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April 15, 2025 BY

How to Buy a Number Plate in the UK: A Simple Guide for Harrogate Drivers

Whether you’re personalising your car or replacing a lost plate, buying a number plate can seem confusing. At Auto Discount Harrogate, we’re here to make it easy. In this post, we’ll walk you through how to buy number plates in the UK legally, safely, and with style.

🚘 Why Would You Need a New Number Plate?

There are a few common reasons drivers come to us for new plates:

  • You’ve bought a private (personalised) registration number.
  • Your current plates are damaged or worn out.
  • Your plates were stolen or lost.
  • You want show plates for events or display.

🔢 Types of Number Plates

1. Standard DVLA Plates

Issued by the DVLA when you register a new car or change ownership.

2. Private / Personalised Plates

These can include your initials, a name, or a special number (like “H4RRY”). You can buy these from:

  • The DVLA (official site)
  • Number plate dealers
  • Private sellers

3. Show Plates

Not road legal these are used for car shows, photoshoots, or decoration.

✅ Legal Requirements for Road-Use Plates

Your number plate must follow these rules:

  • White plate at the front, yellow at the back
  • Black characters on a reflective background
  • Standardised font (Charles Wright font)
  • No background patterns
  • Registered with the DVLA
  • Only fitted by registered plate suppliers (like us!)

You’ll also need to show:

  • Proof of identity (e.g., driving licence)
  • Proof of entitlement to the registration number (e.g., V5C logbook)

🛒 Where to Buy Number Plates

1. From Auto Discount Harrogate

We supply fully road-legal number plates, made on-site while you wait. Just bring your ID and V5C, and we’ll handle the rest.

2. Online Plate Makers

Great for customising, but be cautious—many are show plate makers, not legal suppliers.

3. DVLA Personalised Registration Website

Buy private plates directly from the DVLA at www.gov.uk/personalised-vehicle-registration-numbers

💡 Can I Transfer a Private Plate?

Yes. If you’ve bought a personalised plate, you can transfer it to your car using the DVLA’s online service. You’ll need your V5C, and the DVLA will usually send confirmation within a few days.