Reg Transfers UK: How to Transfer a Number Plate Step by Step (2026)

Reg transfers — transferring a private registration number from one vehicle to another — are one of the most common DVLA transactions. Whether you are moving your private plate to a new car or buying a registration from someone else, this guide walks you through the complete process.

Two Types of Reg Transfer

There are two scenarios for transferring a number plate in the UK:

1. Direct transfer — moving a plate directly from one vehicle to another (both vehicles must be registered in the UK)
2. Retention then assignment — retaining the plate on a V778 first, then assigning it to a vehicle later. This is the route when you are selling the donor vehicle before you have a receiving vehicle.

Direct Transfer: Step by Step

1. Go to gov.uk/transfer-number-plate
2. Provide the V5Cs for both the donor vehicle (currently carrying the plate) and the receiving vehicle
3. Both vehicles must be currently taxed and have a valid MOT (or be exempt)
4. Pay the £80 transfer fee
5. DVLA processes the transfer and issues updated V5Cs for both vehicles (allow 2–4 weeks)
6. Order new physical plates for the receiving vehicle from a DVLA-registered supplier
7. The donor vehicle reverts to its original age-related registration

Retention Route: Step by Step

1. Retain the registration using your V5C — go to gov.uk/retain-number-plate
2. Pay the £80 retention fee — receive a V778 Retention Document
3. Sell or transfer the donor vehicle — it returns to its original registration
4. When you have your new vehicle, assign the V778 via gov.uk/assign-number-plate
5. Pay the £80 assignment fee — receive updated V5C for receiving vehicle
6. Order physical plates

Reg Transfer Requirements

Requirement	Direct Transfer	Retention + Assignment
Donor vehicle taxed + MOT	✅ Required	✅ Required at retention
Receiving vehicle taxed + MOT	✅ Required	✅ Required at assignment
DVLA fee	£80 (transfer)	£80 retention + £80 assignment
V5C for donor vehicle	✅ Required	✅ Required
V5C for receiving vehicle	✅ Required	✅ Required (at assignment)

Getting Physical Plates After a Transfer

Once the transfer is complete and you have the updated V5C, order your physical plates at Car Plates Pro. Upload your new V5C as proof of entitlement. Choose from standard from £6.99, 3D Gel from £9.99, or 4D Gel from £13.99. Same-day dispatch before 2PM, next working day delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a reg transfer take?

DVLA processes online transfers within 2–4 weeks. Updated V5Cs arrive by post. Physical plates from Car Plates Pro arrive next working day after ordering.

Can I transfer a reg to a vehicle I just bought?

Yes, provided the receiving vehicle is registered in your name (you are the V5C keeper), is taxed, and has a valid MOT (or is exempt).

What happens to the donor vehicle’s plates?

The donor vehicle reverts to its original age-related registration or an alternative plate assigned by DVLA. You must display this new registration immediately — the old plates cannot remain.

Can I transfer a plate between vehicles in different names?

The direct transfer requires both vehicles to be in the same name, or involves both keepers agreeing to the transfer via DVLA. For cross-owner transfers, the retention route (V778) is typically more straightforward.

Related Reading

• DVLA Plate Retention: V778 Guide
• DVLA Private Reg: Complete Transfer Guide
• Personalised Number Plates UK
• Replacement Plates After a Transfer