DVLA bans new car number plates in 2025 for offensive content
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has recently unveiled a list of prohibited car registration plates for 2025, citing them as potentially offensive, distressing, or provocative. The DVLA reviews and restricts certain number plate combinations each year to prevent the display of inappropriate content on UK roads. These combinations may include insults, swear words, sexual references, references to drugs, as well as racial, sexist, LGBTQ+, political, and religious connotations.
Each year, a new series of registration numbers is released for use on the roads, with the 25 series set to be the first in 2025, available from March 1. The subsequent 75 series will become available in September 2025. The DVLA shared this information with private plate supplier Regtransfers through a Freedom of Information Act request. Some of the banned number plates for 2025 include **25 HAT, **25 LAG, **25 LUT, **25 PAS, **25 UKR, AR25 WAR, and EU25 WAR.
Mark Trimbee, CEO of Regtransfers, commented on the list, highlighting the importance of preventing harmful messages from being displayed through personalised number plates. He stated that while some combinations may seem harmless initially, upon further reflection, they could convey offensive sentiments. Trimbee emphasised the balancing act of determining which plates to ban to ensure they do not promote harmful messages or viewpoints.
The DVLA’s annual review considers various factors to determine which number plate combinations should be banned. This process aims to uphold standards of decency and prevent the dissemination of offensive content through vehicle registration plates. While personalised number plates allow for self-expression, they must not be used to convey messages that could cause distress or provoke negative reactions.
Trimbee also noted that while it can be entertaining to see which plates are deemed inappropriate by the DVLA, there are instances where the restrictions are necessary to maintain societal standards. In addition to overt references to sex and violence, subtle combinations such as GB25 BAD, GB25 BOM, and GB25 SHT could be interpreted as conveying anti-British sentiments, potentially offending certain individuals.
Personalised number plates remain a popular choice for vehicle owners seeking unique identifiers for their cars. However, it is essential to ensure that these plates comply with regulations and do not contain offensive or contentious content. The DVLA’s proactive approach to reviewing and banning inappropriate number plate combinations helps promote a respectful and inclusive driving environment on UK roads.
Maintaining standards of decency and preventing the spread of offensive messages through number plates aligns with the DVLA’s commitment to upholding societal values. By restricting certain combinations deemed unsuitable for display, the DVLA plays a crucial role in ensuring that personalised number plates reflect positivity and respect while driving on UK roads.