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Fulfilling the desire to retain a vehicle's registration number for future use, even when the vehicle itself is sold or off the road, is made possible through the V778 form. Known formally as the Retention of a Vehicle Registration Number, this procedure allows vehicle keepers to hold onto a cherished registration number for a period of up to 12 months, with the possibility to extend this period if the number is not assigned within this timeframe. Crucially, if the retention rights expire without the number being assigned, the keeper loses entitlement to it. The eligibility to apply hinges on being the keeper of the vehicle which the registration number is originally assigned to. Also notable is the provision that allows the retention of a number even if the vehicle is not currently licensed, subject to specific conditions. For those looking to assign the retained number to another vehicle, whether their own or a nominee's, the process is detailed within the form instructions, including associated fees and documentation requirements. Importantly, the scheme ensures that the number can only be transferred to a vehicle of equivalent age or newer, to prevent misleading representations of a vehicle's age. In essence, the V778 form serves as a critical tool for those looking to preserve the identity or legacy of their cherished vehicles through their registration numbers, while adhering to the DVLA guidelines.

Preview - V778 Form

Retention of a

Vehicle Registration Number

V778/ 1

 

For m ore inform ation go to: w w w .direct.gov.uk/ motoring

 

 

 

 

 

Notes for Guidance – Please read carefully.

This leaflet explains how to place a vehicle registration number onto retention. Before you complete the application form please read these notes very carefully. You are also advised to read the Agency’s information booklet INF46 “Registration Numbers and You” available from your DVLA local office (for the address see note D) and DVLA, Swansea.

AWhat is the Retention Scheme?

¥Vehicle licence disc Ð but do not enclose it with this application it will be requested at a later date. Instead, fill in the Òvehicle licence disc expiry date and serial numberÓ in Section 1 of the attached application form. If the licence disc was taken out at a Post Office¨ branch within the last 2 weeks, please enclose a photocopy of the disc with your application in case the DVLA record has not been updated with the details. Do not apply for a refund of vehicle excise duty while your application is being considered, if you do, your application could be cancelled.

The Retention Scheme enables a keeper of a vehicle to temporarily hold its registration number apart from the vehicle for up to 12 months pending its assignment to another vehicle. If the number is not assigned to another vehicle within the 12 months, further 12 month periods of entitlement may be purchased (see note K). IMPORTANT: If the number is not assigned to a vehicle within the 12 month period and the retention rights are allowed to expire, entitlement to the number will be lost.

BWho can apply to retain a registration number?

Registration numbers are assigned to vehicles. An individual acquires entitlement to move a vehicleÕs number through being the keeper (who may not necessarily be the owner) of that vehicle. If you have newly acquired a vehicle and it is not yet registered in your name you may still be able to apply (see note E). Vehicles taking part in the scheme must be in existence and registered at DVLA. Vehicles must also be available for inspection, be of a type that requires an annual roadworthiness test and be currently licensed (but see note E).

C

Can I assign a retained number to someone

else’s vehicle?

 

 

 

Yes. A right of retention allows you to assign the number to someone elseÕs vehicle but you must tell us in advance who that person (the nominee) is, so that we can include their name on your V778 Retention Document. You can provide your nominee's details now by completing Section 3

on the attached application form. Alternatively, you can add or change nominee details after you receive your Retention Document from DVLA (but BEFORE it expires) in which case you will be charged a £25 fee. Important: Having a nominee places you under no obligation to assign the number to their vehicle. Only you, the grantee, can decide whose vehicle is to receive the number. T he nominee has no rights to the number under the retention arrangements.

Note: If the vehicle donating the number is not currently licensed, you may still be able to apply to retain its number without renewing the licence. If the vehicle licence expired no more than 12 months prior to the date of this application, or if the donor vehicle is not yet old enough to be tested (up to 3 years old for cars or 1 year for HGVÕs) you should be aware that in these cases, it is likely that the local office will wish to inspect your vehicle (see note F). The concession will only apply if a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) has been made. There must be no break between the expiry date of the licence and the commencement of the SORN. SORN can be made by completing form V890 available from local offices and DVLA, Swansea, or for download from www.direct.gov.uk/motoring.

