New Reg Review
The UK's first online plate dealer. Est. 1991. 72M+ plates. 4.7/5 Trustpilot.
1991
Established
72M+
Plates
4.7/5
Trustpilot
3,800+
Reviews
1996
Online since
Overview
New Reg was founded in 1991 and became the first UK number plate dealer to launch a website in 1996 — making them a genuine pioneer in the industry. They've been selling personalised registrations for over 30 years.
They offer access to over 72 million DVLA and private registrations with a straightforward search-and-buy experience. As members of both MIRAD and CNDA, they carry the industry's top accreditations.
The company operates from the UK and provides full DVLA transfer handling as part of the purchase, meaning buyers don't need to deal with any paperwork themselves.
Pricing & Fees Breakdown
What you'll actually pay — no surprises
| Fee | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DVLA plates (starting price) | ~£150 | Starting price for basic DVLA registrations. |
| DVLA £80 transfer fee | £80 | Government fee charged on top of the plate price. |
| Dealer commission | Commission-based | Added to the seller's price — buyer pays the markup. |
| Transfer handling | Included | Full DVLA paperwork managed as part of purchase. |
| Selling via brokerage | Free to seller | Commission added to buyer's price, not deducted from seller. |
| Physical plates | Not supplied | Must be ordered separately. |
| Retention certificate | £80 (DVLA fee) | Standard DVLA retention fee. |
Example total cost: A plate listed at £500 on New Reg includes the dealer's commission. You'll pay an additional £80 DVLA fee on top. Total: approximately £580.
Pros & Cons
What We Like
- First UK plate dealer to go online — 30+ years of digital experience
- MIRAD and CNDA member — full industry accreditation
- 72M+ plates searchable — one of the largest databases
- Transfer handling included in purchase price
- Strong Trustpilot rating: 4.7/5 from 3,800+ reviews
- Plate builder tool for visual previewing
Room for Improvement
- No finance or buy-now-pay-later options
- No physical plates supplied
- Website design feels somewhat dated
- No DVLA auction bidding service
- Commission structure not fully transparent upfront
- Phone support limited to weekday business hours
Services
Buy Number Plates
Search 72M+ registrations from DVLA and private sellers. Filter by format, budget, and style.
Sell Your Plate
Free listing with commission added to the buyer's price. Full payout to seller.
Transfer Handling
Complete DVLA transfer management included at no extra cost.
Plate Builder
Visual tool to create and preview custom plate combinations before buying.
Free Valuation
Get a free valuation for your plate before deciding to sell.
Retention Service
Help with DVLA retention certificates to keep plates off-vehicle.
Our Verdict
New Reg is a reliable, long-established dealer with genuine pioneering credentials. Being the first online plate dealer counts for something — they've had longer than anyone to refine their digital experience.
Their MIRAD and CNDA memberships provide strong trust signals, and the 72M+ plate database means you're searching a comprehensive stock. Transfer handling is included, which saves buyers the hassle of DVLA paperwork.
The main drawbacks are the lack of finance options and physical plates. The website could also benefit from a refresh. But for a straightforward purchase from a reputable dealer, New Reg delivers.
Best for: Buyers who value an established, accredited dealer with a large database and included transfer handling.
Key Information
| Trading as | New Reg |
| Website | newreg.co.uk |
| Founded | 1991 |
| Online since | 1996 |
| DVLA registered | Yes |
| MIRAD member | Yes |
| CNDA member | Yes |
| Finance | Not available |
| Trustpilot | 4.7/5 (3,800+ reviews) |
Information verified March 2026. Subject to change.