Our guide to documents you need for private plates

Transferring a private registration in the UK requires specific documents to ensure a smooth process with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Whether you’re assigning a new plate to a vehicle, transferring an existing registration, or retaining a plate for future use, understanding the required paperwork is crucial.

Understanding the Private Registration Transfer Process

A private registration, also known as a personalised number plate, allows vehicle owners to display a unique registration number on their car. The DVLA oversees the transfer process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met. The process typically involves:

1. Assigning a private number plate to a vehicle
2. Transferring a registration from one vehicle to another
3. Retaining a private number plate for future use

Each of these scenarios requires specific documents, which we will explore in detail.

Documents Required for Assigning a Private Number Plate

If you have purchased a private registration and wish to assign it to a vehicle, you will need the following documents:

1. V750 Certificate of Entitlement

The V750 Certificate of Entitlement is issued when you purchase a brand-new private registration that has never been assigned to a vehicle before. This document proves your legal right to use the registration.

• Issued by the DVLA when a new private registration is purchased.
• Confirms ownership of the registration number.
• Required when assigning the private plate to a vehicle.
• Typically valid for 10 years, but can be renewed.

2. V778 Retention Document

The V778 Retention Document is issued when a private plate is removed from a vehicle and kept for future use or transfer. This document acts as proof that the registration is still owned by the individual, even though it is not currently assigned to a car.

• Issued when you remove a private plate from a vehicle.
• Allows you to hold the plate without assigning it to another car immediately.
• Valid for 10 years, with renewal options.
• The person named on the V778 (the grantee) can reassign or transfer the plate to someone else.

3. V5C Registration Certificate (Logbook)

The V5C Registration Certificate, often called the logbook, is a crucial document that proves vehicle ownership and contains important details about the car. When assigning a private plate, you will need this document to complete the process.

• Contains vehicle details (make, model, colour, engine size).
• Required for any registration transfer.
• Must be in the name of the registered keeper.

4. MOT Certificate (If Applicable)

If the vehicle is over three years old, it must have a valid MOT certificate before a private registration can be assigned.

• Ensures the vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards.
• Required for vehicles that are not exempt from MOT testing.

5. Vehicle Tax Confirmation

The vehicle must be taxed or have a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN) in place before a private registration can be assigned.

• If the vehicle has been off the road for more than five years, it must be taxed and have an MOT certificate.

Documents Required for Transferring a Private Registration

If you wish to transfer a private registration from one vehicle to another, you will need:

1. V317 Application Form

The V317 Application Form is used to transfer a private registration from one vehicle to another.

• Both registered keepers must complete the application.
• The form includes guidance notes and information on where to send it.
• The £80 transfer fee must be paid.

2. V5C Registration Certificates for Both Vehicles

You will need the V5C logbooks for both the vehicle donating the registration and the vehicle receiving it.

• Ensures both vehicles are legally registered.
• Confirms ownership details.

3. MOT Certificate (If Applicable)

If either vehicle is over three years old, a valid MOT certificate is required.

4. Vehicle Tax Confirmation

Both vehicles must be taxed or have a SORN in place.

Documents Required for Retaining a Private Registration

If you wish to remove a private registration from a vehicle and keep it for future use, you will need:

1. V778 Retention Document

The V778 Retention Document allows you to keep a private registration without assigning it to another vehicle immediately.

• Issued when a plate is removed from a vehicle.
• Valid for 10 years, with renewal options.

2. V317 Application Form

The V317 Application Form is also used for retaining a private registration.

• Must be completed and submitted to the DVLA.
• The £80 retention fee must be paid.

3. V5C Registration Certificate

The V5C logbook for the vehicle donating the registration is required.

4. MOT Certificate (If Applicable)

If the vehicle is over three years old, an MOT certificate is required.

How to Submit Your Documents

You can submit your documents to the DVLA online or by post.

Online Application

• The number will be assigned immediately if your vehicle does not need an inspection.
• Be ready to put new number plates on the vehicle as soon as you’ve applied.

Postal Application

Send all of the following documents to the DVLA:

• The completed V750 or V778 form.
• The vehicle’s V5C logbook or green ‘new keeper’ slip with a completed V62 application.
• If transferring to another person, add them as a nominee on the form.
• If taxing the vehicle at the same time, include:
  • A V10 application for vehicle tax.
  • The correct amount of vehicle tax payment.
  • An MOT certificate (if applicable).

Transferring a private registration in the UK requires careful attention to documentation. Whether you are assigning, transferring, or retaining a plate, ensuring you have the correct paperwork will make the process seamless. The DVLA provides clear guidelines, and following them will help avoid delays.

• Uncategorised
• 6th May, 2025