What is a Fancy Number Plate in Gujarat?
A fancy number plate in Gujarat is a vehicle registration number that stands out from regular series numbers because of its unique or visually appealing pattern. These numbers are often easy to remember and may carry emotional, cultural, or symbolic significance or meaning for the owner. Some examples of fancy number plates include single-digit numbers like 1, repeating numbers such as 1111 or 2222, sequential numbers like 1234, or even numbers linked to personal milestones, such as a birth date or anniversary.
In Gujarat, fancy number plates are officially issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and must follow the rules laid down under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Any number that is in high demand is allocated only through the government’s approved auction process.
How to Apply For a VIP Number Plate in Gujarat
If you’re planning to apply for a fancy number plate in Gujarat, you can do so through two methods:
- Online method through the Parivahan (MoRTH) website.
- Offline method by visiting the local RTO
Both methods ultimately go through the official transport system, but the online option is generally faster and more convenient. Before applying, you should have basic details ready, such as your vehicle information, identity proof, and payment method for registration and bidding fees.
Fancy Number Plate in Gujarat - How to Apply Online?
Applying online for a fancy number plate in Gujarat is the most preferred method, especially for popular numbers that are allotted through e-auctions. The process is managed through the Parivahan portal under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Step 1: Visit the Parivahan website
Go to the official Parivahan fancy number portal and select the option for 'Fancy Number Booking'.
Step 2: Register using your details
Create an account using your mobile number and OTP verification.
Step 3: Select Gujarat and your RTO
Choose Gujarat as your state and select the relevant RTO where your vehicle will be registered.
Step 4: Check available fancy numbers
Browse through the fancy number list to see what is available and select the one you are interested in.
Step 5: Pay the registration fee
Pay the non-refundable registration fee to participate in the auction or reservation process.
Step 6: Participate in the e-auction (if applicable)
If multiple applicants choose the same number, the number will go into the e-auction. You can place bids during the auction window.
Step 7: Make the final payment
If you win the auction, pay the remaining amount within the specified time to confirm the allotment.
Step 8: Assign the number to your vehicle
Once allotted, the fancy number plate of your choice will be linked to your vehicle registration.
Fancy Number Plate in Gujarat - How to Apply Offline?
Those who are more comfortable handling the process in person can visit the RTO and apply for a fancy number plate booking offline in Gujarat.
Step 1: Visit your local RTO
Go to the RTO where your vehicle is registered or will be registered.
Step 2: Request information on fancy numbers
Ask for the list of available fancy numbers and applicable fees.
Step 3: Submit an application form
Fill out the fancy number booking application form with your personal and vehicle details.
Step 4: Pay the registration fee
Make the required payment at the RTO counter.
Step 5: Participate in bidding (if required)
If the number plate of your choice has multiple applicants, the RTO will guide you through the auction process.
Step 6: Complete vehicle registration
Once the number is allotted, it will be assigned during the vehicle registration process.
Documents Required For VIP Number Plates in Gujarat
It's always best to keep all important documents ready before you apply for a VIP number plate or fancy number plate in Gujarat. The documents you will generally need are:
- A valid identity proof (such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, or passport)
- Address proof (Aadhaar card, utility bill, or voter ID)
- Vehicle purchase documents, including invoice or sale certificate (Form 21)
- Insurance certificate for the vehicle
- Temporary registration details (for new vehicles, if applicable)
- PUC certificate (usually required for existing vehicles)
- Your mobile number, as OTP verification is used during online applications
Eligibility For a Fancy Number Plate in Gujarat
Vehicle owners can apply for a fancy number plate in Gujarat, as long as they meet a few basic conditions set by the Transport Department. In general, you’re eligible if:
- You are the registered owner of the vehicle or are in the process of registering a new one
- Your vehicle is being registered at a Gujarat RTO
- You have a valid identity and address proof
- You complete the registration fee payment for the fancy number
- You participate in the e-auction (if the selected number has multiple applicants)
- You agree to follow all rules related to the number plate format and display
Processing Time For Getting a VIP Number Plate in Gujarat
The time it takes to get a VIP or fancy number plate in Gujarat depends on whether the number is allotted directly or through an e-auction.
