Private registrations
How to assign a private number plate
Summary: DVLA does not charge to assign a registration you already hold. You need the entitlement or retention document and the vehicle record.
Checked on .
- How to keep a private number plateTaking a private registration off a vehicle costs £80. Apply online or by post before the vehicle is sold or scrapped.
- How to replace number platesA registered number plate supplier must see original identity and entitlement documents. Government does not set the retail price or production time.
- Private number plate fees and formsRemoving a number or transferring it between vehicles costs £80. Assigning a held number and renewing a certificate carry no DVLA fee.
Which fee and document apply?
| Item | Published answer |
|---|---|
| Fee | £0 DVLA assignment fee |
| Form or certificate | V750 or V778, with the V5C for a postal application |
| Timeline | Immediate online if no inspection is needed; the replacement V5C usually takes 4 weeks. |
| Original registration | Keep the original physical plates. DVLA usually restores that mark when the private registration is removed later. |
What are the steps?
- Have the V750 certificate of entitlement or V778 retention document and the vehicle V5C ready.
- Assign the number online, or send the certificate and V5C to DVLA.
- Fit the new plates before driving and tell the insurer.
- Keep the original physical plates in case DVLA restores that registration later.
Common questions
- Does DVLA charge to assign a private plate?
- No. Assignment is free when you already hold the number on a valid V750 or V778.
- Can I drive before fitting the new plates?
- No. GOV.UK says to put the new plates on before driving and to tell the insurer.
Related pages
- How to keep a private number plateTaking a private registration off a vehicle costs £80. Apply online or by post before the vehicle is sold or scrapped.
- How to replace number platesA registered number plate supplier must see original identity and entitlement documents. Government does not set the retail price or production time.
- Private number plate fees and formsRemoving a number or transferring it between vehicles costs £80. Assigning a held number and renewing a certificate carry no DVLA fee.
Sources
Fees and timings were checked against the linked official pages on 10 September 2026.