Number plates are a familiar sight to anyone who’s ever been on a UK road. But behind those combinations of letters and numbers lies a system rich in detail, history and even a little mystery. Whether you’re a new driver, a motoring enthusiast or simply curious, here are ten things worth knowing about UK number plates.
1. The Current Format Explained
Since 2001, UK number plates have followed a set structure: two letters, followed by two numbers, followed by three more letters (for example, AB12 CDE). The first two letters are the local memory tag, showing where the vehicle was registered. The two numbers are the age identifier, while the final three letters are random.
2. Number Plates Reveal a Vehicle’s Age
Those two digits in the middle of a modern number plate are more than just a random number. They actually tell you when the car was registered. For example, a plate with “23” was registered between March and August 2023, while “73” refers to the period between September 2023 and February 2024. This handy system helps quickly identify the age of a vehicle.
3. Regional Codes Tell You Where It Was Registered
The first two letters on a plate represent the DVLA local office where the vehicle was originally registered. For example, “LA” indicates London, “MA” is for Manchester, and “SC” would be a vehicle from Scotland. There’s a full list of these regional codes, and some people even choose personalised plates that reflect a particular location.
4. Private Plates Follow Different Rules
Personalised or cherished number plates allow drivers to choose combinations of letters and numbers that spell names, words or initials. The DVLA holds regular auctions for these registrations, and prices can range from a few hundred pounds to hundreds of thousands. However, one rule remains firm: you cannot use a private plate to make a car appear newer than it is.
5. Black and Silver Plates Are for Classic Cars Only
You might have seen cars with black number plates and silver or white lettering. These are only permitted on classic vehicles, specifically those built before 1 January 1980 and registered as “historic”. They offer a vintage look that matches the age and aesthetic of older vehicles.
6. It’s Illegal to Alter or Obscure a Plate
UK law is strict when it comes to the visibility and format of number plates. You cannot alter the spacing of characters, use non-standard fonts or add background patterns. Tampering with a plate to disguise the registration, even slightly, can lead to fines of up to £1,000 and an MOT failure.
7. The Font Is Strictly Regulated
All standard UK Custom number plates must use the Charles Wright typeface. This font was chosen for its readability, both to the human eye and automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems. Any variation in typeface, size or thickness can result in a plate being deemed illegal.
8. EVs and Green Number Plates
Since late 2020, electric vehicles (EVs) have been eligible for number plates with a green strip on the left-hand side. These plates make it easier to identify zero-emission vehicles and could be used in the future to unlock perks like lower parking charges or access to clean air zones.
9. The Most Expensive Plates Ever Sold
The world of private plates can get surprisingly competitive. Some plates have sold for staggering amounts. The plate “25 O” was bought for £518,000 in 2014, while “F1” is rumoured to be worth millions. The allure? Status, uniqueness, and a touch of automotive glamour.
10. Temporary and Export Plates Exist Too
Most people only ever see standard plates, but temporary red or orange plates are issued for vehicles in transit or awaiting registration. There are also export plates for vehicles being shipped abroad. These special plates serve unique legal purposes and are rarely seen by the average driver.
There’s much more to number plates than meets the eye. From legal requirements to regional identifiers and personalised flair, they tell a story about the vehicle they’re attached to. Understanding how they work not only satisfies curiosity but can help when buying or selling a car.
Have you ever spotted a particularly clever or funny number plate? Share it in the comments below! And if you found these facts useful, feel free to share this post with fellow drivers.