Fancy Number Plate in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

What is a Fancy Number Plate

A fancy number plate, also known as a VIP or special number plate, consists of registration numbers that are aesthetically pleasing, easy to remember, or culturally significant. Numbers like ‘0001’, ‘1111’, or those of religious or personal importance like ‘0786’ are among the most sought-after. Vehicle owners often pay a premium to secure these plates, viewing them as a reflection of their individuality or status.

In the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the process of acquiring these fancy number plates is regulated by the Regional Transport Office (RTO), much like in the rest of India. Though the demand may be smaller compared to larger states, the process of obtaining these plates remains competitive and formalised.

How to Get a Fancy Number Plate

Acquiring a fancy number plate in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands follows a process similar to that of other parts of India, beginning with online registration and progressing through an auction system. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Online Registration

• Visit the MoRTH Website: Begin by registering on the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) website.
   
• Sign Up: Create an account as a public user.
   
• Login: Use your credentials to log in and select your desired number from the list of available fancy numbers.
   
• Pay the Registration Fee: A non-refundable fee is required to reserve your chosen number and proceed to the auction phase.

E-Auction Process

Once the registration is complete, you can participate in the e-auction to bid on your desired number:

• Auction Participation: After registration, join the e-auction. Auctions generally last for five days, including three days for registration and two days for bidding.
   
• Bidding Steps: Place your bids in pre-defined increments, often ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000.
   
• Winning the Bid: The highest bidder at the close of the auction secures the fancy number.

Final Payment and Allotment

After winning the auction:

• Payment: Pay the remaining balance within five days of the auction’s conclusion.
   
• Allotment Letter: Upon full payment, you will receive an allotment letter, which is valid for 90 days. This letter is crucial for completing the vehicle registration process.
   
• Display Your Fancy Number Plate: With your allotment letter, you can now proudly display your fancy number plate.

Things to Remember While Applying for a Fancy Number Plate

In order to guarantee a seamless procedure and adherence to state legislation, applying for a fancy number plate in Andaman and Nicobar Islands requires a number of crucial stages and restrictions. The following are essential things to remember in order to complete this process properly:

• Verify if the preferred number plate is available: Visit a local RTO office in Andaman and Nicobar Islands or check the official Parivahan website to confirm if the VIP or fancy number you want is available. To make sure the number you have selected is up for bid, you must do this step.
   
• Payment Right Away After Winning Bid: When you win the auction for the fancy number plate of your choice, you can pay right away. Your chosen number may be forfeited if payment is delayed.
   
• Refund Policy if Number Is Not Granted: You are entitled to a refund if, after winning the auction, you do not receive the selected number plate. Verify that the issuing authority adheres to the correct refund protocol.
   
• High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) Requirement: All vehicles, including those with fancy number plates, are required to have HSRPs. In Andaman and Nicobar Islands, this is a must for all kinds of vehicles.
   
• Adherence to the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988: You are not exempt from following the rules of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, just because you have a fancy number plate. Verify that your number plate conforms with all legal requirements and specifications established by this Act.

Fees and Other Charges

The cost of acquiring a fancy number plate in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands varies depending on the number’s category and demand. The fee must be paid through the official RTO website or office during the application process. Below is an outline of the general pricing structure for fancy numbers in the region. 

How to Check Availability of Fancy Number Plates

You can check the availability of fancy number plates using the following steps:

Step 1: Visit the MoRTH Website:

• Head to the official Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) website.

Step 2: Select ‘Choice Number’: 

• Look for the ‘Choice Number’ option on the website.

Step 3: Choose State and RTO:

• Select Andaman and Nicobar Islands as your state and then choose the corresponding Regional Transport Office (RTO).

Step 4: View Available Numbers: 

• A list of available fancy numbers will be displayed. You can choose your preferred number from this list.

Step 5: Proceed with Registration:

• If your chosen number is available, proceed with the registration and auction process.

Fancy Number Plate: Challenges and Considerations

While acquiring a fancy number plate offers prestige, it also comes with challenges. Here’s a look at some important factors:

Competitive Bidding Process

• Escalating Prices: As the demand for fancy numbers increases, so do the auction prices, sometimes making it difficult for average buyers to secure their desired plates.
   
• Transparency Issues: The e-auction system has raised concerns about transparency in some regions, though there have been fewer reported issues in smaller regions like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Legal Compliance

• Misuse of Plates: Any alterations to the standard format of fancy number plates are strictly prohibited. Customisations such as changing fonts or sizes can result in penalties.
   
• Strict Regulations: All plates must adhere to the design and format regulations outlined by the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

Customisation Restrictions

• Standard Format: The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 mandates a standard format for all vehicle plates. Deviating from this format can attract penalties.
   
• No Personalisation Beyond Numbers: While the number can be fancy, further personalisation of the plate’s appearance is not allowed.

How to Transfer Fancy Number Plates

Fancy number plates can be transferred between vehicles under certain conditions:

1. No Objection Certificate (NOC): Obtain an NOC from the RTO for transferring the number.
    
2. Same Owner, Same State: The number can only be transferred between vehicles owned by the same individual within the same state.
    
3. Transfer Fee: The fee varies based on the RTO and number category, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand rupees.

Conclusion

Fancy number plates in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are becoming a mark of prestige, individuality, and cultural significance. Though the process involves several steps, including online registration and an e-auction, it’s a well-regulated system. Whether you’re drawn to these plates for their exclusivity or simply for the aesthetics, obtaining a fancy number plate offers a way to make a statement on the road.

Whether motivated by status, superstition, or the desire for a distinctive number, the process provides a way to obtain a number plate that truly represents you. Begin your journey to personalised registration today with ease and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

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