Buying a Used Car? Check the Number Plates

When you're looking at a used car, the number plates are easy to overlook. But they can tell you a lot, and catching a problem early can save you a headache later.

What to check before you buy

• Do the plates match the V5C? The registration on the plates must match the logbook exactly.
• Do they match the car? Check the registration on GOV.UK's free vehicle enquiry service to confirm the make, colour and age.
• Are they legal? Look for the supplier's name and postcode and the BS AU 145e mark on newer plates.
• Do the front and back match? Different styles or suppliers aren't always a problem, but they're worth asking about.

Red flags

• Plates that look brand new on an older car, with no explanation
• Missing supplier markings
• Illegal fonts or spacing, which suggests the car may not have been looked after carefully
• A registration that doesn't match the car's details online

After you buy

You'll get the V5C/2 new keeper supplement while the DVLA sends you a new logbook. You can use it to order new plates straight away. See which documents are accepted.

Lots of people treat themselves to a fresh set to make a used car feel new. A set of 4D plates is one of the simplest ways to transform how a car looks. Start here.