Private Number Plates: All you need to know in the UK

Private number plates are custom combinations of characters that you purchase and attach to your vehicle. Replacing the standard government issued registration plates.

While the standard plates typically include a random sequence of letters and numbers assigned by the DVLA, private plates allow you to choose and personalise your registration number.

Types of Number Plates in the UK

There are few different types of number plates you might encounter on UK roads.

The UK uses a structured system for license plates - to ensure clarity, legality and identification. 

Standard Number Plates (Current Style)

The current style of number plates are the most common you will see on the road. The vast majority of cars on the road have this style.

(Image source: DVLA)

These plates feature a two-letter regional identifier, an age identifier with two digits (indicating the year the plate was issued), and a three-letter sequence. For example, "BD51 SMR."

Dateless Number Plates

Dateless plates, as the name suggests, don't carry an age identifier. They are highly sought after and can be assigned to both modern and vintage vehicles.

Dateless plates typically comprise a combination of letters and numbers, like "ABC 123."

Prefix Number Plates

Prefix plates were introduced in 1983. They feature a letter to signify the year of issue. This is followed by up to three letters and up to three numbers. For example, "A123 BCD."

Suffix Number Plates

Suffix plates were used before the introduction of prefix plates. They comprise up to three numbers, followed by up to three letters and a letter to indicate the year of issue. I.e. 123 ABC A.

Private Number Plates

Back to private number plates. These, as mentioned above, are personalised registrations that allow you to choose specific combinations of letters and numbers.

This allows for some interesting customisation options for your car. Making them a favourite with vehicle owners looking to stand out.

Purchase from a Private Seller

One of the most common ways to get a private number plate is to buy it from a private seller.

There are numerous online marketplaces, auctions, and dedicated dealerships where individuals and businesses sell private plates.

When purchasing from a private seller, make sure to verify the plate's authenticity and check if there are any additional fees involved.

DVLA Personalised Registrations

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in the UK offers a wide range of personalised number plates.

You can search for available combinations on their website, and if you find one you like, you can purchase it directly.

The DVLA also holds auctions where you can bid for exclusive number plates.

Private Plate Dealerships

There are specialised dealerships across the UK that focus exclusively on private number plates.

These dealers often have a vast inventory and can assist you in finding the perfect plate that suits your preferences and budget. They can also help with the paperwork and transfer process.

Auctions and Events

Attending number plate auctions and events can be an exciting way to acquire a unique plate. These gatherings often feature rare and highly sought-after plates that can become valuable assets over time.

The Transfer Process

After acquiring a private number plate, you'll need to go through the transfer process to assign it to legally to your vehicle.

This generally involves completing some paperwork, sometimes paying a transfer fee, and updating your own vehicle's registration details.

Private Number Plates Rules

While acquiring a private number plate can be an exciting endeavour, it's important that you stick to the rules. 

By doing so, you will have a personalised plate which is legal and doesn't lead to any issues further down the road. Pun intended. 

Formatting Rules

Private number plates must follow specific format rules. This dictates the arrangement of letters and numbers. Such as:

• A maximum of seven characters (letters and numbers combined).
• No altering or spacing of characters beyond what's allowed.
• Appropriate character sizes and styles. Following DVLA guidelines.

No Offensive Combinations

The DVLA has a strict policy against issuing plates with offensive or inappropriate combinations. 

Any application with such content will be rejected. 

It's important to choose a combination that is in good taste and unoffensive.

Retention Period

If you decide to remove your private plate from your vehicle, it can be retained on a certificate for a specified period.

During this time, you can choose to assign it to another vehicle or renew the retention.

Interesting Private Number Plates Facts

Private number plates in the UK have a rich history and are often associated with unique stories and quirky combos.

The Oldest Known Private Number Plate

The very first private number plate in the UK, "A1," was issued in London in 1903. It was registered to the automobile of Earl Russell, an early motoring enthusiast.

Record Price for a UK Private Plate

In the world of private number plates, certain combinations are highly sought after. The record for the most expensive private number plate sold in the UK is "25 O," purchased by John Collins, a Ferrari dealer. This 3 character plate cost £518,000 in 2014.

Countless Combinations

With millions of possible combinations, private number plates continue to offer individuals a creative way to express themselves and add a personal touch to their vehicles.

From the very first registration, "A1," to the modern-day trend of creative combinations, private plates have evolved alongside the automobile industry. They've become a cherished part of British motoring culture, symbolising individuality, and uniqueness.

Whether you're looking to make a statement, cherish a moment, or simply add a touch of flair to your vehicle, private plates offer a world of possibilities.