Prefix Number Plates

What Are Prefix Number Plates?

Prefix number plates were issued in the UK between August 1983 and August 2001. They follow the format of a single letter (indicating the year of registration) followed by one to three numbers and a three-letter area code — for example, M123 ABC.

The year letter started at A (1983) and ran through to Y (2001), with letters I, O, U, and Z omitted to avoid confusion. New letters were introduced each August, making it easy to identify a vehicle's age from the plate.

Why Choose a Prefix Plate?

Prefix plates offer excellent value for personalised registrations. Many combinations can spell out names, words, or initials at a fraction of the cost of dateless plates. Their familiar format is instantly recognisable to UK drivers.

Because the year letter comes first, prefix plates can be placed on any vehicle registered on or after the plate's year — meaning an M-prefix plate (1995) can go on any vehicle from 1995 onwards.

Find Your Prefix Plate

Use MONIKR's intelligent scoring to find the best prefix registrations. Each plate is analysed for pattern quality, readability, and value — helping you find a plate that stands out without overpaying.