Private Plate Auctions

DVLA holds around seven number plate auctions each year of previously unreleased distinctive and appealing registrations. Car Marks have attended every DVLA Auction since they started in 1989, providing us with a wealth of experience within the auction hall.

We provide a professional, comprehensive service which allows us to bid on your behalf, saving you time, and most importantly, money! Our service includes Suggested Hammer Price and Full Transfer Service. If we are successful in purchasing the registration on your behalf we charge a fee for our services - if we are not successful we do not charge. NO NUMBER PLATE – NO CHARGE!

We have acquired thousands of registrations for clients in this way, most of which have proved to be excellent investments. These numbers are unique and it can sometimes be difficult to determine their value. However we have detailed records of all previous auction sales enabling us to offer expert advice which could result in saving you thousands of pounds!

Contact us now for more details. More often than not our realistic charges prove to be self-financing. Check the list below to search for the next release of Auction Numbers

Personalised number plate auctions in the UK offer car enthusiasts and collectors a unique opportunity to secure distinctive registrations, often at competitive prices. These auctions, run primarily by the DVLA, have become a cornerstone of the personalised plate market, blending tradition with modern online bidding systems.

The Rise of Personalised Plate Auctions

Personalised registrations have long been a symbol of individuality on UK roads. Since the launch of the DVLA’s Sale of Marks Scheme in 1989, over 4.2 million registrations have been sold, raising more than £2 billion for the Treasury. Auctions quickly became a popular way to release exclusive and highly desirable plates, particularly those with short, dateless, or easily recognisable combinations.

Unlike standard online sales, auctions create a competitive environment where bidders vie for unique plates. This often drives up values, especially for plates that spell names, initials, or luxury car brands. For example, plates like “25 O” or “F1” have achieved record-breaking sums, cementing auctions as the premier marketplace for rare registrations.

How DVLA Auctions Work

The DVLA hosts multiple auctions each year, traditionally five in-person events, though recent years have seen a shift toward timed online auctions. These auctions feature thousands of registrations, ranging from affordable options starting at £250 to highly sought-after plates with reserve prices in the thousands.

Key features of DVLA auctions include:

• Timed online bidding: Auctions typically run for several days, allowing bidders to place and adjust bids at their convenience.

• Wide selection of plates: From classic dateless numbers to modern combinations, auctions cater to diverse tastes.

• Flexible participation: Bidders can join online, via telephone, or by submitting absentee bids, making the process accessible nationwide.

• Transparency on past sales: DVLA publishes results from previous auctions, helping buyers gauge market trends and set realistic expectations.

Why Auctions Matter

Auctions are not just about securing a plate; they are about prestige, investment, and personalisation. For many, owning a registration that reflects their name, business, or vehicle brand is a statement of identity. For others, it’s a savvy investment: rare plates often appreciate in value, making them attractive assets.

The competitive nature of auctions also ensures that rare plates achieve fair market value. This benefits both the DVLA, which channels proceeds into public funds, and buyers, who gain confidence in the legitimacy of their purchase.

Tips for Buyers

If you’re considering bidding at a personalised plate auction, preparation is key:

• Research past auction prices to understand market value.

• Set a clear budget and avoid getting carried away in competitive bidding.

• Register early to ensure smooth participation in online or telephone bidding.

• Look for hidden gems: not all valuable plates are obvious; initials or short combinations can be surprisingly desirable.

Personalised number plate auctions in the UK remain one of the most exciting ways to secure a unique registration. Whether you’re chasing a plate that reflects your identity, investing in a rare asset, or simply enjoying the thrill of bidding, DVLA auctions provide a transparent and accessible marketplace. With upcoming auctions scheduled, now is the perfect time to explore the world of personalised registrations and make your mark on the road.