What Documents Do You Need to Buy Number Plates?
7 October 2026 · 2 min read
When you buy road-legal number plates in the UK, the supplier has to check two things: that you're entitled to the registration, and that you are who you say you are. It's the law for every DVLA registered number plate supplier, and it helps stop cloned plates.
1. Proof you're entitled to the registration
You'll need one of these, showing the registration you want on your plates:
- V5C vehicle registration certificate (the logbook)
- V5C/2 new keeper supplement, if you've just bought the car
- V750 certificate of entitlement, or V778 retention document, for a private plate
- A letter of authorisation from a fleet, lease or hire company that quotes the document reference number, for company and leased cars
2. Photo ID
You'll also need a form of ID, such as:
- A photocard driving licence
- A passport
- A national identity card
A clear photo from your phone is perfect. Make sure every corner is in the picture and nothing is blurry.
How it works at PlatedUp
You can upload your documents at checkout, or choose to send them later. If you send them later, we'll email you a link, and you can upload them any time from our upload documents page using your order number.
One important thing: we can't start making road-legal plates until we have your documents. If they're missing, your order will be delayed. Send them as soon as you can and we'll get straight to work.
Do show plates need documents?
No. Show plates aren't road legal, so no documents are needed, but they must not be used on public roads.
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