How to Change Your Number Plates Back to Original
Looking to switch your vehicle’s number plates back to its original registration? Whether it's to prepare for resale or transfer your private plate to another vehicle, you’ve come to the right place. At Legal Show Plates, we’ve made this process straightforward and simple to ensure you get back to those classic plates with ease. Follow our step-by-step guide to learn how!
Why Change Your Number Plates Back to Original?
Sometimes, vehicle owners may want to revert to their original registration for several reasons:
- Preparing to sell the vehicle with its original identity.
- Transferring or retaining a cherished private registration for another car.
- Preferring the classic look of the original registration.
No matter your reason, the process involves just a bit of paperwork, a small fee, and some planning. Rest assured, it’s simpler than it sounds!
Step 1: Put Your Private Registration on Retention
Before switching back to your original number plate, you’ll need to place your private registration on retention. This allows you to save the cherished plate for future use or assign it to another vehicle.
Here’s how:
- Visit the DVLA’s Personalised Vehicle Registration service.
- Have your car’s logbook (V5C) ready—it’s essential for the application.
- Pay a retention fee of £80. The online service is available from 7 am to 7 pm.
- Once successful, you’ll instantly receive confirmation that the private plate is on retention.
Pro Tip: Ensure your private plate is in good standing. If the registration has any unresolved issues, such as fines or incomplete documentation, sort them out before proceeding.
Step 2: Assign Your Original Registration Back to the Vehicle
Once your private registration is on retention, the original registration will automatically be reassigned by the DVLA. Here’s what to expect:
- The DVLA will send you a new updated logbook (V5C) featuring your vehicle’s original registration. This process typically takes up to two weeks.
- Keep an eye on the mail—once the V5C arrives, you’re officially ready to get your plates made.
Step 3: Order New Number Plates
Now that your original registration has been reinstated, it’s time to order your new plates. This is where Legal Show Plates steps in—we provide premium quality number plates that are both aesthetic and fully compliant with UK regulations.
Why Choose Legal Show Plates?
- Variety of Styles: We offer a wide selection of plate designs, including 3D number plates, 3D gel number plates, 4D number plates, 4D gel number plates, and even 5D gel number plates (which feature bold 5mm layers). Whatever your preferred style, we’ve got you covered!
- Superior Quality: All our plates are crafted using durable, premium materials that not only look stunning but also last much longer.
- Competitive Pricing: Get high-end, affordable number plates without breaking the bank.
- Hassle-Free Process: Our easy-to-use number plate maker lets you design and customise your plates in minutes. Simply select your style, add your preferences, and place your order.
Start Designing Your Plate Today!
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Step 4: Attach Your New Plates
Now for the final step—installing your new plates. If you've never done this before, don’t worry! Here's how:
- Remove the old plates carefully, ensuring not to damage the surrounding paintwork.
- Clean the surface area to remove any dust and debris for a secure fit.
- Use either screws or adhesive pads depending on your preference (both methods ensure a professional finish while complying with UK laws).
Need more help? Check out our FAQ page for step-by-step guidance on plate installation.
Why Invest in High-Quality Plates?
Your number plates are more than a legal requirement—they’re part of your vehicle’s identity and style. At Legal Show Plates, we tap into the latest technology to ensure every plate we create is compliant, stylish, and built to last. Whether it’s a sleek 3D number plate for a modern look, or a bold, eye-catching 4D gel number plate, your vehicle will stand out for all the right reasons.
Plus, by designing your plates via our user-friendly plate maker, you retain full creative control. From font styles and borders to colours and finishes, crafting a unique plate has never been easier.
Choose Legal Show Plates for Your Original Plates
Changing your plates back to their original registration doesn’t have to be complicated. With our expert guide, premium-quality plate options, and easy customisation tools, you can make the switch without any stress.
Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a customisation lover, or simply looking for a cost-effective way to enhance your vehicle’s appeal, we’re here to support your needs.
The process is simple:
- Retain your private plate.
- Reassign the original registration.
- Use our number plate maker to craft the perfect plates.
- Attach them, and you’re all set!
Start Your Journey Back to Original Plates Today
At Legal Show Plates, we make it our mission to simplify every aspect of number plate customisation and legal compliance. Whether it’s a polished 3D number plate or a bold 4D gel number plate, we’re confident we have exactly what you’re looking for.
Take the first step today—explore our diverse range of plates or use our custom plate maker to design something that reflects your style while meeting all legal standards.