Monaco’s residents have long enjoyed the privilege of customising their vehicle registration plates at no cost, but this could soon change. The government is actively reviewing the possibility of introducing fees for personalised plates, following years of debate on the subject.
Currently, Monegasques can request a registration number featuring a preferred combination—such as a birthdate, initials, or lucky number—provided it complies with established formats. Certain combinations, like diplomatic codes or numbers reserved for official state vehicles, remain off-limits. Despite the high demand for specific sequences, such as “488” for Ferrari enthusiasts or “720S” for those with a preference towards McLarens, personalisation remains free of charge for now.
The idea of monetising this service has been under discussion for years, with some viewing it as a valuable revenue stream for the state, while others worry about the potential impact on Monaco’s image. Although the proposal was not previously prioritised, recent developments suggest the government is now seriously considering its implementation.
The potential introduction of fees is being examined as part of a broader overhaul of Monaco’s vehicle registration system. The new system, currently in development, will automate certain processes and expand online services for residents. Alongside these updates, the government is exploring pricing models for personalised plates and potential changes to existing plate formats.
If Monaco proceeds with charging for custom plates, it could follow models already in place across the world. In the UK, personalised plates have been sold by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) since 1989, with prices starting at 80 pounds (88 euros) and reaching hundreds of thousands in secondary markets. Belgium introduced a flat fee of 1,000 euros per plate in 2014, generating over 80 million euros in a decade. Dubai, known for its extravagant auctions, saw a single plate sell for 13.7 million euros in 2023, with funds often directed to charitable causes.
If Monaco adopts a pricing system, authorities will need to determine regulations to prevent misuse. Some countries impose strict moderation to avoid offensive or politically sensitive messages. A recent controversy in California highlighted the risks when a seemingly innocuous plate sparked unintended controversy. Monaco may also consider auctioning rare or highly sought-after numbers, similar to Dubai and the UK.
Additionally, logistical concerns must be addressed. Current parking infrastructure is designed for plates with four characters, meaning either this rule would need to remain in place or significant adjustments would be required.
Though no official decision has been made, demand for personalised plates remains strong. However, speculation on resale value is unlikely, as Monaco’s current system ties registrations to individuals, preventing transfers. Should pricing be introduced, it could mark a shift in how vehicle registration is managed in the Principality—potentially turning a previously free service into a lucrative revenue stream.