How to Transfer a Registration Number From One Car to Another
, by Reece Dennis, 4 min reading time
Transferring a registration number from one vehicle to another is a common process in the UK, whether you’re moving a private plate to a new car, selling a vehicle and keeping the plate, or reassigning a cherished registration. While it might sound complicated, the process is actually quite straightforward when done correctly through the DVLA.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to transfer a registration from car to car, what you’ll need, how long it takes, and what to do once the transfer is complete.
Can You Transfer Any Registration Plate?
Before starting, it’s important to check that both vehicles are eligible for a plate transfer. The DVLA has a few key rules:
-
Both vehicles must be registered with the DVLA
-
Both must be taxed (or declared SORN if applicable)
-
Both must have a valid MOT (if required due to age)
-
The registration must not make the vehicle appear newer than it is
If the plate fails any of these checks, the transfer may be rejected.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
To transfer a registration online or by post, you’ll typically need:
-
The V5C log book for both vehicles
-
The V778 retention certificate (if the plate is currently on retention)
-
Or the V750 certificate of entitlement (for newly purchased private plates)
If the plate is already on one vehicle and being moved directly to another, the process can be completed online without posting documents.
How to Transfer a Registration Online (Fastest Method)
The online DVLA service is the quickest and most popular option.
Step-by-step:
-
Visit the DVLA’s registration transfer service
-
Enter the registration number you want to move
-
Provide details for both vehicles
-
Pay the £80 DVLA transfer fee (if applicable)
-
Submit the application
In most cases, the transfer is completed instantly, and both vehicles will be updated on the DVLA database straight away.
Transferring a Registration by Post
If you can’t use the online service, you can apply by post using the relevant DVLA forms. This method is slower and can take 2–4 weeks, depending on processing times.
Make sure all documents are correct and complete to avoid delays.
What Happens After the Transfer?
Once the transfer is complete:
-
The donor vehicle will be assigned its original or a new age-related registration
-
The recipient vehicle will receive the new registration
-
Updated V5C log books will be sent out by the DVLA
-
You must fit new number plates before driving
Driving with the old plates after the transfer is illegal and can result in fines.
Updating Insurance and Other Records
After transferring a registration, remember to update:
-
Your car insurance provider
-
Breakdown cover
-
Parking permits
-
Congestion charge accounts
-
Any finance or leasing company involved
Failing to update these details can cause issues with cover or enforcement notices.
Ordering New Number Plates
Once the DVLA confirms the transfer, you’ll need replacement number plates made to the new registration. Always ensure they are fully road legal, compliant with UK spacing, font, and sizing rules.
If you’re choosing a raised-letter style, make sure plates are manufactured correctly and fitted securely to avoid damage or legal issues.
Final Thoughts
Transferring a registration from one car to another is a simple process when done the right way. Using the DVLA’s online service is the fastest and easiest option, and as long as both vehicles meet the eligibility criteria, the transfer can often be completed the same day.
If you’re planning a transfer, make sure your paperwork is ready, update your records once complete, and always use DVLA-compliant number plates before returning to the road.
FAQs: How to Transfer a Registration Number in the UK
-
Can I transfer a private registration from one car to another?
Can I transfer a private registration from one car to another?
-
How much does it cost to transfer a registration number?
DVLA charges £80 to transfer or retain a private registration number. This fee applies whether transferring online or by post.
-
How long does it take to transfer a number plate?
Online transfers are often completed immediately. Postal applications can take 2–4 weeks, depending on DVLA processing times.
-
Can I transfer a registration from a scrapped or written-off car?
No. You cannot transfer a registration from a vehicle that has been scrapped, written off, or permanently exported. In these cases, the registration must usually be retained before disposal.
-
Will I need new number plates after the transfer?
Yes. Once the transfer is complete, you’ll need to display new physical number plates on both vehicles to match their updated registrations
-
Do I need to tell my insurance company after transferring a plate?
Yes. You must inform your insurer of the new registration number to ensure your policy details remain accurate and valid.
-
Can I transfer a registration if the vehicle is on finance?
Possibly. If the vehicle is on finance or lease, you’ll usually need written permission from the finance company before transferring the registration.
-
What happens to the old registration number?
The vehicle will usually revert to its original registration number if it had one. If not, the DVLA will assign an age-appropriate registration.
-
Can I transfer a registration to a newer or older car?
Yes, but you cannot make a vehicle appear newer than it is. For example, you can’t put a “23” plate on a 2019 car.
Tags
Blog posts
-
, by Reece Dennis Number Plate Theft in the UK: What You Need to Know
-
, by Reece Dennis What Are Square Number Plates Used for in the UK?
-
, by Reece Dennis Why Are Number Plates Different Colours?
-
, by Reece Dennis Record Numbers of Cloned Number Plates: What Drivers Need to Know
-
, by Reece Dennis How to Choose the Best Number Plate Holder for Your Car
