Guide
How to buy a private number plate
Buying a private registration is simpler than most people expect. You don't need a car, you don't need to visit the DVLA, and the paperwork can be handled for you. Here's how it works from start to finish.
Updated by Aqib Plates
1. Choose a registration
Start with what you want the plate to say: initials, a name, a word, or a number that means something to you. Dealers often use numbers that read as letters, so 5 can stand for S and 1 for I. Browse our private plates for sale, or use our plate finding service if you can't see the one you want.
Check the registration can go on your vehicle. You can't use a registration that makes a vehicle look newer than it is. Dateless plates can go on any vehicle (see our guide to number plate formats).
2. Pay for the registration
When you buy, you're buying the right to display the registration, not physical plates. At Aqib Plates the advertised price is the final price, with no extra fees at checkout.
3. Receive your V750 certificate
After your purchase, the DVLA issues a V750 Certificate of Entitlement in your name (or the name of the person you're buying it for). It proves you have the right to the registration. It usually arrives within about two weeks.
4. Put it on your vehicle, or keep it
You can assign the registration to any eligible vehicle registered in your name, or in someone else's name if they're the nominee on the certificate. Most people do this online at GOV.UK in a few minutes, and our guide to putting a private plate on your car walks you through it.
There's no rush. The certificate is valid for 10 years and is free to renew, so you can keep the registration until you're ready.
5. Get your physical plates made
Once the registration is on your vehicle, order plates from a registered number plate supplier. You'll need to show your V5C logbook and ID, and the plates must follow the number plate rules. Tell your insurer about the new registration.