As the UK’s biannual vehicle registration update approaches, the DVLA is taking no risks. Ahead of the new “75” number plate series, launching on September 1, 2025, the agency has proactively banned hundreds of potentially offensive or controversial registration combinations.
This initiative aims to keep roadways free of rude, politically charged, or inappropriate license plates and underscores the DVLA’s commitment to maintaining public standards.
The New “75” Number Plate Series
Every March and September, the UK introduces a new registration identifier. In March 2025, the “25” plates were introduced, followed by the “75” series on September 1—a trend most commonly affecting new and nearly-new vehicles.
These updates often trigger buying surges as consumers seek the freshest registrations.
Why the DVLA Is Banning Certain Plates
The DVLA can block any plate combination deemed offensive, embarrassing, or controversial. With the “75” format—including letters that can resemble numbers—there’s a risk of unintentional or purposeful formation of offensive words.
The DVLA is anticipating issues by removing more than 600 combinations, including those referencing politics, sexual content, offensive language, or global conflicts.
What’s Banned and Why
| Reason for Ban | Examples of Banned Plates |
|---|---|
| Offensive or rude language | “BO75 OCK,” “AS75 GAY,” “DR75 NKY” |
| Sexual or suggestive content | “AR75 RSE,” “SH75 TTY” |
| Political references (e.g., wars) | “EU75 WAR,” previously “25 UKR / 25 RUS” |
| Criminal or violent allusions | “LE75 KLL,” “AU75 WTS / WTZ” |
These combinations are filtered out before they reach the public to avoid remedial backlash and protect resale values.
Impact and Legal Implications
- Motorists: Trying to display a banned or altered plate can result in a £1,000 fine, an MOT failure, or vehicle seizure.
- Policy Enforcement: The DVLA screens new plates twice a year and will confiscate plates that contravene its standards.
- Commercial & Personal Use: Custom registrations, whether purchased via DVLA or auctions, must comply with the same filtering rules.
Auctions & Safe Plate Options
The DVLA also auctions reserved plates with unique combinations. Popular registrations such as GR75 AMG or RO75 COE are fully legal and often highly desirable. The next auction runs from September 3 to 9, featuring plates like “252 A” and “1874 A,” each starting at £2,500.
Ahead of the September 2025 plate update, the DVLA’s robust screening and banning of inappropriate “75” combinations underscore its policy of “taking no chances.” Motorists are reminded to request or design plates carefully—only approved combinations are legal.
Whether purchasing a standard or personalized plate, ensuring it’s free of provocative or offensive content means avoiding fines and protecting your vehicle’s legality and value.
FAQs
Why were certain “75” plates banned?
The DVLA banned more than 600 plate combinations this year—including references to sexual content, war, and offensive phrases—to uphold public decency and maintain brand reputation.
What penalties could I face for using a banned plate?
Displaying a banned plate could result in a £1,000 fine, MOT failure, or even vehicle seizure due to non-compliance with registration rules.
Can I still buy personalized plates?
Yes—personalized plates are still available via DVLA or auctions, but they must comply with the same standards and pass the DVLA’s filtering process to be approved.