Sitemap for Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

What do DVLA, VRO and DOT stand for?
What is a prefix registration?
What is a suffix registration?
What is a current style registration?
What is a dateless registration?
The Cherished Transfer and Retention Schemes
Once I have bought a personalised registration mark, do I have to put it straight onto a vehicle?
I have seen my registration number in one of your adverts or on your website, but it is not for sale and I haven't given permission for it to be advertised. Why is it listed?
How do I get a specific number released if it has never been issued?
How can I safeguard my entitlement to a number?
What if my vehicle is stolen and not recovered?
What if my vehicle is "written off"?
What if my vehicle has been scrapped?
Are there any special rules for motorcycles / mopeds?
I have an old vehicle which is not registered at DVLA. Can I register the vehicle and transfer or retain its registration number?
My vehicle has a "Q" prefix registration number. Can it participate in the transfer and retention schemes?
My V5 registration document says my registration number is non-transferable. Can I transfer a cherished number onto my vehicle?
I have seen Northern Ireland registration numbers advertised. Can I transfer one onto my vehicle?
I have an old style log book / V5 registration document but the vehicle no longer exists. Can I claim the registration number?
What is a registration number and who has entitlement to it?

What do DVLA, VRO and DOT stand for?
What documents do I need to buy a registration number?
How much is the transfer fee?
Why are some, but not all, registrations subject to VAT?
What happens to the registration that is currently on my vehicle if I buy a new registration?
How long does a transfer take?
If I am having my registration issued on a retention document what do I do when I receive the certificate. and do I have to pay any more money at the VRO?
What happens to my payment if I change my mind before the transfer has been completed and I no longer want the registration I have agreed to purchase from you?
I paid a part payment by credit card. May I also pay the remaining balance by credit card?
Can I pay by methods other than credit card?
My V5 document says my registration number is non-transferable. Can I transfer a Cherished Number onto my vehicle?
Why are some transfers faster than others?
How can I check the status of my transfer?
Does the price include the actual number plates that go on my vehicle?
Can RegTransfers make me a set of plates that spell a name or a word?
Why are the Rules of the governing bodies so strict?
Does the recipient vehicle need to be inspected like the donor vehicle?
What restrictions apply to the transfer of a registration with a year letter?
The windows on my car are etched. Does this effect the chance of being re-issued with the number presently showing on my vehicle, when I transfer my Cherished Number at some time in the future?
What happens if I need to tax or MOT my vehicle while the transfer is being processed?
Is it possible to transfer a cherished registration to a vehicle with a "Q" mark?
Do I have to keep the registration on my vehicle for a minimum period before I can transfer or sell it again?
If the recipient vehicle already has a mark can I transfer that mark to another vehicle or to retention at the same time?
If I am buying a new unregistered vehicle can I transfer a number onto it?
Are there any restrictions or special rules about buying a personalised registration for my motorcycle or moped?
Can I ask RegTransfers to try and obtain an un-issued prefix combination?

Can I change the amount shown on the agreement that shall be returned to me?
Can I increase the amount shown on the agreement that shall be returned to me after a buyer has been found for my registration?
Do I have to pay for a new registration for my vehicle once mine has been sold?
What sort of number will my vehicle be issued with after the transfer?
When do I get paid?
Can I cancel my agreement with RegTransfers to sell my registration?
My Vehicle is not taxed and has no current MOT. May I transfer the registration from it to another vehicle or to retention?
Can I scrap my vehicle before the sale of the number?
My log book states the number on my vehicle is non-transferable. Can I still sell it?
I have a cherished number on a tractor. Can I transfer it?
My vehicle no longer exists but I still have the old V5/log book. Can I still transfer the registration number?
Where do RegTransfers advertise?
How will I know if you find a purchaser for my registration?

How was this new format chosen?
Why did my region get the letter that has been assigned to it?
Why have they started the numbers from 51?
Will I be able to transfer a new style mark onto my old vehicle?
I live in the Isle of Wight, will there still be a distinct mark for the Isle?
I live in the Scilly Isles, will there still be a distinct mark for the Islands?
Is the system going to change in Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man as well?
Why is it necessary to have a common font for all number plates?
Why did the rule on fonts change? 
Will motorists have to change their existing number plates to the new font?
Will motorists with "cherished" registration marks be affected by the new mandatory font?
My vehicle was manufactured before 1 January 1973 but not registered until later.  What type of number plate should I display?
Is it legal to display the Euro-symbol?
Are there plans to make the Euro-plate compulsory?
What is the effect of the Euro-plate on UK registered vehicles?
Can other symbols (e.g. national flag, football team crest) be used on number plates?
Do I have to change my number plate if it is cracked or broken?
If I need to replace one of my number plates, do I need to change both?
Are 3D characters allowed?
Is a honeycombed or other background pattern permitted?
Are stick-on number plates allowed?
Why was the first number to be issued the number 51?
What is the significance of the first two letters in the new registration system?