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Change from GB to UK for driving abroad

Car Number Plates
Car Number Plates

What's changed?

On 28 September 2021, the national identifier displayed on vehicles registered in the United Kingdom when driven abroad changed from GB to UK.

What do i need to know?

There is no requirement for vehicle keepers to change their number plates

Customers can still choose to purchase number plates which display a national flag of England, Scotland or Wales with accompanying letters

Although it is still permissible to display the letters GB on a number plate customers should be offered UK and the Union flag as this ensures their vehicle is compliant with international road traffic rules

Customers choosing other options (for example, ENG) should be made aware that they will need to apply a separate UK sticker when travelling abroad.

Check out our range of number plate designs here Car Number Plates

UK Style Car Number Plates
UK Style Car Number Plates

Driving outside the UK?


If your number plate includes the UK identifier with the Union flag (also known as the Union Jack), you do not need a UK sticker.

However, you will need to display a UK sticker clearly on the rear of your vehicle if your number plate has any of the following:

A GB identifier with the Union flag
A Euro symbol
A national flag of England, Scotland or Wales
Numbers and letters only - no flag or identifier


If you’re in Spain, Cyprus or Malta, you must display a UK sticker no matter what is on your number plate.

If you have a GB sticker, cover or remove it before driving outside the UK.

You do not need a UK sticker or number plate to drive in Ireland.

Click here to purchase a UK ID Sticker

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