DVLA Number Plates

DVLA number plates — also known as vehicle registration plates — are the official identifiers assigned by the UK government to every road-legal vehicle. Whether you're looking for a simple replacement or something more personalised, DVLA plates are the gateway to a more unique and expressive motoring identity.

What Are DVLA Number Plates?

DVLA number plates are the standard white (front) and yellow (rear) acrylic plates that display your vehicle’s government-issued registration number. These plates are required on all vehicles in the UK and measure 520mm by 111mm.

In addition to standard plates, the DVLA also offers personalised and cherished number plates that let you display something meaningful — such as a name, initials, word or phrase.

Number Plate Styles

Over the years, DVLA registration formats have changed. The current style was introduced in 2001 and includes:

• Two letters – Indicate the region where the vehicle was first registered
• Two numbers – Indicate the vehicle’s registration year
• Three letters – Randomly assigned for uniqueness

Example current-style plates:

• JO21 OHN
• MA17 ARK

Older and alternative styles include:

• Suffix plates – e.g. DAV 1D, PAU 9L
• Prefix plates – e.g. D1 AVE, J21 OHN
• Dateless plates – e.g. 8 KEL, SAM 253

Buying and Using DVLA Private Plates

It’s completely legal to buy, sell, and assign private DVLA number plates. You can transfer plates easily using a few DVLA forms — or let PlusPlates handle the process for you.

Important rule: You cannot use a private plate to make a vehicle appear newer than it is. For instance, placing a “20” registration plate on a 2015 car is not allowed and could mislead buyers.

Why Choose PlusPlates?

• Access to over 60 million DVLA number plates
• Smart search tools and advanced filtering to help you find your perfect match
• Flexible finance options — plates from just £22/month
• Fast-track plate transfer service and premium-quality acrylic plates

Our experienced customer care team is here to help you every step of the way — from choosing your number plate to completing the transfer process smoothly and legally.

A Registered DVLA Supplier

PlusPlates is a fully registered DVLA number plate supplier and listed on the Register of Number Plate Suppliers (RNPS). Every plate we produce is 100% road legal and compliant with the latest BSAU standards.