DVLA Prohibits Over 400 '26' Series Number Plates for Offensive Content
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has taken decisive action by banning more than 400 number plates from the upcoming '26' series, set to be issued starting March 1, 2026. This move aims to prevent combinations that could be interpreted as rude, offensive, or inappropriate from appearing on UK roads.
Strict Enforcement and Potential Penalties
Ignoring these bans carries significant consequences for motorists. If a vehicle displays a number plate that violates the DVLA's legal rules, the driver could face a fine of up to £1,000. Additionally, the vehicle may be at risk of failing its MOT test, further complicating compliance and roadworthiness.
The DVLA conducted a thorough screening of the '26' number plate series, which will be used for cars first registered from March 1, 2026, until the end of August. Following this period, September registrations will switch to the '76' identifier, as per the standard practice of adding 50 to the March number.
Details of the Banned Combinations
According to information obtained through a Freedom of Information request and reported by Auto Express, over 400 combinations have been pulled from circulation. Examples of prohibited plates include AS26 HOL, SC26 TUM, MU26 GGD, PU26 SYY, and GO26 WAR. The DVLA has also excluded plates referencing geopolitical terms, such as RU26 UKR and RU26 RUS, to avoid potential sensitivities.
Mark Trimbee, CEO of RegTransfers, commented on the situation, stating, "The release of new number plates is always an exciting time for us, as it brings a fresh wave of fun, appealing and valuable combinations to our roads. Sadly, it also brings a new horde of combinations that are considered a bit too risky to allow out into the public."
Balancing Fun with Responsibility
Trimbee acknowledged the DVLA's role in this process, noting, "The DVLA has an unfortunate role to play, and while some might see this as them being 'killjoys', they do have the responsibility to keep people safe from offensive, derogatory and provocative plates." He added that this new list of banned combinations is one of the larger ones observed, but assured that there will still be plenty of great combinations available for motorists to choose from.
This proactive measure underscores the DVLA's commitment to maintaining decorum on public roads while ensuring that number plate registrations do not promote harmful or inappropriate messages. Drivers are advised to verify their number plate choices against the banned list to avoid fines and legal issues.
