In 1903, the Motor Car Act, which mandated the registration of motor vehicles, became law. It took effect on 1 January 1904, though the first number plates were issued in late 1903. The A1 registration plate was issued by London county council in December 1903 to the second Earl Russell. It was the first registration issued by the London County Council, though other authorities started before that date. From surviving records, the first number known to have been issued is Hastings' DY 1 issued on 23 November 1903.