What documents do you need for road-legal number plates?
To buy road-legal plates in the UK you must show two things: who you are, and that you're entitled to the registration. Here is exactly which documents count for each.
UK law requires registered number plate suppliers to check documents before making road-legal plates. This stops plates being made for vehicles the buyer has no connection to. There are two things you need to evidence: proof of identity and proof of entitlement to the registration number. Our documents required page summarises this, and the lists below explain what's accepted.
Proof of identity
You need to confirm who you are with a current, official document. Commonly accepted forms of identity include:
- A driving licence (photocard or paper).
- A passport, in your name.
- A national identity card, or other official photographic ID.
Proof of entitlement
You also need to show you are entitled to display the registration. This is usually a vehicle registration document. Accepted forms include:
- The V5C registration certificate (logbook).
- The V5C/2 new keeper supplement (new keeper slip).
- A certificate of entitlement (V750) or retention document (V778) for a private registration.
If you are putting a private registration onto a vehicle, the V750 or V778 is the document that proves your entitlement to that mark. We explain both in detail in what is a V750 or V778?
How the check works when you order
When you build your plate and choose a road-legal option, you'll be asked to supply your identity and entitlement documents. We verify them before manufacturing so your finished plates are fully compliant and ready to fit.
Common questions
Can I use the new keeper slip instead of the full logbook?
Yes. The V5C/2 new keeper supplement is accepted as proof of entitlement, which is helpful when you have just bought a vehicle and the full V5C hasn't arrived yet.
What if the registration is a private plate?
Then your proof of entitlement is the certificate of entitlement (V750) or the retention document (V778) that shows you hold the rights to that registration.
Does the name need to match on both documents?
Generally yes — the identity document and the entitlement document should be in the same name. If they differ, get in touch before ordering so we can advise.
Got your documents ready?
Start your order, upload your proof of identity and entitlement, and we'll make your road-legal plates with free UK delivery.