¥V10 or V85 vehicle licence application (if the vehicle needs to be re-licensed) accompanied by a certificate of motor insurance or a cover note and the appropriate vehicle excise duty.

¥The current fee (£105 at the time of printing). T his represents the £25 retention fee and the £80 assignment fee. If you are paying by cheque, the drawerÕs full name and address and the registration number of the vehicle must be printed clearly on the back of the cheque. In the event that a refund of the fee is necessary, the refund will be paid to the name and address printed on the back of the cheque. Cheques should be made payable to ÒDVLA, SwanseaÓ. Please note that the £25 fee may be retained whether or not retention of the registration number is granted.

Please Note: Northern Ireland vehicles simultaneously being registered in GB and taking part in a retention application will be subject to Identity Checking. Further Information is available in leaflet INF148 ÒRegistering and Licensing your vehicle using V55/4 or V55/5Ó, which is available for download from www.direct.gov.uk/motoring or by contacting your nearest DVLA local office (for the address see note D).

DHow and where do I apply?

You must complete the attached form V778/1 and take or send it to a DVLAlocal office with the appropriate supporting documents(seenoteE). T he address of your nearest DVLA local office can be found:

¥On the website www.direct.gov.uk/motoring

¥In our booklet V100 available from all Post Office¨ branches

¥By calling 08702 430444 but you will be asked to provide your postcode

You may also be able obtain the address from T he Phone Book under ÔDriving and Vehicles (Vehicle Registration and Licensing).Õ DVLA local offices are open 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday and 9.30am to 5.00pm on the second Wednesday of each month.

DO NOT SEND YOUR APPLICATION TO DVLA, SWANSEA.

EWhat documents do I need to produce with my application?

Please note only original documentation will be accepted.

¥Registration Document/Certificate (V5/V5C) showing you as the vehicleÕs registered keeper. If you have only recently acquired the vehicle and it is not yet registered in your name you may still apply if you have the V5 or V5C with the keeper change section completed. If you have only the V5/2 or V5C/2 portion, you may use this (if it has not already been used in a transfer/retention or assignment application) but you will also need to complete form V62 (application for a Registration Certificate) available for download from www.direct.gov.uk/motoring and from DVLA local offices and Post Office¨ branches.

¥Test certificate (MoT/HGV) if the vehicle requires one.

Note: Although the vehicle may not be old enough to need a test certificate, it must belong to a class that requires testing. If a vehicle is of a type that does not normally require testing, such as a milk float or agricultural machine, then it cannot take part in the retention scheme.

FWhat happens next?

The DVLA local office may wish to inspect the vehicle. If so, you will be advised of the date and location of the inspection. The purpose of the inspection is to verify the vehicleÕs entitlement to the registration number by checking its particulars against those held on record. The inspection officer will need to look at the stamped-in Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the chassis plate. You must ensure that these are cleaned sufficiently to make them legible. The local office may, on occasion, seek assistance from police vehicle examiners to aid this process. If the identity of the vehicle is in doubt, the retention application will be refused and the vehicle may need to be re-registered under a ÔQÕ prefix registration number (the local office will explain if this happens). Note: If a vehicle that is called for inspection is unlicensed or does not have a valid MoT certificate, it must not be used on public roads. You will need to make arrangements to have it transported to the place of inspection.

Once the local office has checked that the application is in order, the vehicle will be issued with a replacement disc (if appropriate) showing its new registration number and the application will be passed to DVLA, Swansea for processing. When you receive the replacement disc the old disc will become void and must be returned to the DVLA local office for cancellation. No refund of duty will be paid on the void licence. You will not receive your Retention Document until your application has been finally approved by DVLA, Swansea.

Important: If the vehicle is broken-up or destroyed before your application has been finally approved by DVLA, Swansea, the number will be lost. If the vehicle is sold on before your application has been finally approved by DVLA, Swansea, entitlement to the number will pass to the new keeper.

