What Actually Happens After You Click ‘Buy’?

A Behind-the-Scenes Timeline from Payment to V5C Update

Buying a personalised number plate is an exciting moment. That click of the ‘Buy’ button represents more than just a transaction—it sets in motion a chain of official processes, checks, and updates that ultimately end with your new registration appearing on your vehicle’s V5C logbook.

At Regplates.com, we pride ourselves on making this journey smooth and transparent. But what actually happens behind the scenes once you’ve completed your purchase? Let’s walk through the timeline step by step.

Step 1: Payment Confirmation and Order Logging

The very first stage is the secure processing of your payment. Once you’ve clicked ‘Buy’, your order is logged into our system.

• Payment Security: Transactions are processed through encrypted channels, ensuring your details remain safe.
• Order Validation: Our team immediately checks that the registration you’ve chosen is available and correctly allocated.

This is the moment your personalised plate begins its journey from concept to reality.

Step 2: DVLA Allocation and Certificate of Entitlement

Once your order is confirmed, the DVLA issues a Certificate of Entitlement (V750) or, in some cases, a Retention Document (V778). These certificates prove that you have the legal right to assign the registration to a vehicle.

• V750 Certificate: Issued for brand-new registrations purchased directly.
• V778 Certificate: Issued when a registration is being transferred or retained.

At Regplates.com, we handle this paperwork on your behalf, ensuring everything is correctly processed and delivered to you.

Step 3: Dispatch of Documentation

After DVLA approval, the certificate is sent out. Depending on the type of purchase, you may receive:

• A physical certificate by post.
• A digital confirmation, which can be used for assignment.

This document is crucial—it’s the legal proof of ownership and the key to moving forward with the assignment process.

Step 4: Assigning the Plate to Your Vehicle

With your certificate in hand, the next step is assigning the registration to your chosen vehicle. This can be done online or by post via Regplates.com.

• Online Assignment: The DVLA’s digital service allows instant updates.
• Postal Assignment: Sending the certificate and V5C logbook by mail takes longer but is equally valid.

At this stage, your vehicle’s records are updated to reflect the new registration.

Step 5: V5C Logbook Update

Once the DVLA processes the assignment, your vehicle’s V5C logbook is updated. This is the official record of your car’s details, including its registration number.

• A new V5C is printed and sent to you.
• The turnaround time is usually 3–5 working days for online assignments, longer for postal submissions.

This is the moment your personalised plate becomes fully official.

Step 6: Manufacturing Your Plates

While the paperwork is being processed, your physical plates are manufactured. At Regplates.com, we use high-quality, DVLA‑approved materials to ensure durability and compliance.

• Plates are made to exact specifications.
• Security features such as supplier details and BS AU 145e markings are included.

This ensures your plates are road‑legal and ready to fit.

Step 7: Fitting Your Plates

Once your plates arrive, you can fit them to your vehicle. Many customers choose to do this themselves, while others prefer professional fitting.

• Plates must be securely attached and clearly visible.
• Spacing and font must comply with DVLA regulations.

This is the stage where your personalised registration finally becomes part of your car’s identity.

Step 8: Receiving Your Updated V5C

Within days of assignment, your updated V5C logbook arrives in the post. This document confirms that your vehicle is now officially registered with its new personalised plate.

• Keep this document safe—it’s essential for insurance, resale, and legal purposes.
• The updated V5C is the final milestone in the process.

Typical Timeline: From Click to Completion

Here’s a simplified timeline of what happens after you click ‘Buy’:

Stage	Action	Typical Timeframe
Payment	Secure transaction logged	Immediate
DVLA Allocation	Certificate issued	1–3 working days
Documentation	Certificate dispatched	3–5 working days
Assignment	Online or postal	Instant to 2 weeks
V5C Update	New logbook issued	3–7 working days
Plate Manufacture	Plates produced	1–2 working days
Plate Fitting	Customer or professional	Flexible
Final Confirmation	Updated V5C received	1–2 weeks

Why Use Regplates.com

Navigating the DVLA process can feel daunting, but that’s where Regplates.com makes the difference. We handle the complexities, ensuring your purchase moves smoothly from payment to plate fitting.

• Expert Guidance: Our team has decades of experience in personalised registrations.
• Streamlined Service: We liaise directly with the DVLA to minimise delays.
• Customer Support: We’re here to answer questions at every stage.

For more details on how we can help, visit our buying personalised number plates page or explore our number plate transfer services.

Key Notes on DVLA Involvement

The DVLA is central to the process. Every personalised registration must be officially recognised and recorded.

• Certificates of entitlement are issued by the DVLA.
• Assignments and V5C updates are processed through their systems.
• Compliance with DVLA regulations ensures your plate is legal.

For official guidance, you can visit the DVLA personalised registrations page.

Clicking ‘Buy’ is just the beginning of an exciting journey. Behind the scenes, a carefully orchestrated process unfolds—from secure payment and DVLA allocation to plate manufacture and V5C update.

By the time your updated logbook arrives, your personalised plate has passed through multiple checks and approvals, ensuring it’s fully legal and uniquely yours.

At Regplates.com, we’re proud to guide you through every step, making sure the process is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Your plate isn’t just a number—it’s a statement, a symbol, and a part of your vehicle’s story.

• Uncategorised
• 13th Nov, 2025