I am just about to start the restoration of a 1959 Raleigh RM1 but thought that I would get the registration process underway as the bike has no paperwork and I would like to retain the original registration number.   I think I can find out how to do it online but I was wondering if anybody has done this themselves and has any hints or tips.   Thanks, TC                                                                                                                                                                             

Not for over 30 years so sorry not much help                                                                                                                                                                             

Depends on how long it's been since it was last registered on the road.
If the number has not been brought over to the current system then the best you can do is get an age related non-transferable number. To get that you will need to supply documentation from the manufacturer or a recognised owners club stating when the frame and engine were manufactured. It's a simple enough process, just time consuming.  

TC I recently imported a 1958 bike and applied for age related plates. During this process I read up quite a lot of stuff including the application for original number plates (although not what is was going for).

I think you will find that the original number should still be available, as long as the bike has not been re-registered in it's life, or registration cancelled. The DVLA web site has full explanations of the process. They may want to see the bike to check VIN and engine numbers etc.

Good luck, I do like the old classics.                                                                                                                                                                             

Thanks for the info guys!   The only bit of paperwork I have is the tax disc still on the bike from 1972.   Think my next step is to contact owners club (or maybe VMCC although technically it is not vintage) for a representative to check engine and frame number.   Hopefully it will be sorted out by the time she is ready to roll...                                                                                                                                                                               

Cant you just apply for a new V5 you have the reg number ?