4/06

G

What replacement registration number will

be given to the vehicle?

 

 

 

The vehicle will be allocated a replacement number appropriate to its age.

Note: Wherever possible, the vehicle will be re-united with the number it gave up as a result of a previous transfer or assignment. Vehicles that were first registered before 1963 will be allocated a replacement number that does not contain a year identifier and it may not reflect the date the vehicle was first registered. In both these circumstances the replacement number will be allocated on a non-transferable basis. This means that you will not be able to transfer it or put it onto retention at a later date. The vehicle will, however, be able to receive a number in a future transfer or assignment.

HWhen will I receive the new documentation?

T he DVLA local office will pass your application to DVLA, Swansea, for approval. If your application is successful you will be granted a right of retention under the provisions of the Retention of Registration Marks Regulations 1993 (as amended). You will receive a V778 Retention Document valid for 12 months from the date of retention.

You will also receive a V5C Registration Certificate for the vehicle under its replacement registration number. (Do not dispose of the vehicle

until you receive this document or the retention application may be cancelled.)

T hese documents will be despatched from DVLA, Swansea separately and should normally arrive within 4 weeks of receiving your confirmation letter from the local office. However, if a V62 was used to support your application, it may take up to 8 weeks. If you do not receive your new documents by then you should write to the Cherished Transfer Section, Unit 1B, DVLA, Swansea Vale, SA99 1BW or phone Customer Enquiries (Vehicles) on 0870 240 0010. Phone between 8.00am and 8.30pm Monday Ð Friday and between 8.00am and 5.30pm Saturday. Some calls will be monitored for quality and training purposes. Customers with impaired hearing who have a textphone/minicom should phone 01792 766426 for vehicle enquiries. You should be aware that the minicom number will not respond to ordinary telephones. Alternatively you can email DVLA at vehicles.dvla@gtnet.gov.uk

I

What if I need to add or change nominee

details in the future?

 

 

 

You can apply by completing the appropriate section of the V778 Retention Document (the procedure is fully explained on that document).

Only the grantee can apply to add or change nominee details.

JHow do I assign a retained number to a vehicle?

When you are ready to put the number onto your vehicle, or that of a nominee named on your V778 Retention Document, you should apply to your local office by completing the V778. (T he procedure is fully explained on that document).

K

What if I don’t assign the retained number

within the twelve month period?

 

Provided you do not allow your retention right to lapse by allowing the document to expire, you can apply for a further 12 month retention period. T he fee for a 12 month extension is £25. Applications can be made on the V778 Retention Document up to 28 days prior to expiry.

It is important to note that if you allow your retention right to

lapse you will lose entitlement to the number. If you do not want to extend the period or you choose not to assign the number you can apply for a refund of the £80 assignment fee. Application for a refund of the assignment fee can only be made after the retention period has expired. Applications should be sent to the Cherished Transfer Section, Unit 1B, DVLA, Swansea Vale, SA99 1BW.

L

My vehicle has been “written-off” can I still

apply to retain its number?

 

If your vehicle has been written-off, you may still be able to retain its number provided:- (a) your insurers have not disposed of the vehicle and are willing to give written authorisation for you to retain the number, (this authorisation should be obtained before you submit your application, and only the original letter will be accepted), (b) the vehicle is available for inspection and (c) the conditions of the transfer scheme are met.

MWhat if I want to assign the number held on my V750 Certificate of Entitlement to a vehicle?

If you wish to assign a number that you have purchased through the AgencyÕs Sale of Marks Scheme (V750 Certificate of Entitlement) to a vehicle and at the same time put that vehicleÕs existing number onto retention, you should complete this form as directed in note D . In addition to the documents mentioned in note E, you will need to submit your V750 Certificate of Entitlement with the application.

T he application will also need to be accompanied by the fee of £105 (as explained in note E) and, unless already paid at the time of purchase, an £80 assignment fee for the purchased number.

