When a car reaches the end of its life — whether due to age, damage, or repair costs — scrapping becomes the next logical step. In the UK, this process must follow regulations set by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) and carried out through an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). But what happens to your personalised number plate when you scrap your vehicle?
If you’re thinking, “It’s time to scrap my car,” you’ll want to make sure you’ve followed all DVLA steps — especially if you’re hoping to keep a personalized plate.
Let’s walk you through how to check a car’s scrapped status and how to keep your private registration plate before scrapping a car.
Why it’s important to check a car’s Scrapped Status?
Before scrapping your car — or even buying a used vehicle — it’s essential to know if the vehicle has been officially marked as scrapped by the DVLA.
When a vehicle is dismantled by an ATF, the DVLA issues a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) confirming the car has been fully recycled and is no longer roadworthy. Without this certificate, the car might still legally exist — and you could remain liable.
But here’s the catch: not all vehicles sent to ATFs are immediately scrapped. Some may be dismantled for parts and not qualify for a CoD. In such cases, the DVLA may instead send a letter confirming you’re no longer responsible for the vehicle — but only if they’ve been properly informed.
To avoid confusion or legal risk, you should always verify a vehicle’s scrapped status.
What happens to a car's number plate when scrapped?
In most cases, a standard number plate “dies” with the car. When a car is scrapped:
- Its registration is cancelled.
- The number plate is withdrawn.
- It cannot be used on another vehicle.
This prevents the fraudulent reuse of vehicle identities.
Can i keep my personalised number plate when i scrap my car?
Yes — but you must apply to retain it before scrapping the car. Personalised plates can be:
- Transferred to another vehicle.
- Retained on a certificate for future use.
The DVLA offers two ways to do this:
- Online via the DVLA Retention Service.
- By post using the V317 form.
Option A: Retaining your number plate online
This is the fastest and most convenient method. You’ll need:
- The 11-digit number from your vehicle’s V5C (logbook).
- A valid debit/credit card for the £80 fee.
- Your vehicle must be registered with the DVLA.
Steps:
- Go to the DVLA Retention Service.
- Provide the registration number, logbook reference number, and keeper’s postcode.
- Choose the Grantee (who will own the plate) or Nominee (someone you want to transfer it to later).
- Pay the fee and receive immediate confirmation.
- Your V778 Retention Certificate will arrive by post within 2 weeks.
- Your vehicle will receive a new registration number, ready for scrapping.
How to check if a number plate is on retention?
If you’re unsure whether your personalised plate has been successfully retained, you can check the DVLA’s records using the registration number. Once on retention, the plate will no longer be linked to your scrapped car but will be listed on a V778 retention certificate.
Option B: Apply by post using v317 form
Prefer paper? Here’s how the postal option works:
You’ll need:
- The car’s logbook (V5C)
- A cheque/postal order for £80 made payable to “DVLA Swansea”
- Download DVLA Form V317
Steps:
- Complete the grey ‘Option B’ section of the V317.
- Include vehicle details: reg number, make, model, and VIN.
- Select a grantee or nominee (if you skip this, the keeper becomes the grantee by default).
- Post the completed form and documents to:
( DVLA Personalised Registrations, Swansea, SA99 1DS )
Expect your retention certificate (V778) in the post within 2–4 weeks.
How to check if a vehicle has already been scrapped?
When buying a used car, it’s critical to check whether the car has already been declared scrapped. A previously scrapped vehicle should not return to the road unless explicitly rebuilt and inspected.
👉 Learn how to spot a scrapped car and what red flags to watch for in our full guide on How to Check if a Car Has Been Scrapped in the UK
Final thoughts
Whether you’re planning to scrap your car or searching “how to scrap my car” online, it’s essential to check the vehicle’s scrapped status. A DVLA-based report helps protect you legally and financially throughout the process.
🚗 Run a Car Scrapped Check with Car Analytics today – the smart way to stay informed.
Frequently asked questions
If you scrap your car before applying for retention, the plate is lost permanently. Once the DVLA issues a CoD, the number plate can’t be recovered or reassigned.
Yes, by listing someone as the Nominee during the retention process.
The DVLA doesn’t offer this service directly to the public. Reputable providers like CarAnalytics charge a minimal fee.
In most cases, no — once a car is scrapped and the number plate hasn’t been retained beforehand, the registration is lost. You cannot buy a number plate that was not officially retained through the DVLA.
