As a fresh registration period nears, the DVLA has moved to block a substantial number of combinations. Around 400 number plates were restricted in the latest update, days before the new series hits forecourts and showrooms across the UK.
What the new “76” registration means for drivers
From Tuesday 1 September 2026, new cars will wear the “76” identifier on plates. That sequence covers vehicles registered between 1 September 2026 and 28 February 2027.
This is the second change in 2026, following the spring rollout of the “26” registration. Motorists typically notice the update once brand-new cars appear on roads and forecourts.
How and why the DVLA bans certain registrations
The vetting process explained
Before any registration list is released, the DVLA examines thousands of letter-number combinations. The aim is to spot anything that could be offensive, inflammatory or otherwise unsuitable for public display.
Industry experts say this is a long-established routine that prevents potentially problematic registrations from being issued. The checks cover obvious slurs and abbreviations as well as combinations that may be inadvertently offensive.
Past and recent examples of blocked plates
- TE26 ROR — removed in a previous update.
- GO26 WAR — blocked because it could be read as supporting conflict.
- JE26 HAD — rejected due to resemblance to the word “Jihad”.
- Several other combinations linked to the Russia–Ukraine war and the Israel–Palestine conflict were also withheld.
These examples show the range of reasons for rejection: direct slurs, references to violence, or even accidental likeness to extremist terms.
Understanding UK registration format and region codes
UK plates follow a clear three-part structure.
- Two letters: indicate the local DVLA office or the region where the vehicle was first registered.
- Two numbers: show the registration period (for example, “76” for late 2026 registrations).
- Three letters: assigned at random to make each plate unique.
Examples of region letters include B for Birmingham and L for London. The system balances geographic coding with a simple date marker and a random suffix.
Personalised plates: demand, rules and record prices
Drivers can still buy personalised registrations, but these are vetted too. The DVLA screens those custom plates before sale to ensure they don’t breach standards.
Some private registrations fetch high sums at auction. In July, a plate listed as “97 O” sold for £90,010, despite a starting bid of just £2,500.
- Personalised plates remain popular for uniqueness and status.
- All customised combinations are checked before being issued or approved for sale.
What motorists should keep in mind
The DVLA’s review is designed to protect drivers and the public. By removing likely offensive combinations, the agency aims to keep registrations suitable for everyday display.
Behind each new release is a team scouring options to reduce the risk of controversy before plates reach showrooms and roads.
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