Removing a private number plate from a car and assigning it to another vehicle are procedures that involve informing the DVLA.

Removing a plate from a vehicle

Checking the vehicle’s eligibility is the first stage in removing a private number plate, as it must comply with the conditions set out by the DVLA. It should have road tax or be subject to a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN). It must also possess an MOT certificate and be DVLA registered.

The car, van or other vehicle should be able to move under its own power and must also be available for inspection in case this is required by the DVLA.

When applying online, the registration might be removed immediately, while a postal application can take up to a fortnight to complete. When removing your private plates, you must either reassign it to another vehicle or obtain a V778 retention certificate to protect your rights to that registration. The DVLA currently charges an £80 fee for the removal.

How to transfer a private number plate from retention to a vehicle

If the number plate is already held on a retention certificate, or V778, then it’s a simple process to transfer the plate to a vehicle as long as the DVLA’s conditions are satisfied. These include having an MOT and car tax, as well as the ability for the vehicle to move via its own power. It should also be available for inspection.  Further information regarding putting a plate on retention

How to transfer a private number plate to a car

There is also a DVLA rule stating that you cannot use any private number plate that might be misleading due to making the car seem newer than it actually is. For example, you cannot use a “17” plate on an “05” car, or an “03” plate on a car that originally had a “Y” prefix.

You can apply for the transfer online or by post. When applying online, the private plate could be immediately assigned, whereas a postal application may take up to two weeks. Applying for the assignment of the number plate is free.

How long to transfer a private number plate?

The removal and assignment steps may each take up to a fortnight, so if you are doing both by post, then you should allow around a month. It does depend on how you apply, as online applications often result in immediate removal or assignment when an inspection is not required.

How to transfer a private number plate online

Transferring a private number plate online is by far the easiest way to complete the process. Assuming a vehicle inspection is not required by the DVLA, the transfer may be completed immediately, meaning you don’t have to wait to remove a number plate or assign a new one.

To remove a number plate online, you will only need the vehicle’s log book (V5C), and you must be the owner of the vehicle.

When assigning a private plate online, you must have an online reference number, a V778 retention certificate, or a V750 entitlement document. You can apply via the DVLA website between 7:00am and 7:00pm, and the private number plate may be immediately assigned if the car does not need an inspection. You therefore need to have new number plates ready to put on.

If you want to transfer a number plate, there are two basic steps involved in doing so.

Firstly, you need to take that plate off the donor vehicle – unless of course the number plate is on a retention certificate rather than a vehicle. The next step is to assign that registration to the recipient vehicle.

When it comes to how to transfer a number plate, bear in mind that the processes of removing a number plate from a vehicle and assigning it to another vehicle must both be completed via the DVLA.

Taking a plate off a vehicle

To remove a personalised number plate from a vehicle, you must initially check eligibility. The vehicle itself must adhere to certain DVLA terms and conditions, such as having current road tax or a SORN in place, an MOT pass certificate, and being DVLA registered. It must also be able to move by means of its own power and be available for inspection, as the DVLA does decide to inspect some vehicles when an application is made.

You can then apply online or by post. With the former, the plate may immediately be removed, while postal applications take up to two weeks to process. When taking a plate off a vehicle, you either need to reassign it to another vehicle right away or put it on a V778 retention certificate to protect your right to use or trade it in future. There is currently a fee of £80 for the transfer.

How to transfer a number plate to another vehicle

If you are assigning the number plate to another vehicle, then you will need a retention certificate, an online reference number or a V750 “certificate of entitlement”. One of these will have been issued when you bought the number plate or removed it from another vehicle. Again, conditions apply regarding the vehicle, including availability for inspection as well as having a current MOT and road tax, plus the means to move under its own power.

Some numbers cannot be assigned. These include any that begin with “NIQ” or “Q”, and you also cannot put a different plate onto any “Q” registered car. Also, it is not permitted to use a number plate that would make a car seem newer than it really is.

Again, you can apply online or by post, and if applying online the number plate might be immediately assigned. Postal applications take up to two weeks to process. Either way, it’s free to apply.

How long does it take to transfer a number plate?

Whether you’re removing or assigning a number plate, each of these two steps can take up to two weeks to complete if you’re applying by post. When applying online, the number plate may immediately be removed and assigned, as long as the DVLA does not wish to inspect the vehicle concerned.

How to transfer a number plate to another person

Once more, you can apply online or by post to transfer your number plate to someone else. Either way, you will need the log book (V5C) of the vehicle to which you are assigning the plate, plus a V778 retention certificate or a V750 entitlement certificate. Online applications will normally result in the number being assigned to the recipient vehicle straight away, while postal applications take a little longer.

How to transfer a number plate online

To transfer a number plate online, you need to follow the relevant steps detailed above. The number plate will first be removed from the donor vehicle. Then it needs to be assigned, and the exact procedure differs slightly according to whether or not you know the person whose vehicle is to receive the number plate.