DVLA's private plate sales reached £1.2 billion

The DVLA has generated nearly £1.2 billion from selling over 2.5 million private number plates in the past five years. This amount is nearly a third higher than the £347 million earned from 2015 to 2019. Prices for these plates start at £250, with some rare ones selling for up to £500,000 at auctions. The increase in sales is attributed to a rise in interest during the COVID-19 pandemic. Factors contributing to this trend include a stable transfer fee of £80 and the availability of retention certificates, making it easier for collectors to own private plates.