Are private number plates worth it?

Private number plates have been growing in popularity across the UK — but are they actually worth it? Whether you’re looking to personalise your vehicle, make a statement, or invest in something unique, this guide from RegNow breaks down everything you need to know.

What Are Private Number Plates?

Private number plates, also known as personalised registrations, are custom registration numbers that can replace your car’s standard plate. They can spell out names, initials, words, numbers or even clever phrases like FA57 CAR or M4 DGE.

Are Private Number Plates a Good Investment?

Some personalised plates appreciate in value over time — especially short, dateless, or name-based registrations. Plates like F1, 25 O, and 1 D have sold for hundreds of thousands of pounds. While not all plates guarantee a return, rare or in-demand plates can be a smart investment.

Tip: If you’re buying with investment in mind, focus on plates that are highly desirable, like common names (e.g. J4 MES) or universally appealing terms (e.g. LUX 1).

Top Reasons Why People Buy Private Plates

Personalisation: Show off your personality or brand your vehicle
Gift Ideas: A truly unique gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or milestones
Exclusivity: Own something one-of-a-kind that no one else can have
Privacy: Hide the age of your vehicle with a dateless plate
Investment: Potential long-term value if chosen wisely

How Much Do Private Number Plates Cost?

Prices vary greatly. Some plates start from under £200, while rare or premium combinations can exceed £100,000. At RegNow, we offer plates for every budget — from affordable custom plates to exclusive high-value options.

You’ll also need to factor in a £80 DVLA assignment fee when registering the plate to a vehicle.

Are There Any Downsides?

While private plates offer plenty of perks, it’s worth considering a few things:

Plates may not hold resale value unless they’re truly unique or desirable
Transferring plates requires some admin through the DVLA (which RegNow can handle for you!)
You must follow DVLA regulations on plate formatting and visibility

So… Are Private Plates Worth It?

In short — yes, they can be! Whether it’s for fun, style, business branding, or investment, private number plates offer long-term value and satisfaction for many UK drivers.

And with RegNow, the process is easy, affordable, and fully supported from start to finish.

Find Your Perfect Plate with RegNow

Ready to browse? At RegNow, we make it easy to search, buy, and assign a personalised number plate in just a few clicks. With thousands of plates available and expert customer support, your dream plate is just a search away.