Cherished Number Plates
Cherished number plates are personalised registrations without an age identifier, making them a popular choice for drivers who want something more distinctive than standard plates.
The term “cherished” is most commonly associated with dateless registrations, although there’s no official definition. It’s also often used more broadly to describe older number plates or combinations with personal significance, particularly those that have been kept, transferred, or passed down over time.
With access to over 70 million registrations and more than 40 years of experience, National Numbers makes it easy to search, secure and assign the perfect plate. Whether you're browsing for a unique gift or upgrading your vehicle with private number plates, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your style and budget.
Cherished Number Plate Formats
Cherished number plates come in several different formats, each reflecting a specific period in UK registration history. Understanding these formats can help you choose a plate that suits your style, budget and how you want your registration to read.
Why Choose a Cherished Number Plate?
Choosing a cherished number plate allows you to personalise your vehicle while selecting a registration that can stand the test of time.
Personal to You - Display something meaningful, whether that’s your name, initials, a nickname or even a business identity. With a wide range of cherished registrations available, it’s possible to find combinations that feel unique without needing an exact match.
Timeless Appeal - Many cherished number plates, particularly dateless formats, do not include an age identifier. This helps your vehicle maintain a more timeless and premium appearance.
Potential to Hold Value - Certain cherished reg plates, especially shorter or more recognisable combinations, are often in higher demand. While prices can vary, rare registrations have historically remained popular over time.
Stand Out on the Road - A personalised plate naturally attracts attention. Whether you prefer something subtle or more eye-catching, cherished car registrations offer a simple way to stand out.
Buying Support You Can Rely On
Buying a cherished number plate is straightforward with the right support. With over 40 years of experience and access to millions of registrations, National Numbers helps you secure the right plate with confidence.
Trusted Since 1981: As a recognised reseller of DVLA registrations, we’ve helped thousands of customers buy and assign cherished number plates. Our experience means you’re guided through every step, from search to transfer.
Simple Checkout and Clear Next Step: Once you’ve chosen your cherished reg number, checkout is quick and secure. You’ll receive clear confirmation and guidance on what happens next, so the process always feels straightforward.
0% Finance Available: 0% finance is available on many cherished number plates, making it easier to spread the cost. This gives you more flexibility to choose a plate you really want without stretching your budget.
Help Finding the Right Plate: If you’re working to a budget or have a specific idea in mind, our team can suggest similar options that achieve the same look at a lower price.
Optional Assignment Service: Add our assignment service at checkout and we’ll handle the paperwork when you’re ready to put the plate on your vehicle.
How to transfer a Cherished Number Plate
Cherished number plates exist in two states - on a certificate of entitlement (showing you as the legal owner), or on a vehicle. You can transfer a cherished plate from a vehicle to a certificate, or vice versa, with a DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) fee of £80 payable to make a registration 'transferable'.
The transfer process for registrations can be carried out online or via the post; but will require the V5C log book for any vehicles involved. The vehicles must be taxed and tested, and of course any certificate must be valid and not expired.
If you remove a registration from a vehicle to a certificate or another vehicle, the vehicle will receive another registration mark to take its place. This will typically be the original registration from before it was given a cherished number, or a random reg of suitable age for the vehicle.
If you’d prefer not to manage the transfer yourself, you can select our assignment service at checkout and we'll handle the paperwork and guide the process for you.
Looking to Sell a Cherished Number Plate?
Firstly, we give you a FREE valuation with a suggested sale price you can modify. We then advertise your plate, find you a buyer, and handle the transfer.
Finally, you get paid what you agreed with no deductions. The buyer pays all transfer costs.
Cherished private registrations are valuable investments in the UK and can fetch a pretty penny to private buyers.
Explore More Number Plate Options
Looking for something different? Explore other styles of private number plates to find the right fit for your budget and preferences.