Reg Transfers

Start Your Reg Transfer Today – Just a Few Simple Steps

We take care of the full DVLA registration process, including:

• Reg transfers between two vehicles
• Retaining your private plate for future use
• Assigning a private plate to a new car
• Supplying all required DVLA documentation

​With RegHunters, your reg transfer is in safe hands from start to finish.
 

What are Reg Transfers?

A reg transfer is the official process of moving a private number plate from one vehicle to another or placing it on a retention document for future use. Whether you're upgrading your car, selling your private plate, or simply want to keep your registration number safe until you're ready to assign it to a new vehicle, a reg transfer ensures your plate is legally protected and properly reassigned through the DVLA.

In simple terms, you're transferring a vehicle registration number (sometimes called a registration mark) from one car to another. You might do this when:

• You’ve sold your car but want to keep your private number
• You’ve bought a new car and want your private plate assigned to it
• You want to legally transfer your personalised number plate to someone else
• You’re purchasing private number plates and want to use them later
   

A successful reg transfer ensures your private registration stays valid, and you receive the correct DVLA paperwork, usually a V5C logbook or V778 retention document. If the plate is being held for later, your retention reference number confirms ownership until you assign the plate to a different vehicle.

At RegHunters, we help customers navigate the entire process, from submitting the reference number to managing the transfer via the DVLA website or by post. Whether you're transferring a cherished number plate, a set of custom plates, or simply want to make sure your registration is secure, we’re here to offer expert guidance every step of the way.

Need to transfer a private plate now or save your perfect plate for a later date? We make it simple, fast, and fully compliant.

Transferring DVLA Personalised Registrations

Moving your DVLA personalised registration to a new car or storing it for later? Whether you’re updating your vehicle registration number, selling your car, or buying a private plate online, RegHunters makes the reg transfer process simple, secure, and fully DVLA-compliant.

You can transfer a private number plate from one vehicle to another or retain it using a V778 retention document. The DVLA website also allows online applications, but with so many registration details, document types, and rules to follow, it’s easy to miss something. That’s where we come in.

Here’s how we help you legally transfer your personalised number plate with confidence:

DVLA-Approved Process

We liaise directly with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, using your reference number, MOT certificate, and log book to complete the transfer quickly and correctly.

Assign to Another Vehicle

Whether it's a new vehicle, a different vehicle, or even one you’re buying from someone else, we’ll help you assign your registration mark to the right car without delays.

Retain Your Plate

Want to keep your private registration for a later date? We’ll help you move it to a retention document, keeping your private number plate safe and ready to assign when the time’s right.

Full Paperwork Support

From registration transfers to retention reference numbers, we complete all forms for you, ensuring your private registration plates are transferred legally and efficiently.
 

How Our Reg Transfers Service Works

Whether you’re placing your private plate on retention or assigning it to a new vehicle, our service is designed to be fast, clear, and completely hassle-free.

1. Provide Your Plate Details

Enter your current registration number and a few basic vehicle details securely online.

2. We Handle the Paperwork

Our experts manage the full DVLA reg transfer, from eligibility checks to form submissions, so you don’t have to.

3. Receive Your Confirmation

Once approved, we’ll issue your DVLA paperwork, either a new V5C logbook or a V778 retention certificate.

4. Assign to Your New Car (If Needed)

If you’re applying the plate to a different vehicle, we’ll help you assign it. You’ll be driving with your private plate in no time.
 

When to Begin a Reg Transfer

Timing matters. Here’s when it makes sense to start your reg transfer:

• Selling your car: Transfer your plate to a retention document before selling.
• Buying a new car: Assign your registration number right after your new car is registered.
• Not using the plate yet: Retain it on a V778 for up to 10 years.
• Switching vehicles: Move your private plate between eligible cars you own.

Not sure when to act? Our team is always on hand to help.
 

