Do You Need to Show ID to Buy Number Plates in the UK?

Yes, you are legally required to show proof of identity and proof of entitlement to the registration before a number plate supplier can make your plates. This is not a policy choice, it is a legal requirement under the Road Vehicles (Display of Registration Marks) Regulations 2001. This guide explains exactly what you need, why the law exists, and what happens if a supplier skips this step.

Why do you need ID to buy number plates?

Number plate fraud is a serious problem in the UK. Criminals use false plates to disguise stolen vehicles, evade speed cameras, and avoid detection. The ID verification requirement ensures that only people who are entitled to display a specific registration can have plates made for it.

Every DVLA-registered number plate supplier is legally required to verify identity before manufacturing any plate. If a supplier offers to make plates without asking for ID, they are operating illegally and the plates they supply will not be legally manufactured.

What ID do you need to buy number plates?

You need two things: proof of your identity, and proof that you are entitled to display the registration.

Proof of identity (one of the following):

• Driving licence (photocard)
• Passport
• Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement, dated within three months)

Proof of entitlement to the registration (one of the following):

• Vehicle registration document (V5C logbook)
• New keeper supplement (V5C/2) if you have recently bought the vehicle
• Certificate of entitlement (V750) for a personalised registration
• Retention document (V778) if the registration is on a retention certificate

Can I order number plates online without ID?

No, but the process is simpler than visiting a shop. Reputable online suppliers collect the required information digitally at checkout. You will be asked to confirm your name, address, and registration details, and confirm you are the registered keeper or have entitlement to display the registration. The V5C reference number is commonly used for verification.

What if I just bought the car and the V5C has not arrived yet?

You can use the new keeper supplement (the yellow V5C/2 slip) as proof of entitlement until your full V5C arrives in your name. Keep the slip safe in the meantime.

What if a supplier does not ask for ID?

If a supplier makes plates without verifying your identity and entitlement, they are breaking the law. The plates produced will not have been manufactured in compliance with the regulations and will not carry a valid RNPS code. Always buy from a DVLA-registered supplier. See our guide on how to spot a non-compliant number plate supplier.

Does the ID rule apply to show plates?

Show plates are not covered by the same regulations because they are not for road use. However, show plates must never be fitted to a vehicle driven on public roads. Any plate on a road-driven vehicle must have been made by a DVLA-registered supplier with full ID verification completed.

Summary

Showing ID is a legal requirement when buying road-legal number plates in the UK. You need proof of identity and proof of entitlement to the registration. Car Plates Pro is DVLA-registered and handles all verification at checkout. Order your plates here from £6.99, same-day dispatch on orders before 2PM, next working day delivery.