Interest in personalised licence plates remains strong with UK drivers, allowing them to express their individuality and interests. This trend ensures a thriving market for buying and selling these unique identifiers, with some fetching high prices at auctions.

Research from gap insurance provider, ALA Insurance, highlights the top 10 most expensive plates sold via DVLA auctions throughout 2024 and which of the UK’s most popular names command the highest priced plates.

Top 10 Most Expensive Personalised Plates (DVLA Auctions 2024)

  1. L1 BYA: £102,800

  2. 1 WLK: £93,825

  3. 47 O: £89,973

  4. 2 FU: £74,565

  5. 11 RM: £55,305

  6. 8 XN: £54,021

  7. 911 FUN: £54,011

  8. KUR 1D: £51,453

  9. 1 OOG: £46,959

  10. NA74 SHA: £45,033

These figures represent the highest prices among over 18,000 listings sold at DVLA auctions throughout 2024. Buyers spent a total of £56,036,286 on personalised plates, raising £52,204,648 for the UK Treasury.

The DVLA auction is a platform where the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency sells unique and desirable licence plates to the highest bidder. Held multiple times a year, these auctions attract collectors, enthusiasts, and drivers looking to add a personalised touch to their vehicles. Proceeds from the auctions contribute directly to the UK Treasury, making it a win-win for buyers and the public sector.

For those seeking a personalised nameplate, the cost can vary significantly depending on demand.

ALA’s research revealed that some of the UK’s most popular names command notably higher prices.

Plate Prices for the UK’s Most Popular Names

  1. Amelia: Average plate price of £23,934
    e.g. AM23 LIA, M11 LLY

  2. George: Average plate price of £23,252
    e.g. GO13 RGE, GEO 226E

  3. Oliver: Average plate price of £16,533
    e.g. OLL 113R, OL16 VER

  4. Leo: Average plate price of £14,033
    e.g. 111 LEO, LEO 1L

  5. Freya: Average plate price of £11,361
    e.g. FRE 74S, F23 YYA

  6. Isla: Average plate price of £9,895
    e.g. 15 LAP, BY15 SLA

  7. Theodore: Average plate price of £9,377
    e.g. THE 60V, TH04 EOH

  8. Henry: Average plate price of £8,970
    e.g. H311 NRY, H32 NRY

  9. Noah: Average plate price of £7,401
    e.g. NOA 111H, NOA 41H

  10. Olivia: Average plate price of £6,436
    e.g. OL72 VYA, OL17 YAZ

Leana Dennis from ALA commented: “Personalised plates remain a cherished way for drivers to make their vehicles stand out, but they come at a premium—especially for names in high demand. Buyers should carefully consider the financial investment, balancing personal value with the significant costs involved as well as making sure everything is properly insured.”

Personalised registration plates are seen as a status symbol and often serve as a unique identifier for car enthusiasts. Their value often increases over time, particularly for rare combinations of single-digit plates. DVLA auctions have become a key venue for enthusiasts, investors, and everyday drivers looking to secure exclusive plates.

If you’re considering purchasing a personalised plate, here are some key tips to bear in mind:

  • Set a Budget: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of an auction. Determine your spending limit in advance.

  • Research Market Trends: Popular names and rare combinations often fetch higher prices. Check historical auction results to gauge value.

  • Understand Transfer Costs: Beyond the hammer price, remember to account for transfer fees and any additional charges.