What Car? Q&A - Can I request letters for a number plate

Q: Other than shelling out for a personalised number, is there any way I can control or request particular letters or numbers in a registration plate for a new car?
Lillian Edwards

You have some control over the first two letters of a registration plate - the final set of three letters are randomly generated, with rude or insulting combinations discarded

Here's how to do it, but bear in mind that the process could involve a lot of hassle and the results aren't guaranteed.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing (DVLA) offices around the country, which issue registrations, are given different letter codes called local memory tags.

These 'local memory tags' make up the first two letters of the plate, ranging from AA in Bournemouth to YY in central London. Click here for a full list.

To try and get your 'LE' initials on your number plate you'd have to register your car in Wimbledon - not very convenient if you live in Worcester.

Certain combinations of letters prove popular - AA and GO (Maidstone) for instance - so the DVLA says it can't guarantee to issue a registration with a local offices' tags in case it gets swamped.

You should be okay with LE, but you'll still have to travel down clutching various bits and bobs including proof of identity and address, the DVLA's V55/4 form, certificate of insurance, evidence from the dealership that the car is new and enough money to cover the £38 first registration fee and at least six months of vehicle excise duty.

Then wait up to six weeks for the DVLA to send you a registration number and tax disc. Take this documentation to an authorised number plate outlet and you've got your plates..

All-in-all, you might choose to succumb to the DVLA's money-spinning personalised number plate here.You can enter numbers and letters to see the plate on a car and find a price. Prices start at £80 but quickly rise.