What is a Fancy Number Plate
A fancy number plate, often called a VIP number plate, is a registration number that makes an impression because of its rarity or cultural relevance. Numbers like "0001" are popular combinations; in Chandigarh, acquiring such numbers frequently requires placing hefty bids in the Registration and Licensing Authority (RLA) auctions. These numbers are precious since they are uncommon and often linked to social standing.
Chandigarh residents are prepared to pay more for fancy license plates. A few of the most sought-after numbers can sell for as much as ₹2 lakhs to ₹7 lakhs, depending on how rare they are. These numerals indicate prestige and are considered a method to separate oneself from the crowd.
How to Get a Fancy Number Plate
A few critical steps need to be taken to get a fancy number plate in Chandigarh, such as online registration and auction-based number acquisition. It functions as follows:
Online Registration
You must start the process by registering on the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) website. This is your first step to participating in the fancy number auction.
- Check out the MoRTH webpage.
- As a public user, register.
- Access your account by logging in.
- Select the desired fancy number from the list.
- To get a number, pay the registration fee.
After this, you can move on to the auction part of the process.
E-Auction Process
The next step is to enter the e-auction, where you will compete with other bidders for the fancy number.
- Register and then participate in the e-auction.
- Five days are allotted to the auction—two days for bidding and three days for registration.
- In specific categories, you can bid in lower increments of ₹10,000.
- The fancy number goes to the highest bidder.
After this, all that's left to do is complete the procedure.
Final Payment and Allotment
- If you win the auction, you must get your number and complete the payment.
- You will receive an email and SMS notification if you are the winning bidder.
- The remaining balance must be paid in five days.
- Receive your letter of allotment, which is suitable for 90 days.
- Utilise this letter to finish registering the car.
You can now display your car's new, fancy number plate!
Things to Remember While Applying for a Fancy Number Plate
Applying for a fancy number plate in Chandigarh involves specific steps and requirements to ensure a smooth process. From availability checks to timely payments and legal compliance, here’s what you need to know before you begin:
- Check Availability: Before proceeding, confirm the availability of your desired VIP or fancy number on the Parivahan website or by visiting the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Chandigarh. This step ensures your chosen number is available, saving you time.
- Refund Eligibility: If you’re unable to secure your selected number even after winning the bid, you are eligible for a refund. This policy is in place to ensure fair treatment for all applicants in case of issues with the chosen number.
- Immediate Payment: Once you win the bid, make sure to pay the specified amount immediately to confirm your reservation. Any payment delay could result in the forfeiture of your reserved number, making timely action crucial.
- High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP): It is mandatory for all vehicles, including those with fancy numbers, to have a High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) to enhance vehicle security and standardisation.
- Motor Vehicles Act Compliance: Even with a fancy number plate, ensure compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. Adhering to these regulations guarantees that your vehicle meets the required legal standards.
Following these guidelines will help streamline your application process and ensure compliance with all legal requirements for your fancy number plate in Chandigarh.
Fees and Charges
Depending on the kind of number you select, there are different prices associated with getting a fancy number plate in Chandigarh. The several fancy number categories are displayed in the table below:
Category | Examples | Base Price for 2-wheeler | Base Price for 4-wheeler |
| Super Elite Numbers | 0001 | ₹50,000 | ₹3 lakhs |
| Single Digit Numbers | 0002, 0003, 0004, 0005, 0006, 0007, 0008, 0009 | ₹30,000 | ₹1.5 lakhs |
| Other Popular Numbers | 0786, 1111, 7777, 9999, Numbers between 0010 to 0099 | ₹20,000 | ₹70,000 |
| Semi-Fancy Numbers | 0100, 0222, 0333, 0444, 0555, 0666, 0777, 0888, 0999, etc. | ₹10,000 | ₹50,000 |
How to Check Availability of Fancy Number Plates
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to find out if a fancy number plate is available in Chandigarh:
Step 1: Visit the website of the Transport Department
- Go to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) webpage or the Telangana Transport Department's official website.
Step 2: To select "Choice Number".
- Look for the "Choice Number" or a comparable option on the page to view the fancy number possibilities.
Step 3: Choose Your RTO and State
- After deciding on Chandigarh as your state, pick the Regional Transport Office (RTO) that corresponds to you from the list that appears.
Step 4: Look Up Available Phone Numbers
- A list of available fancy numbers will appear following your state and RTO selection.
Step 5: Sign up to Place a Bid
- Register on the website for bidding and follow the on-screen instructions if your selected number is available.
Fancy Number Plate: Challenges and Considerations
Even though fancy number plates are in high demand, the process has some drawbacks and things to keep in mind:
Competitive Bidding Process
- Increasing Costs: The bidding process might be very competitive because of the strong demand for specific numbers. Some people find getting the numbers they want challenging because the fees can rise suddenly.
- Transparency Issues: Concerns regarding partiality or manipulation in the bidding process have been voiced occasionally, although the auction procedure is usually transparent.
Legal Compliance
- Plate Misuse: To make their number plates stand out or appear more distinctive, some Chandigarh drivers try to alter their appearance. Nevertheless, since the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 imposes stringent regulations on the style, dimensions, and typeface of license plates, this might get you in legal hot water.
- Penalties: Failure to abide by the official requirements may result in fines or the cancellation of the registration number.
Customisation Restrictions
- Standard Format: All fancy number plates must follow a standard format as the Motor Vehicles Act requires. It is against the law to alter the plate beyond what is permitted.
- Non-Compliance: Any alterations to the plate's design can lead to legal action.
How to Transfer Fancy Number Plates
If you wish to transfer your fancy number plate from one vehicle to another, the process requires getting a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Registration and Licensing Authority. The transfer charge, which ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand rupees, is usually reasonable and depends on the quantity and the particular RLA criteria. It's crucial to remember that transferring a fancy license plate is only permitted within the same state and that all legal requirements must be strictly adhered to.
Conclusion
In Chandigarh, fancy number plates provide a unique fusion of status, personality, and prestige. Getting one is not too difficult, but you must register online, bid competitively, and make the final payment. These plates sometimes have hefty prices attached, particularly the more well-known or culturally significant varieties. However, as more individuals look to their car's registration to convey their personality and status, the market for distinctive number plates will only get bigger.
Fancy number plates offer a means to stand out on the streets of Chandigarh, regardless of your motivations—status, superstition, or a yearning for individuality. Your car can proudly display a number plate that reflects who you are by abiding by the rules and the legal procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
