Guidance

HGV and trailer ministry plates and plating certificates

Find out if your heavy goods vehicle (HGV) or trailer needs a ministry plate and plating certificate, how to get them and what to do if you lose or damage them.

Applies to England, Scotland and Wales

Documents

Details

HGV and trailer plates (sometimes called ‘ministry plates’) and plating certificates are paper documents that show important information about the vehicle or trailer.

This guide explains:

  • which HGVs and trailers need them
  • how to get them for a new HGV or trailer
  • where to display the plate and where to keep the plating certificate
  • how to get updated plates and plating certificates if you make changes to your vehicle
  • how to get replacements if the originals are damaged or lost

Updates to this page

Published 20 March 2023

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