Reg Swapping Question

[2vettes]

I've got a reg number on my C5 I want to keep and put on a C8 when I receive it, then sell the C5.
I read on the Government web site that you can transfer private numbers via various forms but I'm not sure if my number is classified as 'private'. What does that actually mean? My existing number came with the C5 as sold to me used.
Is is possible to do a complete swap over from the C5 to the C8 and vice-versa and does that involve 2 completely separate procedures with DVLA or can it be done as one?

 

[Rich]

For around £80 you apply onine to the DVLA to put the C5 reg on retention. They will give you a retention certificate and tell you what plates then go on the C5 (usualy the original reg). They will send you a new log book for the C5 and you can then sell it. Best to do this before you find a buyer.

Once you have the new log book for the C8, you can put the C5 reg on it using the retention certificate. All done online and covered by the one fee.

 

[2vettes]

Hi Rich,
Thanks for your help. So I imagine the retention certificate is what people refer to as a private number.
Yes, I guessed all this should be completed before offering the C5 for sale. That's good advice.
Regards,
Alex

 

[Mr. Cricket]

Hi Rich,
Thanks for your help. So I imagine the retention certificate is what people refer to as a private number.
Yes, I guessed all this should be completed before offering the C5 for sale. That's good advice.
Regards,
Alex

The retention certificate is conformation you own that particular cherished number. If you had you C8 already you could then within a minute register your cherished plate on the C8 as Rich says without further cost. Check though as retention certs used to be valid for 12 months only. Not sure that is still the case but check or lose it.

It's a simple process which I just did again last week.

Private (personalised) number plates

Buy a private (personalised) number plate, assign it or transfer it to a vehicle - renew or update your entitlement certificate.

www.gov.uk

 

[2vettes]

retention certs used to be valid for 12 months only

It would seem the certificates can be held for 10 years and can then be renewed.
From the .gov web site:

 

[2vettes]

My nice C8 dealer said he'd handle the whole process for me before I collect.