It’s that time of year again! As the automotive industry gears up for the introduction of the new '25' registration plates on 1st March 2025, many vehicle owners and enthusiasts have questions about what this means for them. This comprehensive guide addresses the most common queries related to the '25' plates in the UK, including how you can personalise your number plate and if you are allowed to add a ‘25’ number plate onto your existing car.
What Are '25' Registration Plates?
In the UK, vehicle registration plates follow a specific format that indicates the time and location of a vehicle's registration. The '25' registration plates signify vehicles registered between 1st March 2025 and 31st August 2025. The format consists of two letters (representing the local registration office), followed by the number '25', and ending with three random letters. For example, a '25' plate might read 'AB25 XYZ'.
When Will '25' Plates Be Available?
The '25' plates will be available for all new vehicles registered from 1st March 2025 onwards. This biannual update in March and September allows for a clear indication of a vehicle's age and ensures a systematic registration process. Following the '25' plates, the '75' plates will be introduced on 1st September 2025, covering registrations until 28th February 2026.
Can I Purchase a '25' Plate for My Existing Vehicle?
Yes, you can purchase a '25' registration plate for an existing vehicle; however, UK regulations prohibit making a vehicle appear newer than it is. Therefore, you can only assign a '25' plate to a vehicle first registered on or after 1st March 2025. If your current vehicle was registered before this date, you cannot legally display a '25' plate on it.
How Do I Buy a '25' Registration Plate?
There are a few ways you can acquire a '25' registration plate, you can:
- Purchase through dealerships: when buying a brand-new vehicle around or after 1st March 2025, dealerships will automatically assign a '25' plate to your vehicle.
- Personalised plates: if you desire a customised '25' plate, you can purchase one through the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) or authorised private dealers. It's advisable to register your interest early, as popular combinations may sell quickly.
- Retention certificates: if you don't have a qualifying vehicle yet but want to secure a specific '25' plate, you can buy the plate and hold it on a retention certificate. This allows you to assign the plate to a suitable vehicle at a later date.
Are There Restrictions on '25' Plate Combinations?
Yes, the DVLA enforces regulations to prevent offensive or inappropriate registration combinations. Each year, certain combinations are banned to ensure they do not cause offence or embarrassment. For the '25' series, combinations that could be interpreted as offensive have been withheld.
How Do '25' Plates Affect Vehicle Value?
The registration plate can influence a vehicle's resale value. Vehicles with newer plates, such as the '25' series, often retain higher values due to their perceived modernity. Additionally, personalised or unique plates can add a premium to the vehicle's worth, especially if they feature desirable letter and number combinations.
What Should I Consider When Choosing a '25' Plate?
When selecting a '25' registration plate, consider the following:
- Personal significance: choose combinations that reflect your name, initials, or interests.
- Investment potential: some plates appreciate over time, especially those with unique or rare combinations.
- Legality: ensure the plate adheres to DVLA regulations regarding format and content.
- Compatibility: you can’t assign a '25' plate to a vehicle registered before 1st March 2025.
How Do I Transfer a '25' Plate to Another Vehicle?
Transferring a '25' plate involves:
- Application: complete the DVLA's application to transfer or retain a vehicle registration number.
- Fees: pay the applicable fee for the transfer process.
- Documentation: provide necessary documents, including the V5C registration certificates for both vehicles involved.
The DVLA will process the application and, upon approval, assign the plate to the new vehicle.
What Happens to My Old Registration Number?
When you assign a personalised '25' plate to your vehicle, the original registration number is typically retained by the DVLA. If you wish to keep the original number (for example, to reassign it later), you must apply to retain it before transferring the new plate.
Are There Additional Costs Associated with '25' Plates?
Beyond the purchase price of the '25' plate, there are some additional costs that you may need to consider:
- Transfer fees: fees for assigning or transferring the plate between vehicles.
- Retention fees: if you choose to hold a plate on a retention certificate, there may be associated costs.
- Manufacturing costs: expenses for producing the physical plates, especially if opting for customised designs.
How Can I Ensure My '25' Plate Is Road Legal?
To ensure your '25' plate complies with UK regulations:
- Format: adhere to the standard format of letters and numbers.
- Font and spacing: use the prescribed font type and size, with correct spacing.
- Material and reflectivity: ensure plates are made from reflective material and display the registration clearly.
Buy your new ‘25’ car with Swansway today
If you’re looking to invest in a new car as of March this year, take a look at our huge range of new cars that offer a range of features and benefits and can take you the extra mile. If you’re worried about cost, we have a range of finance options and new car offers to get you started. If you’re unsure what you're looking for or would like more information about one of the vehicles you see on our website, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our team and we’d be happy to help you.