How do I securely retain a private number plate?
Many people wish to keep hold of their private registrations even if they are selling their vehicle or exchanging their private registration for a new one.
Luckily the DVLA offers a scheme where you can securely keep your private registration until it is required at a later date. This service is called the ‘number plate retention scheme’.
Applications have to be made to retain your number using this scheme however the process is very straight forward and can by done online or by post (details shown below). The DVLA will advise at the time of submitting your application what registration replaces the number you are taking off (if it is a private number you are taking off it is normally the original number that replaces it).
After submitting your application you will be sent a Retention Certificate (V778) which will be valid for 10 years and can be extended past this date if required. This certificate can then be used in the future to transfer the registration onto another vehicle or if you wish to sell the rights to the registration.
Eligibility to Retain A Private Number Plate
To ensure you can retain your number the following rules apply with the DVLA:
- Be in possession of the valid V5C document which states it has been registered in the UK
- The valid V5C must not have the words ‘non-transferable’ on.
- Your registration cannot begin with a Q or a NIQ
- The vehicle is taxed or has been SORN (if it has been SORN for longer than 5 years it will need to be taxed).
- The vehicle has previously been taxed or had a continuous SORN in place for 5 years
- The vehicle (car, van or lorry) must require a MOT or a HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) test certificate.
- The vehicle must be self-propelled
- Be available for inspection if required by the DVLA.
How to apply to put your registration onto retention
Applying online is very straight forward. Just visit the DVLA webpage ‘Take a private number off a vehicle’ complete the details requested and pay the £80 DVLA transfer fee.
To apply by post you will need to complete a V317 form which you can either download from our website or the DVLA website or collect one from your local post office. (only complete part 9 of the form if there is a change of ownership or part 10 if a dealer is acting on your behalf). Send the completed form, the V5C logbook and DVLA fee of £80 to the DVLA address on the form.
After applying online or by post you will then be sent the V778 retention certificate and the replacement V5C document for the replacement registration of the vehicle.
