From September 1 new cars will be issued with rude number plates as standard.
That’s because the year identifier for 2019 is about to change to “69”, and will stay like that for six months.
However, rather than be put off, 31% of Brits are positively eager to have their car emblazoned with the naughtiest number of all.
“The ‘69’ registration plates have inspired the cheekier motorists amongst us into thinking it might be time to invest in new wheels,” said Vix Leyton, motoring expert at carwow , who conducted the research.
Of course, not quite everyone was thrilled, with around 20% of the public saying they would rather wait until March than have to live with one with a risqué plate.
(Image: Getty Images)
But rather than avoid controversy, a lot of drivers actively seek out racier plates.
In fact, getting something a bit cheeky was the most common reason people said they’ve got a personalised plate in the past.
People in the North West were most likely to choose something controversial when deciding on a personalised plate, while those in the North East were least likely, carwow found.
Overall, 42% of people said they had paid for a vanity plate in the past.
“People are always looking at ways to personalise their car, with modern young drivers seeing their car as an extension of who they are and a reflection of their status, so it’s no surprise to see how many vanity plates are on the road,” Leyton said.
(Image: DVLA)
And there are plenty of interesting options thrown up by the new numbers – many of which have been released for purchase by the public – although not quite all of them.
A DVLA spokesperson said: “The vast majority of registration numbers are made available but the Agency holds back any combinations that may cause offence, embarrassment or are in poor taste.
“Many people enjoy displaying a personalised registration number and there are over 50 million registrations available on our website, with almost endless possibilities of combinations to suit a person’s taste, interests and budget.”
Perhaps the raciest that’s been allowed to go on sale is “BJ69 HED”, although “ME69 PSE” and “BG69 WLY” run it close.
Leyton said: “Considering there are strict guidelines around what number plate combinations are and aren’t approved, with swear words and saucy acts all previously banned by the DVLA, some of the plates you can get away with if you’re willing to be creative might surprise you, and the new numbers certainly give drivers something to work with!”
