How to Transfer or Retain a Private Number Plate Before Scrapping Your Car

10th Oct, 2025

When the time comes to part with your old car, there’s one thing you might not want to let go of: that private number plate you’ve grown attached to. Whether it’s sentimental or a smart investment, you don’t need to lose it in the scrapping process. Handling your Car Plate Transfer properly ensures your cherished registration stays with you, not the scrapyard.

At Scrap Car Network, we’ve seen plenty of people panic when they realise too late that their plate’s still on the car. The truth is, transferring or retaining your registration isn’t difficult; it just takes the right steps, a bit of patience, and a solid understanding of the DVLA process. This Plate Transfer Guide walks you through exactly how to do it.

Why Your Private Plate Deserves Proper Care

For many drivers, a private number plate is more than decoration; it’s part of their identity. It might mark a milestone, carry initials, or even represent a business name. Whatever the reason, it holds real-world value.

Before scrapping your car, you have two straightforward choices:

• Transfer your plate to another vehicle.

• Retain your plate for later use.

Both methods keep your registration safe and in your control. The key is to start early and follow the process carefully.

Getting Started: What You’ll Need

Before you dive into the paperwork, make sure your documents are ready. Having everything to hand makes the Car Plate Transfer go much smoother.

You’ll need:

• V5C logbook (Vehicle Registration Certificate)

• MOT certificate (if the car’s more than three years old)

• Proof of ID and address (DVLA may ask for this)

• DVLA online account access

Double-check that all details match; even a small spelling or address error can delay your application. If your logbook or MOT details are outdated, sort them first before applying.

How to Transfer a Private Number Plate

If you already have another vehicle ready to take on your cherished registration, a Car Plate Transfer is the best route. Think of it like swapping a favourite part from one car to another, straightforward when you’ve got the right tools.

Step 1: Apply via the DVLA

Visit the DVLA transfer service or complete form V317 by post. You’ll need:

• V5C documents for both vehicles

• The £80 transfer fee

Step 2: Wait for Confirmation

The DVLA usually processes applications within 2–4 weeks. Once approved, they’ll send you:

• A new logbook (V5C) for the vehicle receiving the private plate

• A replacement registration for the car being scrapped

Step 3: Update Insurance and Records

Once the transfer is confirmed, remember to:

• Update your insurance and road tax details.

• Check your MOT record to show the correct registration.

If you’ve arranged scrappage through Scrap Car Network, we’ll time your collection so the paperwork lines up perfectly, no delays, no stress.

How to Retain a Private Number Plate

If you’re not sure what vehicle you’ll be driving next, retaining your plate is a smart move. It keeps your registration safe with the DVLA until you’re ready to assign it again.

It’s a bit like putting your best spanner in a drawer, not in use right now, but too valuable to lose.

Step 1: Apply for Retention

Head to the DVLA’s online service or use form V317 by post. You’ll need:

• The car’s V5C logbook

• The £80 retention fee

Step 2: Get Your Retention Certificate

You’ll receive a V778 Retention Certificate, valid for ten years and renewable. Keep it somewhere safe (preferably not the glovebox of the car being scrapped).

Step 3: Update Your Scrapping Plans

Once the DVLA confirms removal, they’ll assign your old vehicle a new standard registration. Only then can you legally scrap it. If you’d like a hand syncing your transfer with your car collection, simply get in touch with us and we’ll help you organise the timing.

When to Start the Process

Don’t leave your Car Plate Transfer until the last minute. The DVLA process takes time, and scrapping too early can mean losing your plate for good.

Here’s a solid timeline to follow:

• Start at least two weeks before your planned scrap date.

• Begin before cancelling insurance or tax.

• Only book the final collection once your new documents arrive.

If you’re using Scrap Car Network, our team can help you coordinate everything, from confirming the transfer to arranging collection through our scrap car collection service.

Mistakes to Avoid (Car Scrap Cautions)

A missed form or early scrapbooking can quickly turn an easy task into a headache. Here are some of the most common Car Scrap Cautions:

• Scrapping your car before removing the private plate

• Missing or inaccurate V5C logbook details

• Trying to sell the car while a transfer is pending

• Forgetting to tell your insurance provider about the change

You can read more about avoiding these errors in our car scrapping mistakes guide.

Real Example: Harry’s Business Plate

Harry owned a small plumbing business with the registration PLU88Y. It wasn’t just a plate; it was part of his brand. When his old van was due for scrap, he almost let the plate go with it.

Luckily, he called Scrap Car Network first. We guided him through the Plate Transfer Guide, helped him retain the plate until his new van arrived, and got everything sorted within a week. His business never missed a beat, proof that a bit of planning can make all the difference.

How Scrap Car Network Helps

At Scrap Car Network, we’re not just about towing cars away. We help drivers every day with:

• Preparing DVLA paperwork for plate transfers or retention

• Coordinating collection dates with transfer confirmations

• Ensuring every vehicle is handled through Authorised Treatment Facilities (ATFs)

• Providing friendly, honest support from start to finish

If you’re checking what your old car might be worth, take a look at our scrap car prices guide. And if it’s a van you’re retiring, our scrap my van service can help with that too.

Final Thoughts: Keep What Matters

Cars come and go, but a private number plate can carry on. Whether it’s tied to your name, your work, or a fond memory, it’s worth protecting. A simple Car Plate Transfer or retention keeps your registration secure and ready for its next chapter.

If you’d like help with timing, paperwork, or coordination, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll make sure your plate stays in your hands, and your scrapping process runs like clockwork.