HELP AND SUPPORT

Frequently asked questions

We've compiled a list of common questions and answers to help you better understand our products and services. Whether you're a new customer looking to learn more about what we offer, or a returning customer with a specific question in mind, we hope you'll find the information you need here.

Are there any restrictions in relation to the age of vehicle the registration number is for?
You can’t use a registration number in order to make a vehicle appear newer that it actually is i.e you can’t put an 11 series number (AS11 ANS) on an 02 (XY02 ABC) vehicle. It is acceptable to use an older registration on a newer vehicle, so AS02 ANS or F99 ANS could go on a vehicle first registered with XY11 ABC. Click the more info button next to the registration number for more details.
Many numbers can be supplied on a certificate within 3-5 working days.

Absolutely not, there is a full breakdown of costs on the more info page, the price you see is the price you pay.

No, unlike most websites we don’t charge for using your debit or credit card
We accept all major credit and debit cards. Additionally, we offer the option to spread payments through Klarna, subject to status.
Numbers can sell fast, we can supply most numbers on a certificate, giving you upto 10 years to assign it. We can help you assign the number when the time comes if you want us too.
Unfortunately registration numbers can’t be reserved, the only way to secure the number is to purchase it.
If you vehicle is registered in Northern Ireland we will be able to supply you with registration number. There are no longer different rules regarding transfering numbers to Northern Ireland

You can access our terms and conditions policy here.

How do I get a free number plate valuation?
Simply enter your registration details on our valuation page, and our expert team will assess the market value of your number plate based on factors like rarity, desirability, and current demand. You’ll typically receive your valuation within minutes, but it may take up to 24 hours during busy periods.
Most valuations are delivered within minutes, though it may take up to 24 hours during busy periods.
The value of your private number plate can depend on several factors, including the uniqueness of the character combination, age-related relevance, or initials that may appeal to specific buyers.
No, our number plate valuation service is completely free and comes with no obligation to sell.
Once you’ve received your valuation, you can choose to instruct us to sell your plate. We will guide you through the process and help find a buyer.
Unlike many other dealers, Platinum Plates does not charge for handling the legal paperwork and administration required for transferring your plate with the DVLA.
Yes, we take your privacy seriously. All of your personal details are kept secure and confidential throughout the valuation and selling process.
The time it takes to sell a number plate can vary depending on factors such as demand and uniqueness. We strive to sell plates as quickly as possible by promoting them to potential buyers.
Yes, you can sell a number plate that is currently assigned to your vehicle. We’ll assist in transferring the registration from your vehicle to the buyer.
Our valuation service is free, and we only charge a commission upon the successful sale of your plate. There are no upfront costs involved.
What different plate formats are there?

Dateless Style Registrations

Dateless registrations are the oldest type of number plates in the UK, introduced in 1903. These plates do not contain any reference to the vehicle’s age, making them highly desirable for those wanting to hide the age of their vehicle. They consist of a combination of letters and numbers in various formats, such as “ABC 123” or “123 ABC.” Due to their age and rarity, dateless plates are often considered ‘cherished’ and can be quite valuable.

Suffix Style Registrations

Introduced in 1963, suffix registrations consist of three letters, up to three numbers, followed by a letter that indicates the year of registration. For example, “ABC 123D” would signify a vehicle registered in 1966 (the “D” suffix refers to the registration year). These plates were used until 1983 and are still popular for their classic look and clear indication of a vehicle’s age.

Prefix Style Registrations

Prefix plates were introduced in 1983, replacing the suffix style. These plates start with a letter that indicates the year of registration, followed by numbers and three letters, such as “A123 ABC” (where the “A” represents 1983). This format was used until 2001 and is still widely recognised as a common style for UK plates. They are often more affordable than dateless or suffix plates but still a popular choice for personalised registrations.

Current Style Registrations

The current number plate format was introduced in 2001 and is still in use today. These plates follow the format of two letters (representing the region of the registration), two numbers (indicating the age of the vehicle), and three letters at the end, such as “AB12 XYZ.” For example, “AB12” indicates a vehicle registered between March and August 2012. This style is popular for personalised plates due to the wide availability of combinations.

Personalised and private number plates are terms often used interchangeably, and both refer to vehicle registrations that are unique and specific to the owner. Essentially, a personalised number plate is one you choose based on a specific combination of letters and numbers that may reflect your name, initials, hobbies, or something meaningful. A private plate simply means it’s owned by an individual, as opposed to a standard issue plate. While both terms mean the same thing, “personalised” tends to highlight the customisation aspect, while “private” often implies ownership of a unique registration.

Assigning a personalised plate to your vehicle is done through the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency).

Once you purchase your plate, you will receive a certificate of entitlement (V750) if the plate is new, or a retention certificate (V778) if the plate was previously owned. You will need to provide this certificate, along with your vehicle’s V5C (logbook), to the DVLA either online or by post.

The DVLA will process the change, and you can then display your new plates on your vehicle.

The process typically takes a few days, but your plate cannot be displayed until DVLA confirms the transfer.

Yes, there are strict rules from the DVLA on what can be displayed on UK number plates. The characters on your plate must comply with the DVLA’s font, size, and spacing regulations. Additionally, your personalised plate cannot be used to make your vehicle appear newer than it is – meaning you cannot assign a plate with a newer year identifier to an older vehicle. Plates that could be considered offensive or misleading are also prohibited. Finally, any deliberate misrepresentation of characters (like using screws to alter the appearance) is illegal and can lead to fines.
If you plan to sell your car but want to keep your personalised number plate, you’ll need to retain it using a Retention Certificate (V778). This allows you to remove the registration from your vehicle and hold onto it until you want to assign it to a new vehicle. The retention process can be done online or by post through the DVLA. Once the plate is retained, your car will be issued a new standard registration. You can then assign the personalised plate to a new vehicle at a later time without losing ownership of the registration.

To speak to our team, please visit our contact page.

Customer Care

Still need some advice

Whether you need to discuss a existing order or if it’s just a question about the process, our friendly UK based team are here to help.
Send us a message
Ready to find your perfect plate?

It all starts with a search

Looking for a personalised number plate? Search our database of 68,702,267 plates.

Search your initials, name, car model, etcSearch registrations