When you assign a new registration to a vehicle, the previous registration is held by the DVLA for future use on that vehicle should you ever need to revert to the original number. However, you may want to keep your previous number if it is personal. To retain your previous number, you must apply to the DVLA using the V317 Application to transfer or retain the vehicle registration number along with the appropriate fee and the V5C documentation. This can also be completed online.
