Although September sees the arrival of the new ’75’ number plate for vehicles, it appears many Brits would rather splash the cash on a private plate, following the lead of well-known celebrities. 

 

According to motoring experience site DrivingExperience.com, DVLA figures show sales of personalised plates have more than doubled in the past decade, turning them into one of the UK’s most sought-after car accessories. 

 

From football clubs and job titles to hometown pride, drivers are using private plates to shout about who they are every time they hit the road. 

 

With prices starting from just £250 on the DVLA registrations website, and with access to over 60 million registrations, it’s clear to see why they are so appealing to countless drivers. 

 

Celebrities are not shy about flaunting their plates – not least boxers. Heavyweight superstar Tyson Fury struts his stuff with 88 GK – a nod to his 1988 birth year and his “Gypsy King” nickname – while fellow fighter Amir Khan landed a knock-out blow with BOX 111G. 

 

Football royalty are just as bold. David Beckham has long been linked with the coveted DB 1, while Wayne Rooney cheekily put his “Wazza” nickname on the bumper with WAZ 8. 
 
And it’s not just the football pitch or the ring. Lewis Hamilton has nailed pole position with LEW 1S, TV mogul Simon Cowell keeps it simple with the slick S1 MON, and magician Paul Daniels pulled a trick from his hat with MAG 1C. 

 

Imran Malek, corporate sales manager at DrivingExperience.com, said: “The arrival of the new ’75’ number plate puts car registrations in the news at this time of year, and also hopefully gives the UK automotive industry a welcome boost. 

 

“However, many car owners don’t want to wait until September to have a new number plate and are opting for a private plate to reflect their own interests, putting them in the same bracket as mega-rich individuals and famous faces.” 

 

Some of the highest prices for private number plates reach six-figure sums, and just recently the UK record was broken when JB 1 was sold for more than £600,000. 

 

Imran added: “It’s incredible to think that the UK’s most expensive number plate is worth more than double that of the average UK house price. 

 

“Such a noteworthy number plate would look great on a supercar, such as a Ferrari, Lamborghini or McLaren, all of which are available to enjoy with DrivingExperience.com. 

 

“Indeed, jumping behind the wheel of the top of a range model on a Supercar Experience day is another way to get a motoring thrill, and nearly always much more affordable than buying a personalised number plate.” 

 

 For more information about DrivingExperience.com, visit www.drivingexperience.com.