What You’ll Need for a Reg Transfer

Have these ready to keep things moving:

• V5C logbook for both donor and recipient vehicles
• MOT certificate (if your car is over 3 years old)
• V778 retention document (if already retained)
• Document reference number from your V5C or V778
• Vehicle details, such as make, model, and current registration number

Need help locating any of the above? Just ask, our team will walk you through every step.
 

Number Plate Transfers: Rules & Requirements

Before you transfer your private number plate to another vehicle or place it on a retention document, it’s important to understand the key rules that make your reg transfer eligible in the eyes of the DVLA. At RegHunters, we follow all official registration transfer guidelines to ensure your private plate is moved quickly, securely, and without issue.

Here’s what the DVLA requires for a successful number plate transfer:

The Vehicles Must Be Eligible

Both the current and receiving vehicles must be:

• Registered with the DVLA
• Available for inspection if requested
• Taxed or declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)
• Have a valid MOT certificate (if over 3 years old)

The Plate Must Follow Age Rules

You cannot use a registration number to make a vehicle appear newer than it is. For example, you can't put a 2022-style reg on a 2010 car - but you can transfer an older or dateless plate to any age vehicle.

Proper Documentation is Required

To complete the transfer, you’ll need:

• The V5C log book for both vehicles (or a V778 retention certificate if it’s in storage)
• The document reference number from your V5C or V778
• Full vehicle registration details for both cars

Only the Right Person Can Make the Transfer

You must be the registered keeper of the vehicle or have the right to act on behalf of the owner. If you're assigning the plate to someone else’s vehicle, they’ll need to give consent and provide supporting paperwork.

All Transfers Must Go Through the DVLA

Whether done online or by post, all registration transfers must be officially processed and approved by the DVLA. RegHunters manages this on your behalf to avoid any errors or delays.
 

Reg Transfers: Mistakes to Avoid

A reg transfer is a straightforward way to move your private number plate from one vehicle to another, or place it on a retention document for future use. But if you’re not careful, small mistakes can slow down the process or lead to DVLA rejections. Here’s how to avoid common errors when you transfer a private registration number:

1. Using the Wrong Reference Number

2. No MOT? No Transfer

Transferring private registration plates requires a valid MOT certificate - especially for vehicles over 3 years old. This is a standard DVLA check, even if you're not driving the car.

3. Trying to Make a Car Look Newer

The DVLA website won’t allow you to assign a registration mark that makes a vehicle appear newer than it is. Before transferring a private plate, check the age of your car and the year identifier on the private number.

4. Missing or Incomplete Vehicle Details

From your vehicle registration number to your retention reference number, make sure all registration details are correct and consistent across your documents. Inaccurate information delays number plate transfers.

5. Last-Minute Plate Removal

If you’re selling your car and haven’t yet removed your private plate, act fast. Once the vehicle is sold, you could lose the right to keep or legally transfer the registration. Apply for a retention document early to protect your private number online or offline.

6. Forgetting to Assign the Plate

If you’ve purchased a personalised number plate, don’t assume it’s assigned immediately. You must officially assign your registration number to the new vehicle, even if you own both. Our team can walk you through the registration transfer with expert guidance.
 

Why Choose RegHunters for Your Reg Transfer?

We make registration transfers simple, secure, and compliant. Here's what sets our reg transfer service apart:

• Complete Support: From filling in the V317 to checking document reference numbers
• Speed & Accuracy: We minimise delays with expert checks and prompt submissions
• DVLA-Approved: We work with DVLA directly to process reg transfers quickly and legally
• Peace of Mind: No chasing paperwork, no confusing steps, just a smooth, easy transfer

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FAQs About Reg Transfers

What do I need for a reg transfer?

You’ll need your vehicle registration number, document reference number, and possibly an MOT or test certificate, depending on your vehicle’s status.

How long does a reg transfer take?

Most transfers complete in a few working days. We submit your registration details to the DVLA promptly for a quick turnaround.

Is it safe to do a reg transfer online?

Yes. Our process is secure, DVLA-compliant, and fully managed by our expert team.