Guides

How Do I Buy a Plate?

Buying a plate on Marketplates is designed to be simple, secure and on your terms.

You don’t need an account to browse. And every transaction is protected from start to finish.

Here’s how it works.

Pit Crew
Marketplates Industry Experts
• 15 Aug 2025 • 6 min read • 2.1k views
Victorian number plate — Marketplates buyer guide
Protected payments. Verified users. Clear, state-based transfers.

1. Find a Plate

You can start by searching:

  • By keyword or number
  • By category (e.g. Euro plates, initials, slogans)
  • By state
  • By price range
  • By car type
  • By vehicle type

Each listing includes clear photos, seller info, and a description.

If you're ready to buy, you have two options.

2. Choose “Buy Now” or “Make an Offer”

  • Buy Now: Locks in the plate at the listed price
  • Make an Offer: Start a private negotiation. The seller can accept, counter or decline

3. Complete Your ID Check

Once a deal is accepted, you'll be prompted to verify your identity. This step keeps both parties safe and is required for all buyers.

The process takes less than a minute and includes:

  • Uploading your licence or passport
  • A fast ID check
  • Setting up an Escrow.com account (used for secure payments)

4. Transact Securely

You’ll transfer payment via Escrow.com.

Funds are held securely until:

  • The seller confirms the plate has been transferred
  • Or you confirm the plate has been received

Only then is the money released.

If something goes wrong, Escrow.com offers a clear dispute process.

LINK TO THIS PAGE: https://www.escrow.com/learn-more/how-escrow-works/escrow-dispute

5. Transfer the Plate

Once payment is locked in, you and the seller will follow the transfer process for your state.

You’ll get access to our transfer guide to make sure you meet all requirements.

When confirmed, the transaction is complete, and the plate is yours.

Need help?

Our Pit Crew can help with state rules, transfers and anything in between. Reach out any time.

Transfers Explained

Step-by-step from payment to completed transfer.

Read Article

How Long Does a Plate Transfer Take?

What to expect, and how to move faster.

Read Article

How Are Payments Protected?

Why your funds are safe until handover is confirmed.

Read Article
Guides

Buyer Guide: How do I buy a plate?

Buying a plate on Marketplates is safe and straightforward. Verify your identity, make an offer (or buy now), pay securely, and complete the transfer with confidence. Your payment stays protected until the plate is legally transferred.

Pit Crew
Marketplates Industry Experts
• 15 Aug 2025 • 6 min read • 2.1k views
Victorian number plate — Marketplates buyer guide
Protected payments. Verified users. Clear, state-based transfers.

Step 1: Browse & Shortlist

Find your plate

Use filters (state, style, price) and open plate pages to view photos, dimensions, and any history notes. Add favourites so you can compare quickly.

Step 2: Verify Yourself

Quick ID check

Complete a fast digital ID verification (licence or passport). It protects you and sellers, and unlocks messaging, offers and checkout.

ID Verified Your profile shows a verification badge to sellers.

Step 3: Make an Offer or Buy Now

Choose your path

Make an Offer to negotiate, or use Buy Now if you’re happy with the price. Keep all messages and terms on-platform.

Step 4: Pay Securely

Funds are protected

Checkout is handled securely. Your payment is held by a third-party and only released after the transfer is confirmed. Never send money off-platform.

Step 5: Transfer & Confirm

Complete the handover

Follow the state’s process to transfer the plate. Upload proof when requested. Once both parties confirm, funds are released to the seller.

Need help?

Our Pit Crew can help with state rules, transfers and anything in between. Reach out any time.

Transfers Explained

Step-by-step from payment to completed transfer.

Read Article

How Long Does a Plate Transfer Take?

What to expect, and how to move faster.

Read Article

How Are Payments Protected?

Why your funds are safe until handover is confirmed.

Read Article