As more people hit the roads post-lockdown, you might notice a new trend: cars with a small green badge on the side of their number plates, especially on newer, recently registered models. Wondering what it’s all about? We’re here to explain.

In 2020, the UK Government introduced these green badges for zero-emission vehicles. However, hybrids won’t qualify – if your car uses any petrol or diesel, it won’t be sporting the green badge.

The purpose of these plates is to make it easier for local authorities to offer benefits to zero-emission vehicles, such as discounted or free parking, access to certain lanes or routes, and exemptions from congestion charges aimed at more polluting vehicles. This move is part of broader efforts to end new petrol and diesel car sales in the UK by 2030.

While green badges aren’t mandatory, they’re available for purchase, even for existing vehicles. If you want to showcase your eco-friendly, fully electric ride, you can buy and install the new plates – just be prepared to confirm your car qualifies.

In Britain, having a current registration plate has long been seen as a mark of prestige. We’ll see if the green flash gains similar popularity.

Whether you’re replacing an old plate or looking to order a new one with your personalised registration (with or without the green badge), we’ve got you covered.