- DVLA Recongnised Reseller
- Family Run Since 2009
- 4.9 Rated
- Speak to a Real Person
Trusted by Our Customers
Don't just take our word for it — here's what our customers say.
Trusted Across the UK
How to get the Most of Your Number Plate Search
We at Motoreg know it may difficult on where to start with a number plate search.
The first thing to consider with your number plate search is to find the right style. Over the last century number plates in the UK there has been various number formats issued so its important to know the differences when starting your number plate search. When searching our database of number plates you will find the results of searches has number plates that include all the various number plate formats over the last century since registrations were first used from classic dateless number plates to the current style number plates.
Here are the different styles of number plates that have been used on UK cars:
- Current Style Number Plates
- Prefix Style Number Plates
- Suffix Style Number Plates
- Classic Dateless Number Plates
- Dateless Northern Ireland Number Plates
Our database has a huge amount of number plates so we at Motoreg Ltd always say to help your number plate search the more information you give, the more accurate your results of number plates available you will get.
Another tip on how to best search for number plates is for example if you are about to search a private plate with 2 initials go a step further and search using all your 3 initials, this way will get you that perfect plate you want.
You can also search our monthly offers that are selected to give a great selection of value for money number plates that can be viewed for immediate sale. Our huge database of number plates are updated regularly so you will searching for all known available number plates, however if for some reason there is a specific number plate that is not showing on our website please let us know and we will be happy to advise if we can track it down for you.
A Guide to the Different Formats of Number Plates Available
Current Style Number Plates
The current style of number plates was first introduced by the DVLA in 2001. They are very easily recognised, and take the following format:
Letter – Letter – Number –Number – Letter – Letter – Letter
This is a very popular option for a number plate, especially because there are many different options to make a message or a word that means something to you.
There are literally millions of possibilities when choosing the current style number plate however the letters I, Q and Z are not available to use. But do not worry the two-letter two number three letter format leaves plenty of room for creativity.
Suffix Style Number Plates
The suffix style number plates originally existed between 1963 and 1982. They follow this structure:
Letter – Letter – Letter – Number (between 1-3 digits) – Letter
The suffix style of number plates are very popular because they can be used to display personalised details like a name or even a set of 3 initials like ‘JON 17G‘ or ‘PAE 22E‘.
These style of number plates are a simple number plate style that is uncomplicated and more obvious what it is displaying and because has not been produced since 1982 people will be aware it is a private plate.
Prefix Style Number Plates
The prefix style number plates were used between 1983 and 2001 and replaced the suffix style. They follow the structure of having 3 letters at the end.
Letter – Number (between 1-3 digits) – Letter – Letter – Letter
Like the suffix style the pre fix number plates can be used to personalise a plate in the same way. The most popular feature of this style number plates is that the last 3 letters are often use for initials.
There are lots of other ways these number plates can be used like years of birth, the date of the month you were born or even your age.
An example of this style of number plate that can display someones initials is ‘G12 AJH‘ for Andrew John Harris. Because this style of number plate has not been produced for a long time will make people realise it is a personalised number plate.
Classic Dateless Number Plates
Dateless number plates were the first style of number plate used from 1903 through to the suffix plates that started in 1963. The first registration of A1 is a valuable example of a dateless number plate that shows no year within its details and so no reference to the year it was issued.As well as being old the value of these number plates is that they can be assigned to any newer cars because there is no reference to its age making them an instant personalised number plate.
With their no format style means these number plates can be used to display many personal things like names, words and it is well known having a number plate that starts with a letter A and then numbers is going to be a very valuable number plate because it is so unique.
Northern Ireland Number Plates
TNorthern Irish number plates are dateless plates that can be legally transferred to vehicles in all parts of the UK. Northern Irish plates have a three-letter prefix, which is a way of recognising what region the plate plate was issued. This is followed by a number of 1-4 digits. Examples of Irish number plates are like these, ‘ABZ 5678’ and ‘FIL 5278’.Car owners wanting to hide the age of their vehicle and do not want to spend thousands of pounds on their personalised number plate often opt for Irish number plates because they do both of these things.
We sell private number plates and buy your private registrations
Private Number Plates at Special Prices
Each month, we feature private number plates for sale at reduced rates. Whether you want to add a personal touch or invest in a collectible plate, these bargains are worth exploring.
Trusted by Drivers Across the UK
At MOTOREG, buying or selling private number plates is simple, safe, and reliable. With over 120,000 plates for sale and a DVLA-recognised team guiding you every step, you can find the perfect plate or reach buyers with confidence.
Clear prices, fast search, and expert support make the process smooth from start to finish.
Explore our collection of private number plates for sale and see why thousands of drivers across the UK trust MOTOREG for safe and simple number plate sales.
Buyers FAQs
Can I buy a private number plate as a gift?
Yes, personal and cherished number plates make memorable gifts. You can buy a plate for someone else, and we’ll help with the DVLA paperwork so the registration is assigned to their vehicle when they’re ready.
Do private number plates keep their value?
Many do. Short, catchy, or dateless number plates often increase in value over time. If you choose wisely, your private registration can be both a personal statement and a long-term investment.
How long does it take to get my new number plate?
Transfers are usually completed within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on DVLA processing times. We handle the admin, keep you informed, and make sure the process runs smoothly from purchase to display on your vehicle.
Sellers FAQs
Can I sell my private number plate if it's not on a vehicle?
Yes. You can sell a plate that’s on a retention certificate. This means the number plate is stored with the DVLA and ready to be assigned to another vehicle once a buyer is found.
Will MOTOREG advertise my number plate for me?
Absolutely. Once you list your plate with us, it becomes visible to thousands of buyers searching for number plates for sale every month. Our platform is like a link between genuine buyers and sellers.
Are there fees when I sell my number plate?
We believe in clear, transparent pricing. Any fees are explained before you list your plate, so you know exactly what to expect. That way, you only pay for a service that helps you sell faster and securely.
Get a FREE Private Plate Valuation
We buy cherished number plates. Discover your personalised registration’s current market value with our up-to-date valuation service.
