What Documents Are Needed to Buy Number Plates?

To buy a road-use number plate from a registered UK supplier, you need evidence of two things: who you are and your entitlement to use the registration. Preparing the right documents before ordering helps prevent delays.

Why are documents required?

Registered number-plate suppliers have a duty to confirm the purchaser’s identity and connection to the registration. GOV.UK says the supplier needs to see original documents that prove your name and address and show that you are allowed to use the registration number.

Plateology’s current submission options are explained on our Valid Documents page and during the order process. Follow those instructions for presenting or submitting your evidence.

Proof of identity

A valid driving licence can confirm both your name and address. GOV.UK also lists the following as acceptable evidence of name and address:

  • a utility, Council Tax or rates bill from the last six months
  • a bank or building-society statement from the last six months
  • a national identity card

Some documents confirm your name only, including a passport, bank debit or credit card, police warrant card or armed-forces identity card. If your chosen document does not show your address, you will also need suitable address evidence.

Proof that you can use the registration

You will also need an entitlement document connected to the registration. Common examples include:

  • the vehicle registration certificate (V5C or V5CNI)
  • the green new-keeper slip from the V5C or V5CNI
  • a certificate of entitlement (V750 or V750NI)
  • a retention document (V778)
  • a vehicle-tax or SORN renewal reminder (V11 or V11NI)
  • a stamped DVLA number-plate authorisation certificate (V948)
  • an electronic number-plate authorisation certificate (eV948 or eV948/2)
  • an appropriate fleet or lease-company authorisation letter

The complete current list is available on the official GOV.UK guide to getting number plates made up.

What if the vehicle has just been bought?

The green new-keeper slip is commonly used while the full V5C is being processed, provided the registration and keeper details match the order. If you have bought or retained a personalised registration, use the relevant V750, V778 or other DVLA authorisation document.

How to avoid an order delay

  • Use documents that are valid, complete and readable.
  • Check the name, address, registration and reference numbers carefully.
  • Make sure recent bills or statements fall within the permitted six-month period.
  • Do not crop away corners, document references or other relevant details when following an upload process.
  • Enter the registration exactly as assigned; do not alter the spacing for road use.

Ready to order?

Review our number-plate order process, then choose from standard plates, 3D gel plates, 4D plates or motorcycle plates.

This guide is general information. Accepted evidence and official guidance can change, so check the latest GOV.UK and Plateology instructions before ordering.

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