When you invest in a private or custom DVLA number plate, you may want to keep those plates, even if you do not keep your vehicle. Thankfully, this is possible – but not automatic. Here is what you need to know about retaining DVLA number plates when switching or selling vehicles:
Why Should You Retain Your DVLA Number Plates?
Why might someone want to keep their DVLA number plates when selling a vehicle? There are plenty of reasons, some of which include:
- Sentimental value.
- Investment.
- Personal branding.
- Future use.
It is important to note that most of the reasons people choose to retain their DVLA number plates are related to custom plates. When you invest in a private number plate, you are more likely to want to keep that plate – even if you get a new vehicle. However, some people are emotionally attached to their number plates, even if they were automatically generated. Regardless of which type of number plate you have, the process of retaining it is essentially the same.
The Process of Retaining a Number Plate
What is that process? It is a straightforward, three-step checklist, which you can follow to ensure things go smoothly. Here is your step-by-step guide:
Step 1 – Check Availability
Before you can sell your vehicle, you will need to ensure it meets the United Kingdom’s eligibility criteria established by the DVLA. These criteria ensure that your vehicle is legal for either road use or retention by a collector. To be eligible, your vehicle must:
- Be registered with the DVLA.
- Be available for inspection upon request.
- Have been taxed or declared SORN – statutory off-road notification – continuously for the past five years.
- Be roadworthy and capable of passing an MOT if one is due.
Once your vehicle meets these criteria, you can move forward with the retention process.
Step 2 – Complete Necessary Applications
There are two ways to apply to retain your DVLA number plates. First, you can apply on the DVLA website. Second, you can apply via post with the V317 form. While the online application form is quicker and easier for some, others may prefer to use paper forms and apply through the post. Both are equally valid and will get the same results.
To apply online, begin by visiting the DVLA website and navigate to the number plate retention section. Follow the on-screen instructions, entering the required details about your vehicle and number plate. Next, pay the retention fee – currently £80. Once the application is complete, you’ll receive confirmation, and the number plate will be removed from your vehicle’s registration.
Prefer to apply through the post? First, you will need to obtain a V317 form, available for download from the DVLA website or by requesting one from the DVLA. Complete that form, providing details about your vehicle and the number plate you wish to retain. Send the form – along with the £80 retention fee and any required documentation – to the DVLA.
Step 3 – Receive Your Retention Certificate
After your application is approved, the DVLA will issue a retention certificate (V778). This certificate proves that you own the rights to the number plate and allows you to keep it for up to ten years. During that time, you can assign it to another vehicle or renew the retention.
Your retention certificate will include the following information:
- Your name and address
- The retained number plate
- The expiration date of the certificate
- The details of any nominee (if applicable) who can assign the number plate to their vehicle
Be sure to keep your V778 certificate in a safe place. You will need it if – or when – you decide to assign the plate number to a new vehicle.
What Happens to Your Vehicle After You Retain Your DVLA Number Plates?
Once you have separated the DVLA plate from your vehicle, the vehicle will be issued a new number plate. Unless you purchase a custom or private number plate, this will be randomly generated. Remember, every vehicle in the United Kingdom must have a DVLA-approved number plate. The number the vehicle is assigned will generally be its original number – if your retained plate was a private one – or a new, age-related number.
If you’re selling the vehicle, you’ll need to ensure that the new registration number is displayed on the vehicle before transferring ownership. The DVLA will send you a replacement logbook (V5C) with the new registration number. You should pass this on to the new owner.
Keep in mind that once you sell a vehicle, you lose the legal right to retain the number plate. For that reason, you will need to finish the plate retention process before selling the vehicle. You can allow someone else to use the retained number plate for their vehicle. If you do this, you will need to add them as a nominee on the retention certificate. Otherwise, the ownership of the number plate will remain with you.
Still have questions? Stop by the DVLA website to learn more and get started with the retention process.