The ‘Naughty List’ Revealed: Banned 26-Series Number Plates You Can’t Buy

The countdown to the March 1st, 2026, number plate release has officially begun. But before the new "26" series hits the roads, the DVLA has gathered its annual "Censorship Committee" to blacklist hundreds of combinations deemed too rude, offensive, or politically sensitive for British roads.


At Easy Number Plates, we love a creative registration. However, there is a fine line between "unique" and "illegal."


The DVLA has just released the suppressed list for the upcoming 26-series, and it includes some shocking combinations you definitely won’t be seeing on the motorway next year.


Here is everything you need to know about the banned plates of 2026—and how to get a head-turning (but fully legal) registration instead.


Why Does the DVLA Ban Number Plates?



Every six months, before the new age identifier is released (in this case, 26), the DVLA scans millions of potential combinations. Their proprietary system flags any registration that looks like:




  • Swear words or offensive slang.

  • Religious or political references.

  • References to violence, war, or crime.

  • Sexual content.



While many drivers would love a cheeky plate, the DVLA’s strict policy ensures that no vehicle displays a registration that could cause "offence or embarrassment" to the general public.


The Banned "26" List: What You Can’t Buy



The '26' age identifier has created some unfortunate (and hilarious) combinations when paired with specific letters. Here are the standout bans for 2026:


1. Violence & Crime


The DVLA has cracked down hard on any behaviour resembling aggression.



  • TE26 ROR (Terror)

  • B26 OMB (Bomb)

  • AR26 SON (Arson)

  • MU26 DER (Murder)


2. Political & Sensitive Terms


Given the current global climate, the DVLA has blocked plates that reference specific conflicts or countries to avoid political statements on the road.



  • RU26 UKR (Russia/Ukraine references)

  • JE26 HAD (Jihad)

  • GA26 AZA (Gaza)

  • NO26 RUS (No Russia)


3. The "Rude" Ones


As always, the classic rude words have been filtered out. You won't be able to buy:



  • **BJ26 *** (Any plate starting with BJ26 is automatically blocked)

  • SH26 GGZ (Shags)

  • OR26 ASM (Orgasm)

  • PE26 VRT (Pervert)


Don’t Risk It: The Penalty for Illegal Plates


Every year, we see drivers trying to "cheat" the system by using illegal spacing or misplaced fixing bolts to make a standard plate look like a banned plate.


Warning: Altering your number plate spacing to change the meaning is illegal. If caught, you face:



  • A fine of up to £1,000.

  • An immediate MOT failure.

  • The DVLA is permanently confiscating your private registration (with no refund!).


Don't risk your license or your wallet for a cheap laugh. There is a better way to stand out.


How to Legally Stand Out in 2026


Just because you can’t have it TE26 ROR doesn’t mean your car has to look boring. The most significant trend for 2026 isn’t rude words—it’s premium plate styles.


If you are picking up a brand new 26-plate car in March, or just want to refresh your current vehicle, upgrade your standard dealer plates to something that screams quality:



  • 4D Laser Cut Plates: These feature raised, laser-cut acrylic characters that give your registration a bold, 3D appearance. They are fully road-legal and add a premium finish to any bumper.


  • Hex/Lambo-Style Plates: Want a custom shape? Our Hex plates are 100% legal and fit perfectly on the rear of modern SUVs, Audis, and Lamborghinis.


  • Krystal Gel Plates: For a high-gloss, domed finish that catches the light, 3D Gel is the ultimate choice for luxury vehicles.


Secure Your 2026 Look Today


The new 26-series plates will be released for sale in December/January, with the cars hitting the road on March 1st, 2026.


If you are buying a new car, tell your dealer not to drill the bumper. Instead, order a set of non-destructive sticky pads and a premium set of plates from us.


Ready to upgrade?  Try our Number Plate Builder to instantly see how your registration looks in 4D, Gel, or Hex styles.