Caravan Number Plates: UK Rules and How to Order a Replacement
Caravan number plates must show the registration of the vehicle towing the caravan. Whether you are collecting your first caravan, changing your tow car or preparing for a weekend away, checking the rear plate is a simple job to do before departure.
This guide explains which registration to order, what to check after winter storage and how to get a replacement ready for your next trip.
Which number plate does a caravan need?
For ordinary UK towing, the caravan needs a rear plate matching the towing vehicle’s current registration. If your car displays NP55 NPS, your caravan should display NP55 NPS too. This requirement is set out in the GOV.UK guidance on trailers and towing equipment.
The plate fitted by a previous owner may be wrong for your car. Before collecting a second-hand caravan, ask how its plate is attached and arrange your matching replacement in advance.
Changing cars or borrowing a caravan
Check the caravan plate whenever you change tow vehicles. The same applies if you borrow a caravan from family or friends, or change the registration assigned to your car. Keep any spare plates clearly labelled so you can quickly choose the right one.
A caravan’s identification or chassis number is different from the registration displayed on its rear number plate. When ordering a matching towing plate, enter your car’s registration.
What should a caravan number plate look like?
A replacement rear plate should have black characters on a reflective yellow background, with the required character size and spacing. It must carry supplier identification and the applicable British Standard marking. For newly fitted plates, that standard is BS AU 145e. Do not change the spacing to create a word or use a handwritten substitute. Read the official number plate rules for the full requirements.
Number Plate Supply offers flat printed plates in the standard rectangular 520 mm × 111 mm size. Measure your caravan’s plate holder or mounting area before ordering; a caravan that requires a different shape or size may need another option.
Check your caravan plate after winter storage
When uncovering your caravan for its first trip of the season, take a close look at the rear plate. Clean away dirt, then check for cracks, lifting layers, fading and loose fixings. A plate can look fine from a distance while damage is starting around a screw hole or edge.
- Compare every character with the registration on your tow car.
- Make sure the plate is firmly attached and easy to read.
- Check that a bike rack, cover or luggage does not obscure it.
- Check the rear lights and number plate illumination before departure.
If the surface is separating, our guide to damaged number plates explains what to look for. Replace a damaged plate before relying on it for your holiday.
What documents do you need?
An additional plate for a caravan still requires the supplier’s document checks. You need evidence of your identity and entitlement to use the towing vehicle’s registration, such as appropriate identification and the vehicle’s V5C. GOV.UK says suppliers must see original documents; check its accepted documents list and the supplier’s verification process before ordering.
Our number plate documents guide helps you prepare. Allow time for verification as well as production and delivery.
How to order a replacement caravan number plate
- Check the registration currently assigned to the car that will tow the caravan.
- Measure the mounting space and confirm a 520 mm × 111 mm plate will fit.
- Choose a yellow rear number plate and enter the registration carefully.
- Complete the required document checks and choose your delivery option.
- Fit the plate securely and check it again before setting off.
Check our delivery information for current options before planning around a departure date.
Caravan number plate FAQs
Do I need to buy a pair?
If you only need a replacement for the back of your caravan, choose a single yellow rear plate. Check your tow car’s plates separately.
Can I use the same plate with two different tow cars?
Only when it matches the registration of the vehicle doing the towing. If your cars have different registrations, you need the appropriate matching plate for each journey.
What about taking a caravan abroad?
Check the current requirements for your destination and route before travelling. International trailer registration and vehicle identification rules can involve additional requirements; this article focuses on ordinary UK towing.
Get your caravan ready for the next trip
Check the registration, confirm the size and order your replacement in time to fit it before you leave.
Buy your new number plates now
Guidance checked against GOV.UK on 6 November 2026.