NAdditional Information

¥A right of retention is granted to the grantee alone and is not transferable. A nominee has no rights to the number on retention. T he Secretary of State may revoke a right of retention if there are any special reasons for doing so. Please read very carefully the declaration you are required to sign.

¥If the number being retained has an age identifier, you will not be able to assign it to a vehicle which is older than that number, thereby making that vehicle appear newer than is actually the case.

¥Not all registration numbers are transferable. The vehicle's Registration Document/Certificate (V5/V5C) will indicate when a number is non-transferable and you should check it before applying. Non-transferable registration numbers cannot be put onto retention. If you have any queries you should contact Customer Enquiries (Vehicles) Ð see note H for telephone number.

¥The DVLA local office may wish to inspect/re-inspect the vehicle. You should not dispose of the vehicle until the retention has finally been approved by DVLA, Swansea and you have received the vehicleÕs replacement Registration Certificate (V5C) showing its new number. If you dispose of the vehicle before then, the application may be cancelled and you could lose the number.

¥Vehicles with ÔQÕ or ÔNIQÕ prefix registration numbers cannot participate in the retention scheme.

¥Non-display of a licence disc on a vehicle being used or kept

on a public road is an offence. You should wait until you receive your replacement licence disc before surrendering the old one for cancellation.

¥It is an offence to misrepresent a registration number on a vehicle number plate. For more information see leaflet V796 available from local offices and DVLA, Swansea.

¥Please check the details shown on the V778 Retention Document and the vehicleÕs new Registration Certificate (V5C) as soon as you receive them. If the information contained on them is incorrect or if you have any queries regarding the retention application, you should write to the Cherished Transfer Section, Unit 1B, DVLA, Swansea Vale, SA99 1BW.

Application to Retain a Vehicle Registration Number

For m ore inform ation go to: w w w .direct.gov.uk/ motoring

Please read the attached notes for guidance carefully before you complete this form. Please use BLACK INK and CAPITAL LETTERS.

1

1

 

Vehicle details

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vehicle Registration Number

 

 

2

 

 

 

 

to be retained

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Details of vehicle which now carries this registration number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Make

 

Model

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIN/Chassis Number

Vehicle licence expiry date and serial number

2Keeper details (see note B)

Name and Address of vehicle keeper

Title or Company Name

Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms

Address

Postcode

Daytime Telephone Number

Home Telephone Number

3Nominee details (see note C)

NOTE: The nominee will have no rights to the retained number.

Title

Mr

 

Mrs

 

Miss

 

Ms

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

V778/ 1

Official Use Only

CD 3

Replacement Number

CD

4

5

Is Replacement Number Transferable Yes ■ No ■

Fee Paid By

■Donor

■Other

EPOS/R.V/

Gen II Number

Replacement Licence Serial Number

Other Title or

Company Name

Christian or Forename

10

DVLA Local Office Stamps

Date received

Date processed

Surname

11

 

4Details of where the vehicle is kept

The DVLA Local Office may wish to inspect the vehicle.

If it is not kept at the above address, state where it is kept.

Address

Postcode

Daytime Telephone Number

Please Turn Over

To be completed by CV only

V5 Ref. No.

 

DVLA Local

Date of Retention

Office Code

6

7

 

 

Output

Section Code

Marker

8

9

4/06

5

Declaration by the keeper of the vehicle

I declare that I have read and understood the notes attached to this form which explain the terms and conditions of the retention facility.

I declare that I have checked the information given on this form and as far as I know it is correct.

I declare that I am still the keeper of the vehicle and that I will not sell or otherwise dispose of it until I receive a Registration Certificate under its replacement registration number.

I declare that I am in possession of the tax disc for the vehicle shown overleaf and that I will surrender the disc to the local office upon request.

