If you have a private or cherished number plate on a car you plan to scrap, you must act before the vehicle is destroyed. Once a car is scrapped and the Certificate of Destruction is issued, the registration number is permanently withdrawn and cannot be recovered.
Apply Before Scrapping
You must apply to the DVLA to retain the registration number while the car is still registered and before it goes to the scrap yard. The DVLA assigns a replacement age-related registration to the vehicle, freeing your private plate for future use.
Eligibility Requirements
To retain a registration, the vehicle must be registered in your name on the V5C, the car must have a valid MOT or recent MOT history, and the vehicle must be taxed or on SORN. If the car does not have a valid MOT, the DVLA may still allow retention but you should check before proceeding.
How to Apply
You can apply online through the DVLA website or by post using form V317. The application costs 80 pounds. Once approved, you receive a V778 retention document which allows you to assign the number to another vehicle within 10 years.
Timescales
Online applications are usually processed within a few days. Postal applications can take several weeks. Plan ahead and do not leave it until the last minute, as delays could mean the car is scrapped before the transfer is complete.
Let Us Know
If you need to retain a registration plate before scrapping, tell us when you request your quote. We can schedule the collection to allow time for the DVLA process. The replacement registration assigned to the car does not affect the scrap value.
Planning to scrap but want to keep your plate? Contact us for advice and a free quote. We cover Glasgow, Stirling, Aberdeen, and all of Scotland.