Drivers are being warned of banned number plate combinations that could be rejected ahead of major new changes launching next week.
On Monday, September 1, the new "75" number plate tag will be launched as part of the UK's biannual update to registration plates.
In March, the "25" identifier was rolled out to signify the latest models on forecourts and in dealerships.
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As a result of these number plate changes, the UK often sees a spike in new and second-hand car sales in March and September as drivers look to get their hands on the latest models.
Number plates can be banned by the DVLA for causing offence to others
|PA/DVLA
However, certain number plates will never be in circulation amid fears that they may be offensive or rude, with the DVLA banning those that it deems to cross the line.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency can block any combination of letters and numbers that could cause "offence, embarrassment or controversy".
Number plates in the UK follow a standard formula of two letters indicating where the vehicle was registered, two numbers reflecting the location where it was first registered, and the final three letters chosen at random.
Since the "75" can be used as a replacement for letters, random combinations of letters could spell out offensive phrases or words.
The next '75' number plate change will be released on September 1 | GETTYExperts have noted that plates can be banned for having swear words, sexual references, discriminatory terms, or politically sensitive language.
Potential banned registration plate combinations include:
- BA75 ARD
- OR75 GY
- SH75 TTY
A spokesperson for BigWantsYourCar.com said: "It's easy to forget how many new number plate combinations are generated every year, but some of them accidentally form offensive or inappropriate words.
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"The DVLA screens these out before they ever reach the roads to avoid complaints, reputational issues, and to protect future resale value."
Registration plate combinations can also be banned if they relate to ongoing global conflicts, which have been identified in previous years.
In the most recent batch of "25" banned plates, "25 RUS" or "25 UKR" were forbidden to block any references to the years-long war between Russia and Ukraine.
Similarly, it is likely that the DVLA will take action against any letter and number combinations that relate to Israel, Palestine or Gaza.
The DVLA hosts number plate auctions regularly, with lots starting from just £70
| PAPersonalised number plates can still be purchased from the DVLA, although they must follow the same rules as standard plates, meaning they cannot cause offence to others.
The spokesperson added: "Private plates remain popular with drivers looking to add a bit of personality to their vehicle.
"But even cheeky combinations won't get through if they cross the line. The DVLA takes no chances when it comes to potential offence."
The DVLA continues to hold online number plate auctions, with thousands of unique combinations on offer, including "FER 12C", which sold for a staggering £35,000.
The next online auction will take place from September 3 until September 9 and will include top registrations, such as "252 A" and "1874 A", both of which have a starting price of £2,500.