I also understand that my right of retention will be non-transferable and that my nominee (where applicable) will have no rights to the retained number. I also understand that my right of retention may be revoked

AT ANY TIME under the provisions of the Retention of Registration Marks Regulations (as amended) if:

¥the conditions for retention of registration numbers have not been met

¥any information given in this form is incorrect

¥any of the details of the vehicle are incorrect or false

¥any part of the documentation supplied in connection with the application is incorrect or false

¥any irregularities about the registration number are identified

¥the cheque for the retention fee and/or licensing application is returned by the bank unpaid

I also understand that if I dispose of the vehicle before I receive the replacement V5C Registration Certificate, the new keeper may claim entitlement to the number and the retention may be refused or cancelled.

I undertake to make sure that number plates bearing the new registration number allocated by the DVLA local office are placed on the vehicle when I receive form V803 from that Office.

Signature of keeper of vehicle (SEE NOTE B)

Date

In the case of joint keepership, both signatures are required.

If you are signing for a partnership, limited company or other legal entity, give your position in the firm

Download V778 PDF Form

Form Data

Fact Name Fact Detail
Purpose of the Retention Scheme Allows a vehicle keeper to temporarily hold its registration number apart from the vehicle for up to 12 months pending assignment to another vehicle.
Who Can Apply Vehicle keepers with a vehicle that is in existence, registered at DVLA, and meets specific criteria including annual roadworthiness test requirements.
Assigning to Another's Vehicle Yes, but the nominee's details need to be declared in advance, and only the grantee decides on the assignment.
Documentation Needed for Application Original documents include Registration Document/Certificate, MoT/HGV test certificate if required, and a completed V62 if needed.
Application Process Form V778/1 must be completed and submitted to a DVLA local office with necessary supporting documents.
What Happens Next The DVLA local office may inspect the vehicle and, upon approval, issue a replacement disc and pass the application to DVLA, Swansea for processing.
Replacement Registration Number The vehicle/vehicles will be allocated a new registration number appropriate to its age or a non-transferable number in specific cases.
Receiving New Documentation Successful applications result in a V778 Retention Document and a V5C Registration Certificate for the vehicle under its new number from DVLA, Swansea.
Extending the Retention Period Retention right can be extended beyond 12 months with a fee, so long as the retention document doesn't expire; entitlement to the number is lost if the right lapses.

Instructions on Utilizing V778

Successfully retaining a vehicle registration number with the V778 form requires careful attention to detail and a firm understanding of the process involved. This form plays a crucial role in allowing vehicle keepers to hold onto a particular registration number for future use, either on the same vehicle or on a different one. Filling out this form accurately is the first step toward securing this privilege. Following the steps outlined below will guide you through the process of completing the V778 form correctly. After submission, the local DVLA office will review your application, and upon approval, you'll receive the necessary documentation indicating your right of retention.

  1. Read the "Notes for Guidance" section thoroughly to understand the prerequisites and conditions of the Retention Scheme.
  2. In Section 1, provide the details of the vehicle whose registration number you wish to retain. Include the registration number, make, model, VIN/chassis number, and the vehicle licence expiry date and serial number.
  3. In the Keeper details section, enter your full name or company name, complete address, postcode, and contact numbers. This information verifies you as the keeper of the vehicle.
  4. If choosing to assign the retained number to someone else’s vehicle, fill out the Nominee details in Section 3, specifying their title and full name. Remember, the nominee will not have rights to the retained number but is the proposed recipient of the number.
  5. Provide information about where the vehicle is kept if it is not at the same address as provided in the keeper details. This is essential for inspection purposes.
  6. Before signing, ensure all provided information is accurate. Your signature in the declaration section confirms your understanding and agreement with the terms and conditions of retaining a registration number.

Upon completing the V778 form with all the required details, submit it alongside the necessary supporting documents to your local DVLA office. Do not send your application directly to DVLA, Swansea, as indicated in the form guideline. Supporting documents typically include the vehicle's registration document/certificate showing you as the keeper, a valid test certificate if applicable, and the current fee. Remember, accuracy in filling out the form and providing documentation expedites the process and avoids potential delays.

Obtain Answers on V778

  1. What is the Retention Scheme?

    The Retention Scheme allows vehicle keepers to temporarily hold a vehicle's registration number separate from the vehicle for up to 12 months, awaiting its assignment to another vehicle. If the number isn't assigned within this period, further 12-month extensions can be purchased. However, if the retention rights expire without the number being assigned, the entitlement to the number is lost.

