DVLA Number Plate Change Set for Next Sunday to Impact Car Values Nationwide
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is preparing to implement significant number plate changes starting next Sunday, March 1, 2026, a move expected to affect millions of cars across the United Kingdom by influencing their market value.
The introduction of the new '26' number plate marks a biannual update in the UK's vehicle registration system, but it carries broader implications for car owners and buyers alike.
Impact on Vehicle Depreciation and Resale Prices
This rollout has a direct knock-on effect throughout the automotive market, as the release of new plates can substantially impact a vehicle's resale value. Cars sold in February may command higher selling prices compared to those in March, due to accelerated depreciation following the plate change.
On average, a new car can lose approximately 20 percent of its value within the first year alone, with depreciation potentially reaching up to 33 percent over a three-year period. This financial hit is often exacerbated by the timing of plate releases, making strategic buying and selling crucial for consumers.
Details of the New Number Plate System
From March 1, 2026, all new vehicles registered will feature the 26 plate, which will remain in use until August 31, 2026. Subsequently, from September 1, 2026, new cars will be registered with a 76 plate, applicable until February 28, 2027.
This system follows a consistent pattern: March number plates always reflect the current year number, while September plates add 50 to the year number (e.g., 26 + 50 = 76 for 2026). Standard number plates comprise the first two letters indicating the area of registration, two numbers as an age identifier, and three randomly chosen letters allocated to dealerships upon registration.
Current and Future Plate Releases
The UK's number plates change twice annually on March 1 and September 1. The newest plate currently in circulation is the 75 plate, with the upcoming 26 plate set to debut next Sunday. To maintain propriety, the DVLA withholds certain combinations each year; for the 2026 series, 403 combinations have been blocked from use.
This regular update cycle not only refreshes vehicle aesthetics but also plays a pivotal role in the automotive economy, influencing everything from consumer behavior to dealership strategies.
