Suffix Number Plates - A Complete Guide
Want to know more about suffix number plates? Our guide is here to help. On this page, you'll discover:
- What suffix number plates are
- How to identify suffix registrations
- A complete suffix number plate years chart
- Rules and usage guidance
Suffix number plates are one of four car registration systems used in the UK since the early 1900s. You can also learn about prefix number plates, dateless number plates, and the new style registration system. Or check out our complete car registration years chart.
What is a Suffix Number Plate?
A suffix number plate is a style of car registration used in the UK between 1963 and July 1983. It uses a letter at the end of the plate to indicate the car’s year of registration.
How to Identify a Suffix Plate
Suffix registration plates are usually split into three sections:
- First three letters: indicate the area of registration (e.g.
AD= Gloucester) - 1-3 digits: random numbers to differentiate registrations
- Final letter: the age identifier (e.g.
A= 1963)
Suffix Number Plate Years
Below is a full list of suffix letters and their corresponding registration periods:
| Suffix Letter | Registration Period |
|---|---|
| A | 1963 |
| B | 1964 |
| C | 1965 |
| D | 1966 |
| E | Jan 1967 – Jul 1967 |
| F | Aug 1967 – Jul 1968 |
| G | Aug 1968 – Jul 1969 |
| H | Aug 1969 – Jul 1970 |
| J | Aug 1970 – Jul 1971 |
| K | Aug 1971 – Jul 1972 |
| L | Aug 1972 – Jul 1973 |
| M | Aug 1973 – Jul 1974 |
| N | Aug 1974 – Jul 1975 |
| P | Aug 1975 – Jul 1976 |
| R | Aug 1976 – Jul 1977 |
| S | Aug 1977 – Jul 1978 |
| T | Aug 1978 – Jul 1979 |
| V | Aug 1979 – Jul 1980 |
| W | Aug 1980 – Jul 1981 |
| X | Aug 1981 – Jul 1982 |
| Y | Aug 1982 – Jul 1983 |
Rules and Usage Guidance
Why Were Some Letters Not Used?
- I and Z reserved for Northern Ireland
- O considered too similar to the number 0
- U considered too similar to V
- Q used only for vehicles with unknown manufacturing dates
Can You Use Suffix Plates on Any Car?
No – a suffix plate cannot be used on vehicles registered before 1963. It is illegal to make a car look younger than it is.
However, suffix plates can be used on most cars registered after July 1983, as long as the registration date of the car matches or predates the plate's year.
Are Suffix Plates Good for Classic Cars?
Yes! If you drive a classic car from the 1963–1983 period, suffix plates are an ideal way to add character while remaining compliant with DVLA rules.
Find Your Ideal Suffix Plate with PlusPlates
Search our huge database of DVLA registrations to find the perfect suffix plate for your car. Simply enter your desired name, initials or keyword and we’ll show you all available options instantly.
We’ll also handle the full DVLA transfer and paperwork process so you don’t have to.