The DVLA is warning motorists to check the Certificate of Entitlement (V750) when purchasing a personalised registration after 900 blank certificates were stolen.

Reg buyers are advised not to purchase the registration number if the serial number of the V750 certificate falls within the following range:

5930101 to 5931000

The serial number is located in the top right corner of the certificate.

If a motorist is offered a V750 when buying a personalised registration from a private seller that falls into this range they should report the matter to Northumbria police immediately.

The V750 certificate is issued for a registration number which has never been assigned to a vehicle.  If the number had previously been assigned to a vehicle then the buyer should ask to see a Retention Document (V778) or a vehicle registration certificate (V5C).

2000 blank driver licence counterparts (D740) were also stolen at the same time.  The serial numbers for these counterparts range from 6560001 to 6562000.  Anyone presented with a paper counterpart falling into this range should contact Northumbria police.  If you are unsure, don’t buy and contact Northumbria police.

The serial number is located on the top and bottom of the counterpart.

The 900 blank certificates and 2000 blank counterparts were stolen from DVLA’s stationary supplier on 20 November 2012.

No personal details have been compromised as a result of this theft.

DVLA has contacted vehicle hire companies, number plate dealers and other key stakeholders to make them aware of the theft.

The theft of the certificates and counterparts is currently under police investigation.

Find out about DVLA’s online services at: www.gov.uk/browse/driving

Please visit www.direct.gov.uk/motoring for government information on all aspects of motoring, ranging from log books and driving licences to driving tests and vehicle tax.