New Number Plate Dates 2025–2026: Full DVLA Guide

The UK registration plate system changes twice a year, and many drivers want to know the exact dates for the 25, 26, and upcoming 2026 plates. This guide explains when new plates are released, how DVLA plate changes work, and which registrations apply to cars registered in 2025 and 2026. It also includes tips for understanding plate formats and managing personalised registrations.

When Do New Number Plates Come Out?

New plates are introduced every March and September. The March release uses the calendar year, while the September release follows the year+50 format. This system ensures that every vehicle has a registration reflecting its registration period within the year. Understanding this schedule helps buyers, sellers, and car enthusiasts identify a vehicle’s registration year instantly.

26 Plate Release Date (2026 Plate)

The 26 plate will be introduced on 1 March 2026 and will remain current until 31 August 2026. The second 2026 release, known as the 76 plate, begins on 1 September 2026. Cars registered in this period will carry these specific identifiers, making it easy to determine their registration year at a glance. Drivers who want the earliest 26 plate should look for vehicles registered from March 2026.

New Car Registration Dates 2026

The DVLA confirms the following key dates for 2026:

• 1 March 2026: 26 plate release

• 1 September 2026: 76 plate release

Any car displaying a 26 or 76 plate was first registered in 2026. These registration dates apply consistently across all new vehicles, whether private or business registrations. Knowing these dates is also useful when checking car warranties, insurance, and resale value.

2025 Number Plates (25 and 75 Plates Explained)

The DVLA also released 2025 plates according to the same schedule:

• 1 March 2025: 25 plate release

• 1 September 2025: 75 plate release

A 25 plate car was registered from March until August 2025, while a 75 plate car was registered from September 2025 onwards. This pattern helps drivers and buyers quickly identify the registration period of a vehicle. Understanding the plate system also assists in comparing prices for new and used cars.

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What Year Is a 26 Plate Car?

A 26 plate indicates a car registered between 1 March 2026 and 31 August 2026. Knowing the registration year helps in identifying the vehicle age, potential warranty period, and insurance calculations. It also allows buyers to make informed decisions when comparing vehicles with different registration years.

What Is the Latest Number Plate Right Now?

The latest UK number plate depends on the current month:

• March–August: Year plates (e.g., 25, 26)

• September–February: Year+50 plates (e.g., 75, 76)

This system ensures a clear distinction between the two annual registration periods and helps buyers quickly recognise a vehicle’s registration year. Staying up to date with the latest plates can also help drivers make better decisions when purchasing new or used vehicles.

New UK Registration Format (Quick Summary)

UK number plates follow a consistent format:

• Two letters: Region code

• Two numbers: Year identifier

• Three letters: Random sequence

This format applies to all current and upcoming registrations, making it straightforward to interpret a vehicle’s origin and registration year. It also ensures consistency and avoids confusion when checking vehicle details.