Can I Keep My Number Plate When Selling My Car in the UAE?

Can I Keep My Number Plate When I Sell My Car in the UAE?

If you’ve lived in the UAE long enough, you already know that car number plates are more than just random digits—they’re part of your identity. Some people see them as a lucky charm, others as a personal brand, and for many, especially in Dubai, certain plates are valuable assets worth holding onto.

So, what happens when you decide to sell your car? Can you keep your number plate, or does it have to go with the vehicle? Let’s break it down.

Yes, You Can Keep Your Number Plate

The good news is that in the UAE, you don’t have to give up your cherished number plate when selling your car. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) allows you to transfer your plate to another vehicle you own—or even keep it reserved for future use.

This means you can sell your car but hold onto the plate, whether it’s a special number you bought at auction or just one you’ve grown attached to.

How the Process Works

Here’s what you need to know if you want to keep your plate:

1. Visit the RTA (or relevant emirate’s traffic department): You’ll need to request a plate retention service.
2. Pay the applicable fees: The cost is usually modest compared to the value of keeping a desirable plate.
3. Choose your option:
   • Transfer it immediately to another vehicle you own.
   • Keep it reserved under your name until you’re ready to assign it again.

It’s a straightforward process, but make sure you handle it before completing the sale of your car to avoid complications.

Why People Keep Their Plates

• Investment value: Unique plates often appreciate over time, especially low-digit or memorable numbers.
• Personal attachment: Many drivers in Dubai treat their plates as part of their lifestyle or identity.
• Convenience: If you’re upgrading to a new car, keeping your old plate makes the transition smoother.

Final Thoughts

Selling your car in Dubai doesn’t mean saying goodbye to your number plate. Whether it’s sentimental, stylish, or simply valuable, you can retain it through the RTA and transfer it when the time is right.

At Auto Trader UAE, we know how important these details are when buying or selling used cars in Dubai. That’s why we make the process as smooth as possible—so you can focus on what matters most, whether it’s your next car or your favorite number plate.