Number Plate News Around the World – 2025

2025 number plate news

In 2025, global number plate trends reflect rising demand for personalised registrations, increased regulation, and record-breaking auction sales. From the UK’s 25 and 75 series releases to California’s controversial plate bans and Jersey’s £350,000 scooter-mounted plate sale, the year has been packed with headlines. This article explores the latest developments, including theft and cloning statistics, emerging design trends, and notable auctions—plus links to funny number plates and digital plate innovations on Regplates.com.

As personalised plates continue to rise in popularity, 2025 has delivered a fascinating mix of innovation, controversy, and record-breaking sales across the globe. From regulatory crackdowns to creative trends and high-profile auctions, number plates are making headlines far beyond the motoring world. Here’s a roundup of the most compelling stories and developments in the world of vehicle registration this year.

UK Releases: 25 and 75 Series Plates

In the UK, 2025 marks the release of two new registration series: the 25 series in March and the 75 series in September. These formats—such as RO25 LYN and VA25 RDY—are already proving popular among buyers seeking plates that reflect names, initials, or clever wordplay.

The DVLA continues to enforce strict guidelines around offensive or misleading combinations. This year’s banned list includes politically charged and anti-ULEZ plates like “NO74 LEZ,” reflecting growing tensions around environmental regulations.

Theft and Cloning on the Rise

A Freedom of Information request to the DVLA revealed a sharp increase in number plate theft and cloning. Between 2021 and 2024:

  • Plate thefts rose by 68%, with 5,683 cases reported in 2024 compared to 3,376 in 2021.
  • Cloning incidents jumped 41%, reaching 10,461 cases in 2024.

Criminals use cloned plates to evade tolls, commit fuel theft, and avoid detection in low-emission zones. Experts recommend fitting tamper-proof screws and reporting incidents immediately to the police, DVLA, and insurers.

California Controversy: “IAMISIS” Plate Banned

In the US, a California woman named Isis Wharton faced backlash over her personalised plate “IAMISIS.” Although named after the Egyptian goddess, the DMV deemed the plate potentially offensive due to its similarity to the acronym for the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

Despite Wharton’s claim that the plate reflects pride in her name, the DMV cited Section 206 of the California Code, which allows refusal of plates linked to violence or illegality. Legal experts argue the plate may be protected under the First Amendment, and Wharton is reportedly challenging the decision.

This case highlights the fine line between personal expression and public sensitivity in plate design—a challenge faced by registration authorities worldwide.

Jersey’s £350,000 Plate Sale

One of the year’s most eye-catching sales occurred in Jersey, where a single-letter, single-digit plate sold for £350,000—mounted on a broken-down motor scooter. Jersey law requires plates to be sold only when displayed on a vehicle, hence the inclusion of the scooter.

This sale marks the second-highest price ever paid for a Jersey plate, following the £380,000 sale of “J4” in 2020. The Channel Islands’ unique plate system continues to attract collectors and investors, with rare combinations commanding premium prices.

Global Trends: Personalisation and 3D Plates

Across Europe and North America, 2025 has seen a surge in demand for 3D and 4D plates, offering raised lettering and glossy finishes that add a luxury touch to vehicles. These plates are especially popular among owners of high-end cars and classic models.

Other global trends include:

  • Short names and initials: Plates like “MS 1” or “MC 11” remain in high demand.
  • Creative substitutions: Using numbers to mimic letters (e.g., “L0V 3” for “LOVE”) is still a favourite.
  • Digital plates: States like Arizona and California continue to expand trials of e-ink digital plates, offering real-time updates and theft protection.

For a deeper dive into how digital plates are shaping smart cities and mobility, check out our article on digital number plates and smart cities.

Auction Highlights: Bonhams and Beyond

Bonhams continues to lead the way in high-profile plate auctions, with several standout sales in 2025. While exact figures vary, plates featuring single letters, historic combinations, or culturally significant numbers often fetch six-figure sums.

Collectors are drawn to plates not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for their investment potential. You can explore current listings and past sales on Bonhams’ official auction site.

Regulatory Shifts: Paper Tags Phased Out

In Texas, law enforcement is phasing out temporary paper license tags, which have been widely abused by criminals to disguise vehicles used in crimes. These tags are easy to forge and have been linked to toll evasion, speeding, and fuel theft.

The move toward permanent metal plates aims to reduce fraud and improve traceability. Other US states are expected to follow suit, with digital plate trials offering a long-term solution.

Plate Ban Lists: Humour vs. Offense

Every year, registration authorities release lists of banned plates—often a mix of rude, political, or culturally insensitive combinations. In the UK, the DVLA’s latest list includes:

  • “TO25 POT” (potential drug reference)
  • “AR25 HOL” (possibly offensive slang)
  • “NO74 LEZ” (anti-ULEZ sentiment)

While some combinations are banned for legitimate reasons, others spark debate over censorship and free speech. For a lighter look at plate creativity, check out our roundup of funny number plates that made it through the filters.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Plates?

As we move into the latter half of the decade, expect continued innovation in plate technology, design, and regulation. Key developments to watch include:

  • AI-powered plate recognition: Already used in traffic enforcement, these systems are expanding into parking, tolling, and even retail analytics.
  • Blockchain-based registration: Some countries are exploring secure, decentralised systems for plate issuance and tracking.
  • Global harmonisation: With more vehicles crossing borders, international standards for plate visibility and format may become a priority.

2025 has proven that number plates are far more than functional identifiers—they’re cultural symbols, legal battlegrounds, and collector’s items. Whether you’re a plate enthusiast, investor, or simply curious about the latest trends, this year’s news offers plenty to explore.

At Regplates.com, we’re proud to stay ahead of the curve, offering expert insights, personalised plate services, and updates on everything from auctions to legislation. Stay tuned for more global coverage as the year unfolds.