Information
Number plate retention: Can I keep my number plate when I sell my car?
Yes, you can retain your number plate when you sell your car by contacting the DVLA.
For some drivers, a number plate is more than just a legal identifier. It’s personal. Maybe you’ve got a private plate that reflects your name, a lucky number, or a memory you don’t want to give up. Like a phone number you’ve had for years, it just feels like part of who you are. The good news is you don’t have to lose it when you change cars. If you’ve got a plate you want to hold on to, you can transfer it and keep it with you on your next set of wheels.
How can I keep my number plate when selling my car?
You can apply to keep your number plate, if your car:
• Is registered with the DVLA
• Is able to move under its own power
• Is a type that needs an MOT or heavy goods vehicle (HGV) test certificate
• Is available for inspection when the DVLA contact you
• Is taxed or has SORN continuously for the past five years. If the car has had a SORN for five or more years, you’ll need to tax the car and get an MOT certificate
How much does it cost to retain a number plate?
It costs £80 to take your number plate off your car. You can pay with a debit or credit card.
How long is the private number plate retention with DVLA?
Once your number plate has been taken off, you can keep it for the next 10 years. You may keep the number plate without putting it on another car. The V778 document proves that you’re allowed to retain the number plate and it also tells the date by which you must transfer the number plate to another vehicle. If you don’t transfer the number plate to another car within 10 years, and you want to continue keeping the number plate with yourself, you should renew the V778 document before it expires.
How can I transfer the number plate to a new car?
If you want to keep your private number plate when selling your car, you can apply for a retention certificate (V778) through the DVLA. It costs £80 and lets you hold onto the plate for up to 10 years without assigning it to another vehicle. When you’re ready to transfer the plate to a new car, you can apply online at gov.uk. For used cars, wait until you receive the V5C logbook before applying. For new cars, your dealership can help with the process. This way, your personalised plate stays with you—ready for your next set of wheels.
Take a look at what to expect when you visit a trustworthy car retailer.
