Personalised plates are becoming very fashionable in the UK, and more and more people are seeking them out as ways to add that ‘special something’ to the vehicle in which they spend so much of their time.  The number you seek must, of course, be unregistered already, but there are plenty of websites that will allow you to search for a number, including DVLA’s own website.

The website at www.newreg.co.uk will allow you to search by first name, surname, as well as plates beginning with ‘Miss’ (MI55) or ‘Ms’ (M5).  If the plate you seek is not found, you’ll know immediately.  Most sites, including www.PremierPlates.co.uk, offer suggestions for other letter and number combinations if your first choice has already been taken.  Keep in mind that the new numbering scheme in effect since 2001 offers more possibilities, since there are more numbers and letters on the new plates.

Websites such as www.regtransfers.co.uk and www.carreg.co.uk also offer to handle the registration of your new plates as well – although keep in mind the new identification procedures still need to be followed.  However it’s often more convenient to have the same company issuing your plates take care of the registration at the same time.  They’ll handle the paperwork expeditiously and you’ll have your personalised number plates in a much shorter time, allowing you to place it on your vehicle and start driving legally.

Using the websites will allow you to search for the number plate you desire, avoid disappointment, and let a company with knowledge of the process take care of the DVLA proceedings.