  2. Who can apply to retain a registration number?

    Vehicle keepers, who might not necessarily be the owners, can apply to retain a registration number. The scheme is open to vehicles registered at the DVLA and requires that the vehicle is in existence, available for inspection, belongs to a class requiring an annual roadworthiness test, and is currently licensed.

  3. Can I assign a retained number to someone else’s vehicle?

    Yes. You can assign a retained number to another person's vehicle but you must inform the DVLA of the new nominee in advance by including their details on your V778 Retention Document. Changing nominee details post-receipt of the Retention Document incurs a £25 fee. However, only the grantee has the authority to decide which vehicle the number is assigned to.

  4. How and where do I apply?

    To apply for the Retention Scheme, complete the V778/1 form and submit it, along with the required supporting documents, to your nearest DVLA local office (not DVLA, Swansea). The required documents include your registration document or certificate, a test certificate for your vehicle if it's of an age or type that requires one, and the applicable fee.

  5. What documents are needed with my application?

    Your application must include original copies of your vehicle's registration document/certificate showing you as the keeper, a valid test certificate if required, and a completed V10 or V85 form if re-licensing is necessary, alongside the current fee.

  6. What happens after I submit my application?

    Following the submission of your application, your local DVLA office may require your vehicle to be inspected to confirm its eligibility. Upon satisfactory inspection and processing, your application will be sent to DVLA, Swansea, for final approval. You will then receive a replacement registration disc for your vehicle and, eventually, the V778 Retention Document and a V5C Registration Certificate showing the new number.

  7. What if I don’t assign the retained number within the twelve month period?

    If you don't assign the retained registration number within the initial 12-month period, you may apply for further 12-month extensions at a cost of £25 each time. Failure to extend the retention or assign the number will result in the loss of entitlement to that number. You may also apply for a refund of the £80 assignment fee after the retention period has expired if you decide not to use the number.

Common mistakes

  1. Not providing the vehicle licence disc expiry date and serial number in Section 1 when the vehicle licence disc is not enclosed with the application. Many forget this crucial step, which delays the process.

  2. Applying for a refund of vehicle excise duty while the application is still being considered, which can lead to cancellation of the application. This oversight can invalidate the entire effort to retain a registration number.

  3. Not including the nominee details at the time of applying or failing to update these details if they change after receiving the Retention Document, subjecting the applicant to an additional fee.

  4. Failure to provide only original documentation with the application. Copies are not accepted and this mistake can halt the entire process.

  5. Not ensuring that the vehicle is available for inspection if required. Availability for inspection is a critical part of the verification process.

  6. Omitting to return the old vehicle licence disc once the replacement disc is received, which is necessary to finalize the retention process.

  7. Disposing of or destroying the vehicle before the application has been finally approved by DVLA, Swansea, which results in the loss of entitlement to the registration number.

  • Applicants often rush through filling out the V778/1 form without carefully reviewing the attached notes for guidance, leading to preventable errors.

  • Many overlook the importance of using black ink and capital letters when completing the form, a requirement that ensures legibility.

  • Some forget to check the non-transferability of their registration number in the vehicle's Registration Document (V5/V5C) before applying, which can lead to immediate disqualification.

  • Misunderstanding the conditions for the retention scheme results in missteps, such as attempting to retain non-transferable registration numbers.

  • Omitting the signature at the end of the form or not having the correct party sign, in the case of joint keepership or companies, invalidates the application.

Documents used along the form

When dealing with the retention and transfer of vehicle registration numbers, it's essential to have the right documentation in place. The V778 form, widely known as the Retention Document, is a key piece of this process, but it's far from the only document you might need. Below are ten additional forms and documents that often accompany the V778 form, each serving its unique purpose in ensuring a smooth and compliant transaction.

