These numbers are referred to as ‘age identifiers’, and are updated every six months. March marks the beginning of a new six-month period for the motoring industry, during which time new registration plates will be identified with the number ‘23’. From September 2023, these will update to ‘73’.

What do number plates mean?

As mentioned, new number plates are introduced every six months. They’re designed to indicate a vehicle’s age, as well as the location where the vehicle was registered.

The first two letters of a number plate indicate the region of the car’s registration.

The following two numbers represent exactly when the car was registered. Vehicles registered from March 2023 to September 2023 will have the number ’23’ at this point in their new plates. This age identifier updates every six months.

The final three letters in the number plate are randomly generated.

Why do you need a number plate?

Number plates indicate the age of a vehicle, as well as its first region of registration – as such, they are unique to each vehicle.

Beyond that, number plates are legally required by the DVLA. There are also specific rules around the font, font size, colour, and letter placement on number plates. Failure to follow these rules, or to display a numberplate in the first instance, can result in a hefty fine (up to £1000) – and the vehicle will fail its MOT.

Finance your new vehicle with My Car Credit

If you’re looking for a way to finance a car with new number plates, car finance can make the process more affordable – get a car loan quote today.