Can You Put a Personalised Number Plate on a Motability Car?

UK personalised number plate being fitted to a Motability car so the registration reads REG 1

Personalised number plates are a popular way for drivers to add a unique touch to their vehicles. Whether it’s a name, initials, or a meaningful combination of letters and numbers, these plates can make a car feel more personal. But what about Motability cars? If you’re leasing a vehicle through the Motability Scheme, can you still add a personalised number plate? The answer is yes, but there are specific rules and procedures to follow.

Understanding the Motability Scheme

The Motability Scheme is designed to help people with disabilities lease a car, scooter, or powered wheelchair using their mobility allowance. The scheme provides a hassle-free way to access a vehicle, covering insurance, servicing, and breakdown assistance. Since the car remains the property of Motability Operations during the lease, any modifications—including personalised number plates—must be approved and managed correctly.

Adding a Personalised Number Plate to a Motability Car

Motability allows customers to add personalised number plates to their leased vehicles, but there are steps to follow:

1. Adding Plates at the Start of the Lease

Some dealerships can assign personalised number plates before you collect your new car. If you want to do this, you must arrange it before the vehicle is registered. The dealer will need either:

  • A Certificate of Entitlement (V750) if the plate has never been used before.
  • A Retention Certificate (V778) if the plate was previously registered on another vehicle.

If the dealer cannot add the plate before registration, you must accept the car with standard plates and follow the process for adding a plate during the lease.

2. Adding Plates During the Lease

If you’ve already collected your Motability car, you can still add a personalised plate. The process involves:

  • Logging into your Motability online account to find your V5C document number.
  • Following the DVLA’s online instructions to assign the plate to your vehicle.
  • Ensuring you have the necessary documentation (V750 or V778).

If you encounter any issues, Motability customer support can assist you.

3. Removing Plates at the End of the Lease

Before returning your Motability car at the end of the lease, you must remove the personalised plate if you want to keep it. The steps include:

  • Using your Motability online account to remove the plate.
  • Keeping the plate registered with the DVLA if you plan to use it again.
  • Providing the V5C document number to complete the retention process.

Motability will send a reminder about four weeks before the lease ends, ensuring you have time to manage the plate transfer.

Important Considerations

Costs and Fees

While Motability allows personalised plates, any associated costs—such as purchasing the plate, registration fees, and transfer costs—are the responsibility of the customer.

Dealer Assistance

If you plan to assign the plate to your next Motability car, speak to your dealer early. Some dealers can handle the transfer, making the process smoother.

Restrictions

Motability requires that personalised plates comply with DVLA regulations. Plates must not be offensive or misleading, and they must meet standard formatting rules.

Yes, you can put a personalised number plate on a Motability car, but it requires careful planning. Whether adding a plate at the start of the lease, during the lease, or removing it at the end, following the correct procedures ensures a smooth experience. If you’re considering a personalised plate, check with your dealer and Motability to ensure compliance with all requirements.