How do I retain my numberplate?

When a numberplate is on a vehicle it can be put onto retention and thus held on certificate for one year. If within that year you do not assign the number plate to a car you can extend your entitlement by applying to the DVLA.

To retain your numberplate you will need to use form V778/1.- this can be obtained either from your local DVLA Office or by clicking here to print one from the DVLA website.

When applying to retain a numberplate you will need the V5 log book for the "donor vehicle", the current MOT for the vehicle and a photocopy of the tax disc.

V5
MOT
Tax disc photocopy

The DVLA will process your application - they may request to view the donor vehicle at a DVLA centre - this is a random process by which the DVLA check the identity of your vehicle.

If the vehicle does not have a valid MOT or take you will be required to transport it to the centre at your own cost. Likewise if your application is unsuccessful you will not be refunded or compensated.

Will I get a new numberplate for the donor car?

Yes- if the application is successful the DVLA will assign a new numberplate to your donor vehicle- this numberplate will be marked as non-transferrable.

What happens if my application is successful?

The DVLA will send you a V778 retention document for the numberplate. you will also receive a new V5 logbook and tax disc bearing the new non-transferrable numberplate which the DVLA have assigned.

The V778 will only be valid for 12 months- in this time you must assign the numberplate to a car or apply for an extension- failure to do this may mean you lose the numberplate.

See also..

Numberplate retention scheme