DVLA issues number plate warning to all UK drivers after massive change last month
Drivers have the chance to buy a personalised number plate at a DVLA auction
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The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is calling on motorists to make themselves aware of important number plate rules.
When buying a new number plate, drivers should always make sure they are sticking to the law and not buying a plate that could be invalid.
Posting on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, the DVLA urged motorists to make sure they were using legitimate services to get a number plate.
The post was also accompanied by a link to the GOV.UK website where Britons can find their nearest number plate supplier.
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The statement read: “If you need to get a number plate made up, make sure you get one from a registered number plate supplier.
“You’ll be asked for original documents that prove your identity and show you’re entitled to the registration number.”
The GOV.UK website contains a postcode checker which allows motorists to find their nearest registered number plate supplier.
This follows the introduction of the new number plate identifiers, with “73” being launched on September 1 after the “23” plate was unveiled in March.
When looking to get a new licence, motorists will need to see original documents which prove their identity and show they are entitled to the registration number. This could include bringing a passport or driving licence, as well as their V5C vehicle registration certificate.
As with any number plate, drivers must follow an established set of rules including a white plate on the front of the car, a yellow plate on the rear and be marked to show who supplied the number plate.
The plate can have 3D or raised characters, display certain flags, symbols and identifiers, as well as display a green flash if it's a zero emission vehicle.
For drivers looking to get a personalised number plate, the DVLA runs a number of auctions every year with bespoke licence plates going under the hammer.
The most recent auction took place at Stratford Manor last week and saw hundreds of personalised plates sell to keen buyers.
Seven number plates sold for more than £20,000, while the most expensive – “812 A” – fetched a whopping £38,000.
Commenting on the auction, Roads Minister Richard Holden said: “Picking your own personalised registration is a great way to add a personal touch to your vehicle, and the DVLA auction is a fantastic opportunity to find exactly what you’re looking for.
“With DVLA raising almost £15million in the past three auctions, I’m particularly excited to be on the podium for the last ever in-person auction to seal some of the bids and see people take home their perfect registration.”
The next auction is set to take place on November 22, with the two plates expected to bring in thousands of pounds, namely “150 A” and “1313 A”.
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New number plate changes were unveiled on September 1
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Both enter the auction with a starting price of £2,500, with the DVLA hopeful that the unique plates will attract plenty of bidders.