What is a Fancy Number Plate
A fancy number plate, also known as a VIP number plate, features what are considered special or unique numbers. These can include sequences like ‘0007,’ ‘1234,’ or culturally significant numbers such as ‘0786.’ Many people invest significant amounts of money, sometimes reaching lakhs of Rupees, to secure these distinctive registration numbers in an effort to make their vehicles stand out. In Gujarat, acquiring such plates involves a somewhat intricate process overseen by the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
How to Get a Fancy Number Plate
Obtaining a fancy number plate in Gujarat involves several key steps, beginning with online registration and concluding with winning the number at an auction. Here's the process outlined below.
Online Registration
Start by registering on the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) website, which is the initial step to take part in the fancy number auction. Follow these steps:
- Go to the MoRTH website.
- Create an account as a public user.
- Log in to your account.
- Select the fancy number you desire from the available options.
- Pay the registration fee to reserve your chosen number.
After completing this, you can proceed to the auction phase.
E-Auction Process
The following step is to participate in the e-auction, where you'll bid against others to secure the fancy number. Here's how it works:
- Join the e-auction once you've completed the registration.
- The auction runs for five days, with three days allocated for registration and two days for bidding.
- Place your bids in increments of ₹10,000 (some categories may allow smaller increments).
- The highest bidder will win the desired fancy number.
- After winning, you'll need to finalise the process.
Final Payment and Allotment
Once you win the auction, you'll need to complete the payment and obtain your number. Here's what to do next:
- If you place a winning bid, you'll receive a notification via SMS and email.
- Pay the remaining balance within five days.
- Collect your allotment letter, which remains valid for 90 days.
- Use this letter to finalise your vehicle registration.
- After that, your vehicle is ready to showcase its new fancy number plate.
Things to Remember While Applying for a Fancy Number Plate
Obtaining a fancy number plate in Gujarat requires following certain procedures and guidelines. To make the process smooth, adhering to rules on availability, payment, mandatory requirements, and compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act is essential.
- Verify Availability: You can check if your desired VIP or fancy number is available on the Parivahan website or by visiting a local RTO in Gujarat.
- Claim Refund if Needed: If you cannot get your chosen number plate even after a successful bid, you can claim a refund.
- Prompt Payment: Once you win the bid for your chosen number, complete the payment promptly.
- HSRP Requirement: Vehicles with fancy number plates must have High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP), as it’s compulsory for all vehicles.
- Compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act: Ensure full compliance with the Act of 1988, even if your vehicle is equipped with a fancy number plate.
Fees and Charges
The fees of obtaining a fancy number plate in Gujarat can vary based on the category of the number you select. The table below outlines the different categories of fancy numbers.
Category | Examples | Base Price for 2- wheeler | Base Price for 4-wheeler |
| Super Elite Numbers | 0001 | ₹5,000 | ₹5 lakh |
| Single Digit Numbers | 0002, 0003, 0004, 0005, 0006, 0007, 0008, 0009 | ₹5,000 - ₹2,000 | ₹3 lakh |
| Other Popular Numbers | 0786, 1111, 7777, 9999, 0010 to 0099 | ₹2,000 | ₹2 lakh |
| Semi-Fancy Numbers | 0100, 0222, 0333, 0444, 0555, 0666, 0777, 0888, 0999, etc. | ₹1,000 | ₹1 lakh |
How to Check Availability of Fancy Number Plates
To check the availability of a fancy number plate in Gujarat, follow these steps:
Step 1: Go to the MoRTH Website
- Visit the official Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) website.
Step 2: Click on 'Choice Number'
- Find and select the ‘Choice Number’ option on the website.
Step 3: Select Your State and RTO
- Choose Gujarat as your state, then select your specific Regional Transport Office (RTO) from the list provided.
Step 4: Check Available Numbers
- After selecting your state and RTO, you’ll see a list of available fancy numbers.
Step 5: Register and Bid
- If your desired number is available, you can proceed with the registration and subsequent bidding process by following the on-screen instructions.
Challenges and Considerations
Obtaining a fancy number plate in Gujarat can be a proud experience, though it involves certain challenges and factors to consider. Here's a detailed breakdown of these key aspects.
Competitive Bidding Process
- Rising Costs- The bidding for fancy number plates is fiercely competitive, frequently causing bidding prices to skyrocket. This can make it challenging for regular buyers to obtain their preferred numbers, as popular choices can reach prices in the lakhs.
- Transparency Concerns- The bidding process has faced scrutiny, with some questioning its transparency. Allegations of favouritism or manipulation have raised doubts about the fairness of the auction system.
Legal Compliance
- Improper Use of Plates: Some vehicle owners try to modify the appearance of their fancy number plates to make them more distinctive or attractive. However, this misuse can lead to legal issues, as the Gujarat Transport Department has strict rules on the format and design of number plates.
- Fines: The department strictly enforces these regulations, and any non-compliance—such as using unapproved fonts, sizes, or symbols—can result in a fine to the vehicle owner.
Customisation Restrictions
- Standard Format: Altering fancy number plates beyond the standard design is prohibited. According to the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, all plates must adhere to specific guidelines concerning the design, size, and font of the number plates.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Deviating from these regulations can lead to legal penalties, underscoring the necessity of following the prescribed format.
How to Transfer Fancy Number Plates
- If you want to transfer a fancy number plate from one vehicle to another, you must first obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the RTO. This step is essential for the transfer to be legally valid.
- The fee for transferring a fancy number plate varies based on the specific number and the RTO, typically ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand rupees.
- Note that transfers can only occur within the same state, and the number cannot be transferred to a different owner without following the correct legal procedures.
Conclusion
Fancy number plates in Gujarat combine tradition, status, and personalisation in a distinctive way. Acquiring these plates involves a structured process, including online registration, participation in an e-auction, and final payment. However, it’s essential to understand the legal requirements and costs associated with this pursuit. As the demand for unique plates grows, fueled by cultural and personal preferences, the Gujarat Transport Department's auctions will continue to attract those looking to make a statement on the roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
