What is the Significance of Private Plates?
Since the enactment of the Motor Car Act, it became mandatory for all vehicle owners to carry private plates. This was important as it helped authorities identify the vehicles that are involved in crimes. Every vehicle has a vehicle identification number stamped on different parts such as chassis and engine blocks. However, it is easier to identify a vehicle with a private number plate as they are easy to read and spot.
In the present format of UK number plates, there are in total 7 characters. It starts with two initial alphabets followed by 2 numerals and then addition of more alphabets completes the number plate. Sometimes, the way these numerals and alphabets are arranged form up a phrase. Most of the time, the characters are randomly arranged. Those who can read a registration can say a lot of things about a number plate in just one glance.
In case you just bought a new car with a private plate registration, then you must be wondering what is the significance of private plates. So, let’s read about this in detail.
What do numbers on a number plate indicate?
Sometimes number plates depict the order in which they are registered. As per the current format, the two digits indicate the age of the vehicle. The placement of numbers is such that those who look at it can easily get to know its age.
New number plates are issued twice every year. The plates that are launched during the initial half of the year have the last two digits of the year as their third and fourth character. So, plates released in spring 2023 are going to have 2 and 3 as their third and fourth character.
The plates that are released in the second half of the year have 50 added to the last two digits of the year. So, all the plates that will be released in the later half are going to have the numbers seven and three.
What do initial letters on a number plate indicate?
In the current number plate styles, there are two alphabets in the beginning and three alphabets at the end of the number plate. The initial two letters indicate the location where the number plate was originally registered. You can check the two letter code and then check where the number plate is originally from. Earlier, it was difficult to determine the region by looking at the format of private plates but now it is easier. Previously, a private plate registered in London started with the letter A. As per the current format, the number plates start from the letter L.
What do the last three letters on your number plate indicate?
The three alphabets at the end of your private plate make your private plate unique. These final characters help you distinguish your car from other cars. The characters depicting the age and region of registration can be the same but the last three letters bring the uniqueness to your number plates.
What are the benefits of having a private plate?
Now that you have the basic understanding of what a private plate means, you will be amazed to know the varied benefits you get by having a private number plate. Some of the advantages are as follows.
1) Keeps your automobile safe
As stated earlier, private number plates are easily identifiable. Their uniqueness and easy identification keeps your automobile secure as a robber would not attempt to steal a car, which can easily be identified as it will increase his chances of getting caught. Even if your car gets stolen, its recovery is highly likely as people will recognize your private plate.
2) Can be given as a gift
If your friend, family member or a dear one is a car lover, then there can’t be a better gift for him or her than a personalised number plate. This will add value to that person’s vehicle and he or she will always cherish this beautiful gift.
3) Use private places to market your business
Personalised number plates are a great way to promote your business. It can help you build a public image. Simultaneously, you can use them to create awareness about the products and services you offer.
4) You can use private plates to personalise your car
If you want, you can create a personalised number plate. These number plates can have your initials, your name or anything you like. The best way to personalise your number plates is to use dateless number plates as these number plates have less restriction on numerals and alphabets. With these number plates, you can use some creativity and create something different.
