Keep Your Digits: How to Retain a Number Plate for Your Car

16/02/2019

How to Retain a Number Plate for Your Car in the UK

Retaining a number plate can be a vital step for many car owners in the UK, whether you are selling your vehicle, buying a new one, or simply want to keep a cherished plate for future use. The process is straightforward if you follow the correct steps. This guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you know exactly what to do and where to go.

 

Why Retain Your Number Plate?

There are several reasons why you might want to retain your number plate:

• Personalisation: If the number plate has sentimental value or is personalised, retaining it allows you to use it on another vehicle in the future.
• Investment: Some number plates increase in value over time and can be seen as a financial asset.
• Convenience: Keeping a familiar number plate can make the transition to a new vehicle smoother.

 

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before you begin, ensure your vehicle meets the eligibility criteria set by the DVLA:

• The vehicle must be registered with the DVLA in your name.
• The vehicle must be able to move under its own power.
• It must be a type that requires an MOT or heavy goods vehicle (HGV) test certificate.
• The vehicle must be available for inspection if needed.
• Your vehicle must be taxed or have a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) in place.

 

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You'll need the following documents to retain your number plate:

• V5C Registration Certificate (Logbook): This document proves you are the registered keeper of the vehicle.
• MOT Certificate: If your vehicle requires an MOT, ensure it is up to date.
• Retention Fee: The DVLA charges £80 to retain a number plate.

 

Step 3: Apply Online or by Post

The DVLA offers two methods to apply for retaining your number plate: online or by post.

Online Method

1. Visit the DVLA Website: Go to the DVLA’s Retain a number plate service.
2. Log In or Create an Account: You’ll need your V5C logbook reference number and vehicle details.
3. Enter Your Details: Follow the prompts to fill in the necessary information.
4. Pay the Fee: Use a debit or credit card to pay the £80 fee.
5. Confirmation: If everything is in order, you’ll receive a confirmation email and your retention document (V778) will be sent to you.

Postal Method

1. Complete Form V317: You can download the form from the DVLA website or get it from a Post Office.
2. Fill Out the Form: Ensure all information is accurate.
3. Send the Documents: Mail the completed V317 form, your V5C logbook, and the payment to DVLA Personalised Registrations, Swansea, SA99 1DS.
4. Wait for Confirmation: The DVLA will process your application and send you the retention document (V778).

 

Step 4: Receiving Your V778 Retention Document

Once your application is approved, you will receive the V778 retention document. This document is valid for 10 years and can be renewed if necessary. It allows you to assign the number plate to another vehicle or sell it if you choose.

 

Step 5: Assigning the Number Plate to a New Vehicle

When you are ready to assign the number plate to a new vehicle, you can do so online or by post using the V778 document.

Online Method

1. Visit the DVLA Website: Go to the DVLA’s Assign a number plate service.
2. Log In or Create an Account: Use your V778 document reference number and the V5C logbook of the vehicle you wish to assign the number plate to.
3. Enter Your Details: Follow the instructions to complete the assignment.
4. Confirmation: You’ll receive a confirmation email, and your V5C will be updated and sent to you.

Postal Method

1. Complete Section 1 of the V778: Indicate the details of the vehicle you want to assign the number plate to.
2. Send the Documents: Mail the completed V778, the V5C of the new vehicle, and an MOT certificate (if applicable) to DVLA Personalised Registrations, Swansea, SA99 1DS.
3. Wait for Confirmation: The DVLA will process your application and return the updated V5C.

 

Step 6: Informing Your Insurance Company

Once the number plate has been successfully assigned, it’s important to inform your insurance company of the change. This ensures that your policy remains valid and up to date.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

What if the DVLA rejects your application?

• Double-check all details on the forms for accuracy.
• Ensure your vehicle is taxed or has a SORN in place.
• Verify that your MOT is current.

Lost V5C, V778, or MOT Certificate?

• Apply for replacements through the DVLA. For a lost V5C, you’ll need to fill out a V62 form. For a lost V778, contact the DVLA for further instructions.

 

Conclusion

Retaining your number plate is a simple process if you follow the right steps and ensure all your documentation is in order. Whether you choose to apply online or by post, the DVLA provides clear guidelines to help you through the process. For more detailed information and to begin your application, visit the DVLA’s Retain a number plate page.

By following this guide, you'll be able to keep your cherished number plate safe and ready for future use.