  1. V5/V5C (Registration Document/Certificate): Shows proof of vehicle ownership and the registered keeper's details.
  2. V890 (Statutory Off Road Notification - SORN): Used to declare that a vehicle is not being used on public roads and hence, does not require tax.
  3. V10 or V85 (Vehicle Tax Application Forms): Required for re-licensing a vehicle, accompanied by insurance proof and payment for vehicle excise duty.
  4. V62 (Application for a Registration Certificate): Needed if the original Registration Document is not available when applying for retention.
  5. MOT/HGV Test Certificate: Provides proof of vehicle's roadworthiness. Required for vehicles of a certain age and type.
  6. V5/2 or V5C/2: The new keeper supplement, needed if the vehicle has recently changed keepers and the main V5/V5C has not yet been updated.
  7. V750 (Certificate of Entitlement): Needed if assigning a new private number to a vehicle while simultaneously retaining its original number.
  8. Cover Note or Certificate of Motor Insurance: Proof of valid insurance cover, required for taxing the vehicle or applying for certain documents.
  9. V55/4 or V55/5 (Vehicle Registration and Licensing Forms): Necessary for first-time registration or re-registration of vehicles in specific circumstances.
  10. Written Authorization from Insurers: Required if a vehicle has been written off but the number is to be retained, indicating the insurer's permission for the retention.

Securing and managing the documentation for vehicle registration number retention and transfer can seem daunting. By understanding the role and requirement of each form and document listed above, individuals and professionals can navigate the process more effectively, ensuring compliance and the successful fulfillment of their objectives.

Similar forms

  • The V5C Vehicle Registration Certificate is similar to the V778 form in that it identifies the legal keeper of a vehicle and specifies details regarding its registration. Both documents are essential for the legal transfer and retention of vehicle registration numbers.

  • The V750 Certificate of Entitlement parallels the V778 form since it allows individuals to hold or assign a registration number to a vehicle. Like the V778, the V750 is used in transactions involving personalized vehicle registration numbers.

  • The V890 Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) and the V778 share the commonality of changing a vehicle's registration status with the DVLA. While the V890 declares a vehicle off-road, the V778 allows for the retention of its registration number, both affecting how a vehicle is recognized by the authorities.

  • A V62 Application for a Registration Certificate is akin to the V778 as it's another form used in the process of registering or re-registering a vehicle's number with the DVLA, often following a change in keeper or loss of the original document.

  • The V10 Vehicle Licence Application shares similarities with the V778 since both are involved in the administrative process regarding a vehicle's registration and licensing. The V10 is specifically for obtaining a tax disc, which must be in place for a retention application.

  • The V55/4 or V55/5 form for first-time vehicle registration or re-registration in the UK parallels the V778 by engaging with the DVLA to update or establish a vehicle’s official status, including its registration number.

  • MOT Certificates are akin to the V778 because they provide documentary evidence required by the DVLA for the retention, transfer, or assignment of registration numbers, verifying the vehicle’s roadworthiness as part of the retention scheme criteria.

  • The Certificate of Motor Insurance is comparable to the V778 form in that proof of insurance is often a prerequisite for various vehicle registration processes, including the retention and transfer of registration numbers.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the V778 form for retention of a vehicle registration number, there are several do's and don'ts to keep in mind to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Do:
  • Read the Agency's information booklet INF46 "Registration Numbers and You" before starting the application, as it provides helpful guidance.
  • Ensure all the necessary documents, including the V5/V5C showing you as the vehicle's registered keeper and the test certificate if required, are ready before applying.
  • Include the appropriate fee with your application, making sure to provide the drawer's full name and address on the back of the cheque if paying by this method.
  • Complete Section 3 if nominating someone else’s vehicle to receive the number, ensuring you have their full details ready.
  • Check thoroughly the details on your application before submitting to avoid any errors or delays in the process.
Don't:
  • Send your application to DVLA, Swansea, as it must be sent to a DVLA local office with the appropriate supporting documents.
  • Apply for a refund of vehicle excise duty while your application is being considered, as this could result in cancellation of your application.
  • Forget to ensure that the vehicle donating the number is currently licensed or has a valid SORN if applicable.
  • Dispose of or destroy the vehicle before your application has been finally approved by DVLA, Swansea, since this could lead to loss of entitlement to the number.
  • Ignore the requirement for adding or changing nominee details correctly; ensure any changes are made before the V778 Retention Document expires to avoid additional fees.

