UK dealers selling re-plated vehicles will soon not need to prove the buyer’s identity, thanks to lobbying by the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI).

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When a vehicle comes into a dealer’s stock, its number plate is likely to list the name of another dealer. Re-plating is simply the process of physically exchanging the number plate so that the selling dealer’s name is shown. Under the current regulations, dealers are required to record identification details of the buyer when selling a re-plated vehicle.


The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is hoping to enable the necessary changes for September.


Alistair Manson, head of the RMI’s National Franchised Dealers Association, said: “The RMI had called for the removal of the condition, as it unnecessarily hinders the sales process for dealers and consumers alike. We are delighted by the DVLA’s decision.”


Under the existing regulations, dealers must obtain proof of identity for the buyer of a re-plated vehicle, and keep a record for three years for possible inspection by enforcement authorities.

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Manson added: “This was a burden for dealers, an irritation for consumers, and unnecessary when customer details have already been captured as part of the vehicle sales transaction.”


This exemption does not apply when a motor dealer sells a number plate as separate item. Dealers will still need to obtain and record purchaser details in this situation.


Manson said: “The list of documentation needed to prove entitlement and identification will be expanded, and will include documents which can be used for company identification.”