It's not as simple as having the plates made up in Halfords and bolting them to your car.
Follow these steps to make sure you register your new number correctly:
STEP 1
First off, you need a registration number to attach to your car, whether it's a new or used car. Registration numbers can be bought from the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency), which is the government's body that keeps a record of all registration numbers in the UK. You can also buy from specialist dealers, who sell all sorts of different configurations.
STEP 2
When you've picked the perfect number for you, you must obtain legal ownership of the number. This requires a V750 Certificate of Entitlement form, which is available from your local DVLA office. When this has been issued, you can transfer the personalised registration to your car.
STEP 3
You can keep the personal registration on retention for an additional fee. Or, the V750 Certificate of Entitlement form allows you a fixed period before you must either use the number to register a car or lose the number.
STEP 4
To register your car with the personalised number, contact your local DVLA office, either by post or in person.
STEP 5
You will need a registration document and the V750 form to attach the number to a new car. To change the number of an existing car, you will need an insurance certificate, Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax), an MoT certificate if applicable and the V750 form. You will also need to complete a V317 form to transfer your chosen registration onto a previously registered car. In both cases an assignment fee will be charged by the DVLA.
STEP 6
Registering a car with a new, personalised number plate takes about four days from start to finish. In this time, it is illegal to use the car on public roads as it is not yet registered.
