Prefix Registrations
Prefix Number Plates for Sale
Issued from 1983 to 2001, prefix plates carry a single year letter at the front.
Plates from £99 — search thousands of prefix plates available today.
What are prefix number plates?
Prefix registrations were used between 1983 and 2001. They follow the format of one letter, one to three numbers, then three letters — for example, A123 ABC. The first letter indicates the year the vehicle was registered.
Because the year is a single letter at the front, prefix plates are popular for personalisation. Many spell out names, initials or words and are significantly cheaper than dateless plates of a similar character length.
Browse All Prefix PlatesYear letter at the front. R = 1997.
Why choose a prefix plate?
Great for Personalisation
With up to seven characters, prefix plates offer plenty of room to spell out names, initials and meaningful combinations.
Affordable Entry Point
Prefix plates are one of the most affordable private registration styles, making them a great starting point for first-time buyers.
Hides Newer Age
Placing a prefix plate on a newer vehicle makes it appear older than it is. Useful for keeping your car's value private.
How does a prefix plate transfer work?
Prefix plates have a year-letter eligibility rule — your vehicle must be registered from that year or later.
Check the Year Letter
The first letter identifies the year — for example, R = 1997, Y = 2001. Your vehicle must be registered from that year onward. We confirm eligibility before you pay.
We Handle the Paperwork
Once eligibility is confirmed, we manage all DVLA documentation and transfer the plate to your vehicle. Online transfers often complete the same day.
Display Your Plate
The year letter at the front becomes part of your plate's identity. No longer issued by the DVLA, making good combinations increasingly rare over time.
Prefix plate price guide
Price depends on the combination, year letter, and how clearly it spells a name or word.
Entry Level
Common names and initials across later year letters (P, R, S, T, V, W, X, Y). Ideal for first-time buyers.
Mid Range
Shorter combinations, earlier year letters, desirable words. Good investment potential as supply is fixed.
Premium
Very short combinations, early year letters (A–H), memorable words and initials. Highly sought after.
All prices include the £80 DVLA transfer fee. No hidden extras.
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Search thousands of prefix registrations available now.
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