What is Motability?
If you're reading this then you're probably already familiar with the scheme, but please bear with us while we quickly explain it to those who don't know as much. They may have family or friends who use Motability and who may fancy a personal plate.
In the bad old days, people with disabilities were given cheap, specialised vehicles. These, very basic, vehicles may have addressed some practical needs but certainly made no concessions to dignity or discretion. They also had a number of safety problems.
Fortunately, there has been some progress since then. The Motability scheme means that disabled people who receive qualifying mobility allowances have access to a wide range of cars, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs. The scheme bundles insurance, servicing, MOTs, breakdown cover and maintenance into a single all-inclusive lease package. It currently supports around 860,000 people across the UK.
How do I add a private plate to my Motability car?
As we've seen, Motability cars are now just normal cars with a few necessary alterations to suit the driver's personal requirements. Motability users often rely on their vehicles considerably more than most, so it's not surprising that many come to feel quite a bond with their cars. The more one thinks about it, the more appropriate a personal number plate seems.
Here's how to go about it.
- Motability cars are supplied on a lease arrangement, so you would need to contact Motability for approval. The Motability website has a live chat facility, or you can call 0300 456 4566.
- If adding your personal plates at the start of the lease period, check with the dealer who is supplying the vehicle. They may be able to add your private registration before delivery. If they can't arrange the plates, contact Motability directly and they will assist.If adding your plates during the lease period, contact Motability directly and they will assist.
NB: In either case, you will need your V778 Retention Document or V750 Certificate of Entitlement.
How do I remove or transfer a private plate from my Motability car?
Removing or transferring your private registration at the end of the lease period is pretty easy too, as Motability will contact you before the lease ends and will provide information about what you need to do. Please note that as of December 2025, long term lease extensions are no longer routinely offered, so it is important to plan ahead and arrange to have your private plate removed or transferred in good time.
The process depends on whether you want to save your plates for later use or have them put straight onto your next Motability car.
To keep/retain your personal number plates
Please see our page explaining how to retain a private registration with the DVLA's retention service.
How to transfer your private number plates to your new Motability vehicle
Contact the dealer supplying your next vehicle and ask if they can help you to arrange the transfer of your plates onto the new vehicle before delivery. Make sure you do this in plenty of time to allow for a bit of red tape.
If they are unable to help, contact Motability directly and they will advise you.
Choosing the right private plate for your Motability vehicle
Whether you have a Motability car or a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV), a private registration is a great way to make it really feel like your own. Driving may be a necessity but it can be fun too.
Regtransfers has the UK's biggest range of private registrations for sale. Whether you fancy your name, your initials, your favourite football team or just something to raise a smile, we have a selection for you to search or browse.
Visit our search page to get started or, if you're really stuck for inspiration, getting in contact with us couldn't be easier. We are open 9am to 9pm, 7 days a week so you can call us anytime on 01582 967777. Alternatively, you can contact us through our contact form.
FAQs
Yes, the process for adding a private plate to a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle is the same as for a standard Motability car. You will need Motability's approval and the relevant DVLA documents before proceeding.
The process typically takes two to four weeks, though delays can occur if documents are missing or incorrect. It is recommended to apply early, particularly if you want to add or remove a plate around the time your lease starts or ends.
Adding a private plate to a Motability car is free. However, if you want to retain your plate at the end of your lease, there is an £80 fee payable to the DVLA. Your leasing company may also charge an administration fee for arranging the transfer.
If you do not remove your private plate before returning your Motability vehicle, the plate will stay with the car and you could lose it permanently. It is recommended to start the retention or transfer process at least six to eight weeks before your lease expires to avoid this.
Yes, you can buy a private plate to display on your Motability car. Regtransfers has the UK's largest range of private number plates, from names and initials to personalised combinations. Once you have purchased your plate, our team can help you complete the transfer with our fully managed transfer service.
