Why Transfer Your Private Number Plate?

Your private registration—often called a personalised number plate, licence plate, or custom registration—can carry sentimental or financial value. Whether you’re an enthusiast or simply like the look of personalised plates, keeping your cherished registration when changing vehicles is simple if you follow DVLA procedures.

What You Need to Get Started

Ensure you have the following essentials:

• V750 Certificate of Entitlement (if the plate hasn’t yet been used) or V778 Retention Document (if it’s already been assigned) to prove your rights.
• The V5C logbooks for both your old and new vehicles.
• Valid road tax and MOT certificate, if required.
• The £80 DVLA fee for retention or transfer services.
• Number plates ready to be fitted to the vehicle once the registration is assigned.

Step-by-Step: Retaining and Assigning Your Private Plate

Step 1: Retain the Plate (Take It Off the Vehicle)

To reuse your desired plate:

• Use the DVLA online service to retain it immediately, provided the vehicle doesn’t need inspection.
• Alternatively, apply via post using form V317. You’ll receive a V778 retention document (valid for 10 years) and an updated logbook for the vehicle.

Step 2: Assign the Plate to Your New Car

Once retained:

• Use the online “assign a private number” service (available 7 am–7 pm) to transfer the plate to your new vehicle.
• Or, complete form V317 by post—include your retention certificate, both V5Cs, and the applicable fee. The DVLA will issue a new logbook confirming the assignment.
• If you don’t already have physical number plates for your new registration, the DVLA will issue an eV948 authorisation certificate as part of the process. This certificate is valid for only 3 working days, so you’ll need to get your plates made immediately from a DVLA-registered supplier.
  You can order your DVLA-compliant plates directly from us — ensuring the correct font, spacing, BS AU 145e marking, and supplier details, so they’re fully road legal.

Step 3: After Assignment

After the DVLA transfers the registration:

• You’ll receive a new V5C logbook showing your private number on the new vehicle.
• Any previously submitted MOT or tax documents are returned.
• You must fit your number plates before driving the car.
• Update your insurance and any services linked to your registration, such as congestion or low-emission zone payments.

Can You Keep the Plate Unassigned?

Absolutely. Your retention remains valid for 10 years, with free renewal available in the final 28 days before it expires. If left to lapse, you lose the right to that registration—forever.

Reduce Risk: Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the retention step—you must retain before assigning.
• Expired certificates—check your V750/V778 remains valid and renew on time.
• Incorrect documentation—ensure logbooks are accurate and safe.
• Ordering plates too early—only create new plates after official DVLA confirmation.
• Failure to notify third parties—toll zones, insurance, and services must reflect the new registration to avoid fees.

Final Thoughts

Transferring a private number plate is straightforward when you follow DVLA rules: retain it, assign it, fit your plates, and update your paperwork. Whether you call it a personalised plate, licence plate, or registration plate, the process is legal and secure. If you don’t have plates ready, use your eV948 certificate (valid for 3 working days) to order from us — your trusted DVLA-approved supplier — for guaranteed compliance and quality.