Forty years after his debut in the 1968 movie The Love Bug, Herbie, the cheeky VW Beetle is still a silver screen icon. It's no surprise that this vehicle was Disney's choice for their films as it has been a popular car since its first appearance in the 1950s. To help Herbie stand out even further, perhaps a well-chosen personalised registration, such as 1 OVE, would have been the perfect finishing touch to the number 53 'Love Bug'?

Personalising the Beetle

Interest in personalised number plates is growing, one of the main reasons being that they provide an opportunity for motorists to show some personality. Many choose to display names, favourite hobbies and even job-related registrations on their vehicles, while others opt for model-related number plates.

For proud Volkswagen Beetle owners, there are numerous plates available. Perhaps 3 VW, BUG 1, 9 BUG or BUG 6Y would be ideal?

There are also numerous model-related plates available, such as 1300 VW. Alternatively, coupling the model with one's initials or name is a fun, personal approach. Plates such as DEZ 1100, 1200 KC and WIL 1500 would be perfect for the right person, and there are many more alternatives on the market.

It is illegal to display a plate that would result in a car appearing to be newer than it actually is. Therefore, the added attraction of the examples above is that they were all issued before 1963, so are dateless. This means that one needn't worry about law breaking and can retain some authenticity. A traditional plate with a classic car works brilliantly!

A Few Other Rules to Remember…

Number plates can be great fun but, in order to avoid a hefty fine of £1000, one must be aware of the following rules governing the display of registrations:

1. The standard font must be used on all registrations. Any alterations, such as fancy fonts, background designs or changes to the characters or character spacing on plates, is illegal
2. Logos, religious symbols and sporting emblems are not permitted on number plates as these may obscure the registration
Optional Amendments:
1. A 3-D effect is allowed on the typeface, with a coloured, non-reflective border
2. The display of one national emblem is permitted
3. Vehicles manufactured before January 1973 have the option of displaying old-style, black, metal plates. Owners may display white, silver or grey characters. Again, this is great news for owners of older Beetles wanting to retain authenticity and charm

Enjoy Getting Noticed

Unique, classic cars, such as Volkswagen Beetles will continue to turn heads, just as personalised number plates will. Combining the two could be the ideal way to get noticed, raise a bigger smile from passers by and perhaps even spread the number plates bug a little further.