How to Change Your Number Plate

Changing your number plate is usually pretty straightforward. Whether you’re adding a private plate, removing one, or just replacing damaged plates, the process is largely handled through the DVLA and can often be done online.

Most number plate changes are processed digitally these days, meaning less paperwork and quicker turnaround times. In many cases, once the DVLA approves the change, you can fit your new plates straight away. 

Costs and timings vary depending on what you’re doing, but generally, it’s a quick and easy process!

Why You Might Want to Change Your Number Plate

One of the most common reasons is switching to a private or personalised number plate. Whether it’s initials, a name, or something meaningful, private plates are a popular way to make a vehicle feel more personal.

You also might be removing a private plate and reverting back to the original registration. This often happens when selling a car, returning a leased vehicle, or keeping a cherished plate to use again later.

Some drivers need to change number plates when transferring a registration from one car to another. As long as both vehicles meet DVLA requirements, this can usually be done online without much hassle.

Practical reasons also play a big role. If your plates are cracked, stolen, faded, or no longer readable, replacing them is essential. Damaged or missing plates can lead to fines, MOT failures, or issues with ANPR systems.

And if you’re selling a vehicle and want to retain the registration, changing the number plate back to the original one ensures the sale goes smoothly and avoids any future confusion around ownership or paperwork.

How to Change Your Number Plate 

Changing your number plate is usually handled through the DVLA and can be completed online in most cases. The exact steps depend on whether you’re adding, removing, or transferring a private registration.

Changing to a Private or Personalised Number Plate

Before assigning a private plate, make sure:

• The vehicle is taxed (or Statutory Off Road Notification, known as SORN)
• It has a valid MOT (if required)
• The plate isn’t age-restricted beyond the vehicle’s year

To change your number plate to a private one, you’ll assign the registration through the DVLA online service. Once approved, you’ll receive confirmation and updated paperwork. At that point, you can fit your new plates.

Changing a Number Plate Back to the Original

If you remove a private plate, the DVLA will usually reissue the vehicle’s original registration automatically. Once confirmation comes through, you can fit plates showing the original number.

Most changes are processed quickly, often within a few days when done online.

How to Transfer a Number Plate From One Car to Another

Transferring a number plate from one car to another is done through the DVLA and follows a similar process to assigning a private plate.

Before you start, both vehicles must:

• Be registered with the DVLA
• Be taxed (or SORN)
• Have a valid MOT (if required)
• Be eligible for the registration (you can’t make a car look newer than it is)

Step-by-Step Transfer Overview

1. Apply online via the DVLA’s private registration transfer service
2. Choose the donor vehicle (where the plate is coming from)
3. Select the recipient vehicle (where the plate is going)
4. Pay the DVLA transfer fee (if applicable)
5. Receive confirmation once the transfer is complete

Once approved, the DVLA updates both vehicles’ records automatically.

When Transfers Aren’t Allowed

Transfers won’t be approved if:

• Either vehicle doesn’t meet DVLA requirements
• The plate would make the vehicle appear newer than it is
• The registration is tied to a non-transferable or invalid status
• If a transfer isn’t possible, you may need to retain the plate instead

What to Do After You Change Your Number Plate

Once the DVLA confirms your new registration, there are a few important updates to make.

Update Insurance, Finance, and Parking Accounts

Make sure your new registration is updated with:

• Your insurer (this should be done immediately)
• Breakdown cover providers
• Finance or lease companies
• Parking permits, congestion charge accounts, and toll services

Failing to update these can cause issues with claims, access, or fines.

How Long Does it Take to Change Number Plates?

If you’re just replacing damaged, faded, or missing number plates, there’s no waiting around at all, you just order a new set. If you choose Express Delivery from Great Plates, you should have your replacement number plates with you within two days.

If you’re changing to a private or personalised number plate, timings depend on how you apply through the DVLA:

• Online DVLA assignment: Often confirmed instantly, but can take up to 2 working days
• Postal applications: Can take up to 2 weeks, depending on DVLA processing times
• Updated V5C logbook: Sent after the change is approved and usually arrives within 4-6 weeks

The quickest option is always to assign your plate online, then order your new plates straight away.

Order Your New Number Plates

When you order from Great Plates, the process is quick and straightforward. You can choose from standard road-compliant plates, premium 3D or 4D styles, or specialist options depending on your vehicle. Every road-use plate is made to meet UK requirements for font, spacing, size, and reflectivity.

Simply enter your new registration, choose your preferred style, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Order your new plates