Misconceptions

  • One common misconception is that the V778 form allows for permanent retention of a vehicle registration number. However, it facilitates the temporary holding of a registration number apart from the vehicle for only up to 12 months at a time, with the possibility of further 12-month extensions if desired.

  • Many believe that any vehicle can participate in the Retention Scheme. In reality, the scheme is limited to vehicles that exist, are registered with the DVLA, require an annual roadworthiness test, and are currently licensed.

  • There's a misunderstanding that once a registration number is on retention, it cannot be assigned to another vehicle. Actually, the V778 form allows for the assignment of the retained number to another person's vehicle, albeit the nominee’s details must be provided.

  • Some people think you can apply for a vehicle excise duty refund while your retention application is being processed. This is incorrect; applying for a refund during this period can lead to the cancellation of your application.

  • Another misconception is that the V778 form's process and documentation requirements are overly complicated. While thorough, the provided guidance notes clarify the necessary steps and required documents, making the process straightforward if instructions are followed carefully.

  • It's mistakenly believed that the V778 retention document grants permanent rights to the registration number. The document actually provides entitlement only for the specified retention period, requiring renewal after 12 months or assignment within this timeframe to maintain entitlement.

  • Many assume that all vehicles, including those with a non-transferable registration, can participate in the retention scheme. Only vehicles with transferable registration numbers can be part of the scheme, excluding vehicles with non-transferable numbers and those bearing 'Q' or 'NIQ' prefixes.

  • There’s a belief that the V778 form process is immediate. In practice, after local DVLA office approval, the application is processed by DVLA, Swansea, which takes around 4 weeks, or possibly 8 weeks if a V62 form is used, before the new documents are dispatched.

  • Lastly, some think that a nominee automatically gains rights to the retained number. The V778 process allows the grantee to assign the number to a nominee's vehicle, but the nominee has no inherent rights to the number under the retention arrangements.

Key takeaways

Filling out the V778 form allows a vehicle's keeper to retain the vehicle's registration number for a fixed period, primarily when it is not currently assigned to a vehicle. This process is governed by specific guidelines designed to ensure that both the registration number's integrity and the vehicle's identification are maintained. Here are key takeaways regarding the use and completion of the V778 form:

  • The V778 Retention Scheme enables vehicle owners to hold onto a vehicle registration number separately from the vehicle for up to 12 months, with the possibility of extending this period should the number not be reassigned within that timeframe.
  • Application to the scheme is open to those listed as the keeper of the vehicle in question, not necessarily the owner. This distinction is crucial for understanding who has the legal right to retain and assign the number.
  • One significant feature of the scheme is that it allows the retention number to be assigned to someone else's vehicle. However, details of the nominee must be provided at the time of the application or added later for a fee, and the right to assign the number exclusively belongs to the original applicant.
  • A range of documents must accompany the V778 application, including the vehicle's Registration Document or Certificate (V5/V5C) and, if applicable, a current MOT or HGV test certificate. These documents ensure the vehicle meets the necessary criteria for retention eligibility.
  • The application process requires a fee, which covers both the retention of the registration number and its eventual assignment to a new vehicle. It's important to note that should the retention application fail or be withdrawn, the retention fee may not be refunded.
  • Upon approval, the applicant receives a V778 Retention Document, valid for 12 months, signifying the right to retain the registration number. If the document expires without the number being assigned to a new vehicle, further steps must be taken to renew the retention right or the entitlement to the number may be lost.

It's essential to understand these aspects of the V778 form and the retention scheme to manage vehicle registration numbers effectively. Accurate completion of the form and adherence to the guidelines ensure a smooth process for retaining and assigning registration numbers.

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