How to Become a Registered Number Plate Supplier in the UK

May 17 2025, by Reece Dennis, 4 min reading time

If you're looking to legally manufacture and sell number plates in the UK, you must become a DVLA Registered Number Plate Supplier (RNPS). Whether you're starting a number plate business, running a garage, or offering custom plates as an add-on service, registering ensures you're compliant with UK law and trusted by customers.

In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to do, how to apply, and why it’s worth registering.

🚗 What Is the RNPS?

The Register of Number Plate Suppliers (RNPS) is managed by the DVLA and ensures that all legal number plate suppliers follow the necessary guidelines for producing and selling plates. Once you're registered, you're authorised to:

• Sell road legal number plates

• Display your supplier name and postcode on the plates

• Order and use legal reflective materials

📝 What Do You Need to Register?

To become a registered number plate supplier, you must meet the following requirements:

1. A Business Premises in the UK

You must have a physical location or trading address in the UK where you operate or sell plates.

2. A Valid Trading Name

Your business must have a clear trading name that will appear on all legal number plates you supply.

3. Secure Record-Keeping

Suppliers are required to keep records of every plate sold, including identity and vehicle documents. This helps prevent plate misuse or fraud.

📄 How to Apply

You can apply to join the RNPS online via the official DVLA page.

➡️ Apply here: DVLA RNPS Registration Page

The application requires:

• Business details

• Proof of UK trading address

• Payment of the £40 registration fee

Once accepted, you’ll receive a unique RNPS number and be added to the official list of suppliers.

⚠️ Legal Responsibilities

As a registered supplier, you must:

• Only produce plates for customers who provide correct documentation (V5C, ID)

• Use legal materials (BS AU 145e compliant)

• Display your business name and postcode on every plate

• Keep detailed records for at least 3 years

Failure to comply may result in fines or removal from the RNPS.

💡 Why Register?

• ✅ Legally sell road-legal plates

• ✅ Grow your business with confidence

• ✅ Offer MOT-compliant plates

• ✅ Access trade pricing from component suppliers

• ✅ Build trust with customers and garages

If you're serious about selling legal number plates in the UK — whether 3D gel, 4D, or standard — becoming an RNPS-registered supplier is a must.

🔧 Already Registered? Sell or Fit Plates With Confidence

If you're already an RNPS member, make sure your website and marketing reflect that. Add your RNPS number to your footer or product pages, and explain to customers why this status matters — it builds trust and shows you're compliant.

✅ Key Takeaways:

• You must be DVLA registered to legally sell or fit number plates in the UK.

• Apply through the official DVLA RNPS portal.

• You’ll need a UK business premises, trading name, and record-keeping system.

• Once approved, you can sell fully DVLA-compliant number plates legally.

📦 Need Number Plate Components?

If you're a new or existing supplier, Best Merch offers wholesale components, blank plates, and adhesives to help you start strong. Contact us for trade prices and bulk deals.

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DVLA Rules

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