How Do I Put A Private Plate On My Lease Car?

Whether it’s a nickname, a special date, or a meaningful word — many customers like to add a private number plate (also known as a cherished plate) to their new lease car. This guide explains exactly how the process works, both before and after delivery.

Step 1: Place the Plate on Retention

Before anything else, make sure your private registration is on a Retention Certificate (V778). If it's not already, you can place your plate on retention via the official GOV.UK website:

Put a registration number on retention

Step 2: Add the Finance Company as Nominee

Since you don’t legally own a leased vehicle, the finance company is the registered keeper and must be listed as the Nominee on your certificate.

In the Nominee Details section of your V778, enter the full legal name of the finance provider (e.g. Volkswagen Financial Services Ltd, ALD Automotive Ltd, etc.). If unsure, please ask your Sales Executive.

Step 3: Submit the Form to DVLA

Once the Nominee details are added, post the Retention Document to the DVLA so they can officially add the finance provider’s name to the certificate.

DVLA Address:
DVLA
Personalised Registrations
Swansea
SA99 1DS

Step 4: Choose When to Add Your Plate

You have two options for fitting your private plate:

Once DVLA returns the updated Retention Certificate, send it to us or the supplying dealership. We’ll arrange for your plate to be applied before delivery.

🔹 Please note: This option can delay delivery by several days or weeks, depending on dealer processing times.

Most customers choose this option to avoid delivery delays.

Let us know you want to add a private plate as soon as possible.
Send your updated Retention Document (V778) directly to the finance company.
Once approved, you can fit the physical plate yourself (or at a registered plate supplier).

🔹 Please note:

You'll need to get the physical plates printed yourself.
The finance company may charge an admin fee for processing.

Step 5: End of Contract – Removing the Plate

Before your lease ends, make sure you remove your private plate from the car. You can either:

Place the plate back on Retention, or
Transfer it to your next vehicle (whether lease or owned)

To remove the plate, use the GOV.UK tool:

Take a private number off a vehicle

Failing to do this before the car is returned could result in your plate being lost or retained by the finance company.

Still Unsure?

If you're not sure about any part of the process, please give us a call on 0151 728 4711 and we’ll be happy to advise on the best steps for your lease and private plate.