The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced a major reform in its vehicle registration system, with number plates set to be issued in the names of individual owners beginning January 2026.

According to the DVLA, the new measure is aimed at enhancing security and safety on the roads by ensuring that every vehicle number plate can be directly linked to its registered owner.

Under the new system, the number plate will belong to the individual and not the vehicle. Owners will therefore be responsible for removing their plates when transferring ownership of their vehicles. The incoming owner would then be required to undergo the registration process to secure a new plate.

“Once implemented, every vehicle owner is entreated to see their vehicle numbers as their personal numbers with the additional responsibility of protecting them,” the DVLA statement explained.

The Authority noted that the change would make it easier for law enforcement and other security agencies to trace vehicle-related activities directly to individuals, strengthening accountability within the transport ecosystem.

DVLA further emphasised that the initiative is designed to ensure a seamless link between a vehicle number and its rightful owner, thereby curbing fraudulent use of number plates and aiding investigations when crimes are committed using vehicles.