A NEWPORT businessman is warning drivers to be aware of new rules about the sale of car numberplates.

Robert Gage, pictured, owner of Trade Plates, Caerleon Road, says people are visiting his premises without knowing they must now produce proof of who they are, and their entitlement to buy number-plates.

From January 1, 2003, the DVLA introduced the register of number-plate suppliers.

Customers wanting to buy number-plates for trailers, caravans or to replace broken ones, must now also bring in documents providing proof of who they are and their entitlement to the registration mark.

Mr Gage said: "This needs to be publicised to let people know what they need to bring in.

"People now need to provide us with proof of identity, like a driving licence, and proof of entitlement, like a registration document. Some people have not realised the change."

Accepted proof of ID is a current photocard licence, bank or building society statement, or recent utility bill with one of the following - current paper driving licence, credit/debit card with photograph, travel passcard with photo, passport or foreign national identity card.

Accepted proof of entitlement also includes a certificate of entitlement to a mark (V750), cherished transfer retention document (V778), vehicle licence renewal (V11), authorisation slip from DVLA local office (V948), letter of authority from fleet operators on company-headed notepaper that the company holds the V5 or the vehicle identification number, or certificate of vehicle registration/temporary export certificate (V379).

The DVLA hopes that the introduction of this law will make it more difficult for thieves who may put fake plates on stolen vehicles to make them appear legitimate.