What is the procedure to buy a private or personalised number plate?
Private and personalised number plates follow the same buying process. We usually call a plate personalised if it means something to the owner, and private if it’s chosen simply because it is ascetically pleasing but not personal to the user or owner of the vehicle. Either way, the steps are the same:
Step 1: Decide on your budget
Know roughly what you want to spend before you start looking.
Step 2: Choose the type of plate you want
Think about whether you want something personal to you, or just a private plate that looks smart on the vehicle.
Step 3: Search dealer websites
Take a look at established, trustworthy dealers. For example, CarReg.co.uk has over 70 million registrations available, so there’s plenty to choose from.
Step 4: Secure your number plate online
Most dealers offer a discount when you buy online. Once you’ve placed your order, you’ll get a confirmation and the dealer will be in touch.
If you want the plate transferred onto your vehicle, the dealer will handle this and ask for your vehicle details. If you’d prefer to keep the plate on a retention certificate, they’ll arrange for it to be placed in your name with the DVLA.
Step 5: Get your physical number plates
Most dealers can also supply the acrylic plates themselves. These can be fitted once the DVLA has officially transferred the registration. Don’t forget to let your insurance company know about the change.
