The DVLA’s Timed Online Auction is under way and the excitement is palpable, with 2,000 distinctive plates that are set to infuse vehicles with added fascination, character and allure.
The DVLA personalised registrations auction isn’t just an opportunity to snag unique number plates first—it’s a chance to anticipate the storied journeys these plates will embark on once they find their new homes.
Running from Wednesday, 24th July, to Tuesday, 30th July 2024, the auction promises a treasure trove of options. If you haven’t checked out the offerings yet, now’s the time to dive in. With a wealth of gems on the block, the auction is sure to attract a vibrant mix of collectors, resellers, and auto aficionados. Don’t miss your chance to discover the perfect plate that could redefine your ride.
These are twenty of our favourite picks (in no particular order) we believe will be some of the most sought after:
Personal touch: Tailored name number plates for distinctive personalities
When it comes to personalised registrations, it doesn’t get more personal or tailored than name number plates, each offering a unique connection to its owner.
Starting with AA24 RON, a clever twist that spells out ‘Aaron’, a popular name which has seen bidding on similar Aaron plates over the past few years range anywhere from £4,000 – £10,000.
Next up, COL 711N stands out in the market as a prime choice for anyone named Collin. Then there’s LE06 NNY, which, while not perfect, is unmistakably Lenny and will add a charming twist to any vehicle it graces.
24 DAM presents an incredible opportunity, especially when you consider its comparison to the astronomically priced 4 DAM, currently on the market for a smidgen over £400,000. It’s bound to be an absolute steal for any Adam seeking both value and a touch of dateless class.
For Ians born in 1990, 901 AN could very well send shivers and excitement up and down your spine, embodying a personal connection that’s hard to overlook.
And then we have LOU 71S, this name registration might just be destiny for a Louis, especially if it’s paired with a Lotus, creating a heavenly match both in name and style.
Track legends: Exclusive number plates for elite vehicles
For those with a passion for precision and power, these car-specific number plates are more than mere identifiers—they’re badges of honour. MC19 REN is a siren call for McLaren enthusiasts, likely to ignite a frenzied rush among devotees of the brand’s sleek, high-performance machines.
Could this plate also catch the eye of McLaren’s own marketing mavens?
Then, there’s the trio of Porsche-inspired treasures: 911 STR directly celebrates the revered model, a fitting tribute indeed. 911 FUN epitomizes the thrill of piloting a Porsche 911, often hailed as the ultimate joyride. And 9117 OY, destined to be flaunted as 911 TOY, adds a playful spin, sure to be a hit among Porsche collectors looking for a blend of fun and fanfare in their custom tags.
Deceptively numeric: Number plates with hidden depth and character
For those who delight in the allure of numerology and sleek design, these visually striking plates that appear purely numeric at first glance offer a rare blend of elegance and intrigue.
OO07 OOO is an instant classic for James Bond enthusiasts, with its perfect symmetry and subtle homage to 007 making it destined for an Aston Martin and potentially fetching top dollar at auction. For context, consider OO08 OOO—symbolising the lucky number 8 and infinity loop—which fetched £25,000 plus fees when the gavel landed at last year’s July auction, underscoring the premium that such distinctive plates can attract.
2000 O stuns with its beautiful repetition, suggesting a value that might well exceed expectations, perfect for those who appreciate a plate that offers more than meets the eye.
The 89 OO plate, with its clever use of the O character mimicking a zero, offers a subtle charm that’s unique yet understated, appealing to those who appreciate the finer details in design. Meanwhile, 98 XX resonates with those born in 1998, while its X’s—suggestive of mystery or a tender kiss—promise broad appeal. Finally, 511 X teases the imagination: are you ready to dial it up to a ‘Six’?
Each of these plates not only commands attention but also tells a story, weaving numbers and letters into narratives that captivate and connect with their prospective audience.
Personality registrations: Stories and style on the auction block
For those with a penchant for thematic flair and clever wordplay, these personalised number plates blend humour, intrigue, and pop culture seamlessly.
DAD 80D is a cheeky nod to all the fun-loving dads embracing the ‘Dad Bod’ lifestyle, bringing a smile and a sense of pride to family vehicles.
EXP 101T, cleverly spelling out “Exploit”, has already stirred up excitement among plate enthusiasts, its backstory and potential value sparking lively discussions pre-auction.
GOV 1P might just be the ultimate find for someone in the governmental or intellectual property sectors, offering a rare and possibly intentional twist on ‘Government IP’ with perfect spacing.
OLD 80Y taps into the current trend of ‘Boy’ plates, enhancing its appeal among collectors with a keen eye for playful and trendy tags.
BTM 44N adds a dash of Gotham glamour to the collection, channelling the mystique of the Dark Knight himself. This Batman number plate is a must-have for anyone eager to infuse their driveway with a hint of Batman’s iconic, brooding allure.
These plates do more than simply mark a vehicle; they spark conversations and exude a rich tapestry of personality and cultural references, transforming any car into a narrative on wheels.
How to bid: DVLA number plate auction
With any auction, it’s always best to set your maximum budget ahead of bidding and most importantly to stick to it.
The best way we’ve found to bid at the DVLA number plate auction is to either
- Bid 70-80% of your maximum bid at the start and then top up as necessary at least 50 mins before the auction ends or
- Wait and place your maximum bid at least 50 mins toward the end of an auction.
These strategies will either take you out of the running should you max out your budget, or put off rival bidders if your max bid is seemingly much higher than they are willing to pay; all within good time to hopefully prevent the auction sliding.
Top tip – Whole numbers in the 50 or 100’s are psychological anchors. Setting your max budget at £2,030 rather than £2,000 may just give you the edge.
If you’re unsuccessful at the auction, head to the Best Reg Company to explore their number plate marketplace. You might just find what you’re looking for, commission-free and available from independent sellers.
Best of luck bidding!