One of the most frequently asked questions we get here at NetPlates is...
How do I transfer a number plate?...
The short answer is that it's never been simpler...
We offer to handle the reg transfer process in full from start to finish for no additional cost. This includes the switchover of your MOT and car tax, as well as the re-issue of a new logbook to yourself.
If you would rather transfer the number plate yourself, NetPlates can issue you with a V750 or V778 certificate, allowing you to carry out a transfer onto the vehicle in your own time using the DVLA’s online reg transfer system, with the certificate valid for up to 10 years.
What are the DVLA Requirements for a Reg Transfer?
All Number Plate Transfers are carried out through the DVLA’s transfer system, whether this be via the online system or the old fashioned postal system. The DVLA have requirements in place that must be met in order to carry out a successful transfer which we have listed below: Requirements for a DVLA Reg Transfer:
- When transferring between two vehicles, both the new and old vehicle must be registered with the DVLA.
- Both vehicles must be available for a DVLA inspection should the DVLA request.
- Both vehicles must be of the type that requires an MOT. This being Motorbikes, cars, etc or alternatively, the vehicle must have a heavy goods vehicle test certificate (HGV).
- Vehicles manufactures prior to 1960 must have a valid MOT in order to transfer a registration number.
- A reg transfer will not be accepted if the registration number consists of a Q or NIQ in the case of Northern Ireland registered vehicles.
- The vehicle must have valid tax in place or have a SORN (Statutory off Road Notification) in place continuously for the past 5 years. If the SORN has been in place for longer than 5 years then the vehicle must be taxed.
- The registration number must not make the vehicle look newer than it is, for example using a 10 plate registration number on a car registered in 2005.
- The vehicle must be able to move under its own power.
Applying to Transfer a Number Plate via Post
If you wish to apply to complete a reg transfer by post then you will need to send the completed V750 or V778 document to the DVLA along with the vehicles logbook (V5C).
The address to send these too can be found on the documents themselves.
If your vehicle does not require an inspection, the postal number plate transfer process should be completed within 7-10 working days.
What Happens After a Number Plate Has Been Transferred?
If the number plates are transferred online you'll receive an eV948 form also known as a Number Plate Authorisation Certificate. This can be used to get a set of plastic plates made up. Since the number has already been transferred by this point, the plates can go straight onto the vehicle.
A new logbook (V5C) will then follow via post to the registered address. The DVLA advise to allow up to 4 to 6 weeks for this to be received. If you have applied to complete the reg transfer via post, you will not receive an eV948 and will therefore have to wait to receive the new logbook (V5C) in the post before putting the new plates onto the vehicle.
Transferring a Number to a Brand New Vehicle
If you are looking to transfer a registration number onto a brand new, un-issued vehicle then a nominee name will need to be added to the vehicle. NetPlates can do this free of charge prior to sending you out the certificate or alternatively you can add a nominee when assigning a registration number yourself by completing section 2 of the V750 or V778, this is again free of charge.
What to do when Changing/Selling a Vehicle?
If at any point you are looking to transfer your personalised number plate to a different vehicle or you are potentially looking to sell your vehicle then you will need to retain your personalised number plate back onto a V778 retention document. This can be done online using the DVLAs transfer system or alternatively you can complete V317 application from to do so via the postal transfer system for a fee of £80.
The certificate, received within 7-10 working days, can be used to transfer the registration number at any point within 10 years, whilst the old vehicle will be issued with a new number plate.
If you're buying a number plate, you can always get started with the search box at the top of this page. If you're selling, you can get a totally free valuation via the form on our Sell a Plate page. You can then list your plate for sale with us - with no contract, no obligations, and once again, without charge.
