A Step-by-Step Guide to Number Plates

So, you’ve finally decided to make the next step and buy that personalized license plate you’ve always dreamed of. That’s great, but do you know where to start? Purchasing a private plate can be somewhat tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the procedure. Don’t worry, that’s what we’re here to help you with today.

1. Buying a private plate

Now as far as purchasing the plate goes, there are two basic ways you can acquire one. The first is from bidding at DVLA auctions directly. These are auctions which are held across the country about 5 times each year. Here’s a list of auction dates. You can bid in person, by phone, in writing, or our personal favorite, online. Once you’ve paid for the plate you’ll receive a V750 certificate to prove that you have the right to place the plate on a vehicle.

The second option is buying from a private dealer or an individual. Most dealerships will transfer the number to your vehicle for you, but you can ask the dealer if you want to keep or even assign the number yourself. In such a scenario, you’ll ask the dealer for the V750 or the V778 directly.

2. Assign your private number to a vehicle

In order to assign a personalised dvla number plate to a vehicle, you need a V778 certification document or a V750. Alternatively you can even do it with an online reference number, but this is a little more complicated.

There are certain eligibility criteria when it comes to assigning your own private number. For instance, you can’t assign a number starting with ‘Q’ or ‘NIQ’, you can’t put a private number on a ‘Q’ registered car, and you can’t use a private number which makes the car or SUV appear newer than it actually is. The vehicle has to be registered at the DVLA and it has to be able to move under its own power. It needs to be taxed and it has to be available for inspection.

3. Keep your private number

If your private number isn’t being used on a vehicle you have to renew it every 10 years. Renewing your V750/V778 certifications is free and you’ll even get a reminder letter or email if you’re not using a private number/forget to renew it.

4. Get a new license plate made

There are certain regulations governing how dvla number plates can look. The DVLA states that a plate has to be made from a reflective material, it has to display black characters on a white background (front plate), and black characters on a yellow background for the rear plate. It MUST NOT have a background pattern, but the characters on the plate itself can be 3D. Letter spacing, style and sizes are all governed too, so be careful.