Electric vehicles (EVs) are everywhere. Whether you're a seasoned EV driver or just thinking about making the switch, you’ve probably noticed a small block of green on some number plates. That’s not just a stylish design choice—it’s a green number plate, and it marks a car as fully electric.
Green plates are part of a government push to raise awareness of zero-emission vehicles. They may even lead to future perks, like parking discounts or congestion charge exemptions. If you're an EV owner (or soon-to-be one), here’s your ultimate guide to DVLA number plates—what they mean, how to get one, and why they matter.
We’re committed to supporting the growing EV community, so we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to tell you everything you need to know about DVLA number plates. Let's explore!
What are green number plates?
Green number plates, officially designated as "zero emission vehicle" plates, are just like regular UK plates, but with a distinctive green section on the left-hand side. They were introduced in 2020 to help highlight zero-emission vehicles and encourage more people to go electric.
They don’t come with automatic benefits (yet), but local councils and organisations may offer incentives for green plate holders, such as access to low-emission zones or cheaper parking in the future.
What’s the eligibility criteria for green number plates?
Not every eco-friendly car qualifies for a green number plate. So here’s what you need to know:
Your vehicle must be 100% zero-emission at the tailpipe. That means battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) are eligible.
Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and mild hybrids don’t currently qualify. That’s because even though they use electricity, they still emit CO₂ when running on fuel.
Green plates are available for cars, vans, buses, and motorbikes—as long as they meet the zero-emission rule.
There are some misconceptions around eligibility, so if you're unsure, contact the DVLA, or check your V5C logbook.
How to apply for a green number plate from the DVLA.
Gearing yourself up for a green plate? Here's a step-by-step guide to applying for a green number plate through the DVLA:
If you’re buying a brand-new EV. Ask your dealership to add new green plates when registering your new vehicle.
If you already own a zero-emission vehicle. You’re ready to replace your existing license plates with green ones.
Order from a registered supplier. Green plates are available through the DVLA, and verified number plate sellers.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Your V5C logbook (to prove the vehicle is registered in your name).
A valid ID (such as a driving licence or passport).
The whole process is like replacing standard number plates, but if you’re unsure where to buy one, you can find a list of DVLA-approved suppliers online. The waiting time for getting your new plates can vary, so do be patient. Luckily the DVLA website will provide you with an idea of estimated timelines.
Third-party suppliers of green number plates.
You can actually purchase green number plates from third-party suppliers, you don’t have to go through the DVLA to get one. Just make sure they're reputable, registered with the DVLA, and that the plates they supply meet all legal specifications, for example - made to British Standards (BS AU 145e) for font, spacing, and visibility. Some suppliers may even offer customisation options, but the plate must still follow the DVLA rules.
What are the benefits of displaying a green number plate?
Green number plates do more than just make your car look unique on the road. Here’s why they’re worth considering:
Show your EV pride! Green plates highlight your commitment to cleaner driving, and environmental kudos.
Potential future perks. Some local authorities may soon offer incentives like free parking or reduced congestion charges.
Encourages EV adoption. The more green plates people see on the road, the more visible the EV movement becomes!
While there aren’t official country-wide perks just yet, it’s predicted that councils may soon be exploring new ways to support green plate drivers such as incentives, like parking discounts or congestion charge exemptions.
What is the cost of green number plates?
The cost of obtaining green number plates varies depending on whether you apply through the DVLA or a third-party supplier. The DVLA charges a standard fee, while prices from third-party suppliers may vary. Ensure you check both options to find the best price for your needs.
Fitting your green number plates.
Fitting your new green number plates is pretty straightforward. First ensure the plates are securely attached using appropriate screws or adhesive pads. Follow the DVLA guidelines to position them correctly at the front and rear of your vehicle. Proper fitting is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure your plates are easily visible.
The rise of EVs and green number plates: A look at the data.
EV ownership is accelerating, and the numbers are there to prove it. According to recent data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), electric vehicles (EVs) have experienced a significant surge in popularity. In 2024 alone, new car registrations for EVs hit a record market share of 19.6%, with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) alone making up a considerable portion of this figure. However, despite this progress, private consumer demand for EVs has dropped to levels reminiscent of the pandemic, with only one in ten private buyers opting for electric in 2024. This decline highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving broader adoption without additional government support.
Interestingly, while pure petrol and diesel car registrations fell by 4.4% and 13.6% respectively, hybrid electric vehicles saw a 9.6% increase, and plug-in hybrids jumped by 18.3%. As the EV market continues to grow, green number plates are becoming more prevalent, symbolising the shift towards sustainable transportation and potentially paving the way for future incentives and benefits for zero-emission vehicle owners.
Charging your EV at home: The perfect partnership with your green plates.
What goes better with a green number plate than the convenience of charging your EV at home? Charging your EV at home is an easy and cost-effective solution that complements the benefits of having a green number plate. Home charging allows you to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates, making it more affordable than public charging stations. By installing a home EV charger, you ensure that your vehicle is always ready to go with a full charge.
We make home charging simple. With our EV charger installation service, you can:
Charge your EV overnight and wake up to a full battery.
Enjoy cost-effective charging with an off-peak EV tariff designed for EV drivers.
Get expert installation with our trusted team of specialists.
Want to know more? Check out our EV charging solutions and see how we can help you make the most of your EV.