With the option of choosing names, initials, company names and hobbies as part of your number plates, it is not surprising that obtaining a private registration is growing more popular.

Nowadays, the easiest way to buy a unique plate registration is via one of the many websites that sell car number plates. The better websites have search engines which allow you to try and find that perfect plate. This can be a bit of a tricky process, and often the search engine on a website will guide you in your search, by only allowing you to search within certain parameters, which is usually well explained. The only problem with searching for number plates on websites is that you may have to visit many different sellers to find your plate, because their inventories tend not to overlap. The DVLA Personalised Registrations website has a searchable database for unused plates, and the fixed purchase fee of £250 can be easily afforded.

The most interesting number plates for sale can often appear in classifieds, so look through the motoring sections of newspapers, or browse through the back pages of a car magazine. Be aware however, that these plates tend to be rather expensive, but if you want something really rare, this could be a great place to look.

Finally, the DVLA holds regular auctions whenever it releases a new range of plates. For example, in December 2009, the DVLA held an auction for the new 10-series plates that will start appearing on cars in March 2010. The benefit of buying plates at an auction is that you’re the first owner, and the value of the plate is likely to increase. It may also be your only chance to buy that exceptional plate before someone else grabs it.