The Private Plate Co Review
Over 30 years of specialist plate dealing. MIRAD member. 40M+ plates.
1993
Established
40M+
Plates
N/A
Trustpilot
MIRAD
Memberships
Included
Transfer
Overview
The Private Plate Co has been trading since 1993, making them one of the longer-established dealers in the UK personalised registration market. With over 30 years of experience, they bring genuine specialist knowledge.
They're a MIRAD (Marks & International Registration Agents & Dealers) member, which is one of the industry's key accreditations. Their database includes over 40 million registrations.
This is a traditional dealer that focuses on personal service over technology. If you value speaking to someone who knows the market inside-out, The Private Plate Co delivers that experience.
Pricing & Fees Breakdown
What you'll actually pay — no surprises
| Fee | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest plate | ~£150 | Entry-level registrations start around this price. |
| DVLA transfer fee (£80) | On top | Standard DVLA fee charged separately. |
| Transfer handling | Included | The Private Plate Co handles the DVLA paperwork. |
| Seller listing | Free | No charge to list your plate for sale. |
| Seller commission | Commission-based | Commission added to the buyer's price. |
Example total cost: A plate listed at £150 + £80 DVLA fee = £230 total. Commission-based pricing means the markup varies by plate.
Pros & Cons
What We Like
- 30+ years in the business
- MIRAD member — industry accredited
- Personal, knowledgeable service
- Transfer handling included
- Free seller listings
- Experienced in complex transfers
Room for Improvement
- No finance or payment plan options
- No physical plate manufacturing
- Smaller online presence than major competitors
- Website could be modernised
- Higher starting prices than budget dealers
- No online chat support
Services
Plate Search
Search over 40 million registrations from DVLA and private sellers.
Transfer Handling
Full DVLA transfer service included with every purchase.
Sell Your Plate
Free listings with commission added to the buyer's price — you keep your full asking amount.
Free Valuation
Expert valuation based on 30+ years of market experience.
Retention Help
Guidance and assistance with DVLA retention certificates.
Personal Consultation
Speak directly to experienced plate specialists for advice on buying or selling.
Our Verdict
The Private Plate Co is a dealer that trades on experience and personal service. Thirty years in the industry means they know what plates are worth and how to navigate complex transfers.
They won't dazzle you with a flashy website or Klarna checkout, but they'll give you solid, honest advice and handle your transfer professionally. MIRAD membership adds an extra layer of trust.
A good choice if you value speaking to a real specialist rather than clicking through a self-service checkout.
Best for: Buyers who value personal service and expert advice from an experienced, industry-accredited dealer.
Key Information
| Website | theprivateplateco.co.uk |
| Established | 1993 |
| Memberships | MIRAD |
| Finance | Not available |
| Physical plates | Not available |
| Phone support | Mon–Fri |
Information verified March 2026. Subject to change.