The Rights to Private Number Plates

The Evolution of Car Registration Numbers

Car registration numbers, initially introduced by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for taxation and law enforcement, have evolved into a popular means of personalizing vehicles. From celebrating anniversaries to adding a unique touch to a prized car, private number plates are increasingly in demand.

The Popularity of Private Number Plates

Private number plates have seen a significant rise in popularity. According to the DVLA, over 374,968 private number plates were sold in 2020 alone, generating more than £111 million in revenue (source: DVLA). This trend highlights the growing desire for vehicle personalization.

Understanding the Purchase of Private Number Plates

When you buy a private number plate, you are purchasing the rights to a specific car registration, not just the physical plates. This distinction is crucial as it determines the ownership and transferability of the registration.

Misconceptions About Private Number Plates

A common misconception is that purchasing a private number plate means buying the physical plates. In reality, you are acquiring the rights to the registration number, which can be worth thousands of pounds. Once assigned to a vehicle, the rights to the registration fall to the registered keeper.

Retaining Rights When Selling Your Vehicle

When selling a vehicle with a private number plate, the new registered keeper acquires the rights to the registration number. To retain these rights, you have two options:

1. Transfer the Number Plate to Another Vehicle: Complete DVLA form V317, including the V5 logbooks, MOT certificates (if applicable), and a fee of £80 payable to the DVLA.
2. Transfer the Registration to a V778 Certificate of Entitlement: This allows you to retain the rights without assigning the registration to a vehicle. Complete DVLA form V778/1, including the V5 logbook, MOT (if applicable), and a retention fee of £105 payable to the DVLA.

Selling Private Number Plates

Selling private number plates involves waiving your rights to the registration numbers. Here are the options available:

1. Sell the Vehicle with the Registration: The new registered keeper gains full entitlement to the number plate.
2. Sell the Retention Certificate: If the number plate is on retention, you can sell the certificate to a willing buyer. Add the buyer's name as a nominee if they wish to assign it to their vehicle. To add a nominee, sign Section 1 of the retention certificate and send it to the DVLA with a £25 fee.
3. Advertise the Number Plate While Assigned to Your Car: Once sold, transfer the number plate from vehicle to vehicle via the DVLA.

The Role of Reputable Dealers

Selling and buying private number plates privately can be risky. Using a reputable number plate dealer provides a safer option, offering professional backing for the exchange of certificates and monies.

Interesting Statistics

• The most expensive private number plate ever sold in the UK is "25 O," which fetched £518,000 at a DVLA auction in 2014 (source: BBC).
• The DVLA has raised over £2 billion from the sale of private number plates since the scheme began in 1989 (source: The Guardian).

Conclusion

Private number plates offer a unique way to personalize your vehicle, but understanding the rights and processes involved is crucial. Whether retaining or selling these plates, following the correct procedures ensures a smooth and secure transaction. For those looking to buy or sell, reputable dealers provide a safe and professional avenue for these transactions.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and managing the rights to private number plates, ensuring you make informed decisions whether buying, retaining, or selling.