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An export bar has been placed on a Union Flag that led the charge for the British at the Battle of Trafalgar

• Updated: 17 December 2025

Designated days when the Union Flag must be flown on UK government buildings. UK government buildings are also encouraged to fly the Union Flag all year round.

• Updated: 14 March 2025

How to display number or licence plates, get plates made up, replace lost, damaged or stolen plates, and the national letters, flags and symbols you can display.

• Overview

  Number plates (also known as licence plates) must show your registration…

• Rules for number plates

  The number plates on your vehicle must: be made from a reflective material…

• Getting number plates made up

  You might need to get a number plate made up if for example: your number…

• Flags, identifiers and stickers

  You can display one of the following flags with identifying letters on the…

Complete application form MSF 3900 to apply for a replacement Flag State Endorsement (Certificate of Equivalent Competency).

Delegates from across the UK maritime sector gathered in London to discuss opportunities for strengthening economic growth, innovation and industry-government collaboration at UK Flag Forum 2026. 

• Updated: 16 April 2026

Complete application form MSF 4203 to apply for a UK Flag State Endorsement (FSE).

Online proforma registration and guidance for owners, operators and bareboat charterers registering merchant vessels under the UK flag.

• Updated: 29 March 2019

Form for assessing safety criteria before a fishing vessel is considered for registration.

• Updated: 20 July 2021

A quick-reference guide to UK regulations and procedures.

• Updated: 8 March 2022