Can You Put a Private Plate on a Lease Car?

Are you wondering, Can I put a private plate on a lease car? At Car Leasing, we’re often asked this question, and the short answer is yes, you can absolutely add a private number plate to your leased car. However, there are a few steps and guidelines to follow to ensure the process is done legally and correctly. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about adding a private registration plate to your lease car, including the process, costs, and what to do at the end of your lease. Whether you're leasing a car for personal use or business leasing, this information applies to you.

What is a Private Number Plate?

A private number plate is a personalised vehicle registration plate. Unlike standard plates, private plates allow you to create a unique combination of letters and numbers that represent you or your vehicle. For those leasing a car, van, or fleet wanting their number plate to reflect their business, this is a great way to add a personal touch to your leased vehicle, making it feel more like your own. Typically, number plates are assigned randomly by the

Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency - GOV.UK

How Much Does a Private Number Plate Cost?

The cost of a private number plate can vary depending on the combination of characters you select. On average, to have your personalised plates regaistered to your car, it costs £80. Although prices of your number plate can range from hundreds to thousands of pounds, that cost depends on rarity and demand. While it’s an extra expense, investing in a private plate can be a fun and lasting way to personalise your leased car.

How Do You Put a Private Plate on a Lease Car?

Now that you know what a private plate is and how much it costs, let’s get into how to attach one to your leased car. The process involves a few official steps to ensure everything is done correctly with both the DVLA and your leasing dealer. Here’s a step-by-step guide to putting a private plate on your lease car:

Step 1: Get Permission from Your Lease Dealer

Since your leased vehicle is owned by the leasing company, you must first obtain permission from your dealer to change the registration plate. At Car Leasing, we’re happy to permit you to affix your private number plate to your leased vehicle. Just get in touch with us before the car’s delivery, and we’ll guide you through the process.

Step 2: Add Your Dealer to Your Certificate of Entitlement

When you purchase a private number plate, you’ll receive a Certificate of Entitlement from the DVLA, which specifies who has the right to use the registration. You’ll need to add your lease dealer to this certificate, as they are the registered owner of the vehicle.

Step 3: Send Your Certificate and Fees to Your Dealer

Send your Certificate of Entitlement along with a cover letter and any required payment (including DVLA assignment fees and administration fees) to your lease dealer. Contact us at Car Leasing for assistance with the fee structure and to ensure everything is in order

Step 4: Wait for Confirmation from the DVLA

Once your dealer submits everything to the DVLA, they’ll process the change and send you confirmation. Your dealer will liaise with the DVLA to make sure everything is processed smoothly.

How Do I Get a Private Number Plate Fitted?

Once your private plate is approved, the next step is to get it fitted. The easiest way to do this is to have the private plates fitted before your leased car is delivered. This way, your vehicle will arrive with the private number plate already attached, ensuring that everything is exactly how you want it from day one.

If you choose to fit your private plate after your vehicle arrives, you can still do so, but it will involve a bit more effort. You’ll need to take the car to a fitting service, which means your car will be off the road for a period of time.

At Car Leasing, we’re happy to help with both options and provide support throughout the process.

How Do I Remove My Private Plate at the End of My Lease?

At the end of your lease, you’ll need to remove your private plate and either transfer it to another vehicle or return it to the DVLA as unassigned. The process typically takes between 6 – 8 weeks, so it's important to start early.

If you are continuing your contract with Car Leasing, we will help you transfer the plate to your new vehicle. If you are not continuing your contract, you need to ensure that your private number plate has been removed before the car is collected.

Whether or not you are continuing your contract, you will be responsible for completing all the necessary paperwork and providing the new registration fees to the DVLA. This process is similar to registering your private plate for the first time. You will need to:

1. Contact Your Dealer

Contact your dealer with a covering letter stating your intention to transfer or remove your private plate. You will also need to send a cheque for the transfer fees, along with any applicable administration fees.

2. Await Confirmation

Once the DVLA and your dealer process the transfer, you’ll receive confirmation, allowing the registration to be officially removed or transferred to your new vehicle.

3. Complete the Process

If you’re transferring the plate to a new leased car, we’ll help you through the paperwork and the DVLA process. If you’re not leasing another vehicle, the plate will be marked as unassigned.

Private Number Plates with Car Leasing

At Car Leasing, we’re here to assist you with the entire process of obtaining, adding, or removing your private number plate. Whether you’re leasing a car for personal or business use, we can guide you through every step of the way and help ensure the paperwork and procedures are completed correctly.

If you have any questions about car leasing, private plates, or the steps involved, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team today. We’re here to provide you with all the information you need to make your car leasing experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.