Record Sums for Unique Number Plates Revealed

Record-Breaking Sales of Personalised Number Plates in 2025

In 2025, the market for personalised number plates has seen an unprecedented surge, with record-breaking sales and some plates fetching nearly a million pounds. New data reveals that the highest price ever recorded for a licence plate was achieved twice within just six months, surpassing a previous decade-old record.

The first milestone was reached in July when a J B registration plate was sold for over £600,000. This was soon followed by another record-breaking sale in November, where an 1 F plate was purchased for £936,000. These figures highlight the growing demand for unique and valuable number plates, which have become more than just a means of identification—they are now seen as status symbols and potential investments.

Among the new novelty plates approved by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) include 8008 S, 91 SS, and AUT 15M. Each of these plates has been sold for thousands of pounds, with experts suggesting that this boom is driven by buyers looking for opportunities to invest in something that could appreciate in value over time.

The most expensive number plate sold directly by the DVLA was 52 O, which was later auctioned off for over £100,000. It was placed on a BMQ 520, showcasing how even standard-numbered plates can command high prices if they are considered rare or desirable.

According to industry reports, there has been a significant increase in interest in personalised number plates. In fact, as many as 72 new number plates have been sold for more than £20,000. Notable examples include DB1 and JK 1, which became the eighth and 14th most expensive plates ever sold in the country, with each fetching £437,000 and £336,000 respectively.

Other notable sales include a DAM 1T licence plate, which was auctioned for £21,090, and 8008 S and 91 SS, which were purchased for £27,410 and £23,100 respectively.

The Psychology Behind Personalised Number Plates

Catherine Jansson-Boyd, a professor of consumer psychology at Anglia Ruskin University, believes that the recent surge in interest in personalised number plates stems from drivers’ desire to express their individuality through their vehicles. She explained:

“We know from a psychological perspective that people tend to consume things they think are extensions of who they are. We merge into one with them. If you bought a car because you think it's an extension of yourself, you are also then particularly attached to it and you're going to want that to be a little bit more special because otherwise, it's just like everybody else's car.”

Professor Jansson-Boyd also noted that buyers often choose humorous or quirky plates to make a statement in a sea of otherwise dull registrations. The auction process further fuels this trend, as bidders may end up spending more than they initially intended due to the competitive nature of the bidding.

How to Acquire a Personalised Number Plate

Millions of number plates are available from the DVLA, starting at £250. However, more sought-after plates typically go to auction, especially if the licensing authority believes they will be in high demand. This includes shorter plates or those that resemble certain names or words.

The DVLA ensures that offensive or inappropriate registrations are not included in auctions. Any such plates are removed, and the proceeds are directed to the Treasury and the Department for Transport. For instance, the DVLA previously banned plates related to the COVID-19 pandemic due to concerns about being offensive or in poor taste.

New plates are sold by John Pye auctioneers, and since its first sale in October, ten plates have gone for over £20,000.

Industry Outlook

Angela Banh, a marketing manager at Regtransfers.co.uk, described 2025 as a "really exciting year" for the personal registration plate industry. She noted that interest in novelty plates has never been higher, with more people seeking unique and meaningful ways to personalise their vehicles.

A DVLA spokesperson added: “Many people enjoy displaying a personalised registration, with almost endless combinations available to suit a person's taste, interest, and budget. Each year, approximately 18,000 unique registrations are released through our online auctions, with around 85 per cent based on customer requests. There are also over 65 million registrations available to purchase on our website, with fixed prices starting from £250.”