DVLA rules for retaining number plates

 

If you are putting your registration number onto a DVLA V778 Retention Document, here are a few things you should know before you apply.....

 

 

 

Only the registered keeper of the donor vehicle can apply to retain a registration number. That is, the person named on the V5 log book of the vehicle.

There’s also room for another name on the Retention Certificate – the nominee. You can nominate another person on the retention certificate, whose vehicle you may wish to assign the registration number to.

 

You can specify a nominee at the time you apply for a retention certificate. Alternatively, you can add a name later. The DVLA charge a fee for amendments to the retention document.

The nominee cannot sell the registration number. See Can I sell a number plate?

 

 

Some registration numbers may be marked as ‘non-transferable’. Check your V5 / V5C Registration Document (log book), before applying to retain a number plate.

 

 

The vehicle should be licensed

the number plate you want to retain should be on a vehicle that is taxed. If the tax disc on the donor vehicle has expired, you may still be able to transfer the registration number without renewing the tax – if it expired less than 12 months ago, and was declared as SORN straightaway. If you applied for a tax refund, however, then you cannot retain the number plate.

 

 

Before applying for a DVLA Retention Document, make sure the vehicle has an MOT. The DVLA may decide to inspect your vehicle before approving the transfer. So expect to be asked to produce your vehicle at the nearest DVLA office.

 

if your vehicle does not have a current MOT, you may still be able to apply to retain the registration number (you will be asked to produce the last MOT certificate). Contact your local DVLA Office for advice.

 

You don’t need an MOT if your vehicle is not old enough to be tested.

 

 

Some vehicles do not fall under the MOT testing scheme, such as tractors and electrically propelled vehicles (for example, milk floats). But they do still carry a number plate. You cannot sell a number plate from this type of vehicle.

  

 

You can retain a number plate that is on a motorbike or moped - the rules are the same as for other vehicles.

 

 

 

These registration numbers can not be retained.