If there is no auction (single applicant):
When a fancy number has no competing applicants, it can be allotted within 2-5 working days, provided all documents and payments are completed on time.
If the number goes for e-auction:
For popular numbers, the process usually takes longer due to bidding schedules. Here’s an estimated timeline:
- Registration for the auction: 1-2 days
- Auction window: around 3-5 days
- Result declaration and final payment: 1-2 days
- Number reservation and vehicle assignment: another few working days
Overall, the complete process through e-auction usually takes 7-14 days, depending on payment timelines and RTO processing speed.
Types of VIP Number Plates in Gujarat
Each category of fancy number plates has limited numbers in every RTO choice number series, which is why some options are more in demand than others. Let's look at the types of fancy number plates in Gujarat.
Palindrome Numbers
These are numbers that read the same backwards or forwards. For example, 1001, 0990, 9559, etc. These are extremely rare and visually aesthetic.
Single-Digit Numbers
These are the rarest fancy numbers since only a few are available in each registration series. Because of their exclusivity, single-digit numbers usually attract the highest bids during auctions. For example, 1, 2, 7, etc.
Double-Digit Numbers
Double-digit numbers are popular for their neat and symmetrical look, for example, 11, 22, 99. They are easier to get than single-digit numbers and are generally more affordable, while still feeling special.
Triple-Digit Numbers
These numbers offer a good mix of uniqueness and reasonable pricing. Numbers like 111, 333 are commonly chosen by buyers who want a fancy number without entering very high bidding ranges.
Repeating Numbers
Examples of repeating numbers are 4444, 7777, etc., stand out visually and are often associated with luck or positive symbolism. Because of their popularity, they can attract competitive bidding during auctions.
Special or Meaningful Numbers
Some numbers carry cultural, religious, or personal significance or meaning, for example, 0001 or 0786. These numbers may fall under different categories, but their final price depends on how many people bid for them during the auction.
Fees For Four-Wheeler Fancy Number Plates in Gujarat
Fancy number plate fees for four-wheelers in Gujarat depend on the number’s popularity and category. The table below gives an estimate of the starting prices for different types of fancy numbers.
Fees For Two-Wheeler Fancy Number Plates in Gujarat
Two-wheeler fancy number plate fees in Gujarat vary depending on the category and demand for the number. The table below gives an approximate idea of the starting prices.
How to Check The Availability of a VIP Number Plate in Gujarat
Checking the availability of a VIP number plate or fancy number in Gujarat is fairly simple; all you have to do is:
Step 1: Visit the Official Government Website
Go to the Parivahan Sewa website and navigate to the 'Online Services' dropdown list.
Step 2: Select 'Fancy Number Booking'
Look for the 'Fancy Number Booking' from the Online Services list and click on it.
Step 3: Select Fancy/Choice Numbers Option
Click on the 'All Available (Fancy/Choice) Numbers' from the Fancy Services options.
Step 4: Choose State and RTO
Select Gujarat as your state, then choose your respective Regional Transport Office (RTO) from the provided fancy number list.
Step 5: View Available Numbers
After selecting your state and RTO, you can see a list of available fancy numbers or RTO choice numbers.
What is an E-auction For a Fancy Number Plate in Gujarat?
An e-auction for a VIP number plate in Gujarat is an online bidding process conducted by the transport department for high-demand fancy numbers. The process for fancy number plates is carried out via the Parivahan portal, which operates under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
Here’s how it works
- Fancy numbers are listed for a fixed auction period.
- The auction lasts five days - three days of registration and two days of actual bidding.
- Interested applicants place bids online in increments of ₹10,000 (note that some categories may allow smaller increments).
- The highest bidder wins the number.
- The winner must pay the final bid amount within the stipulated time.
- If payment isn’t completed on time, the number is re-listed for auction.
Things to Consider Before Applying For a Fancy Number Plate in Gujarat
While owning a special number can be exciting, being aware of certain legal and practical aspects of the process of applying for a fancy number plate in Gujarat can help you avoid unnecessary surprises later.
Set a clear budget before bidding
Fancy number plates, especially popular ones like single-digit or repeating numbers, often start at a base price but can quickly become expensive during an e-auction. It’s a good idea to decide how much you’re willing to spend in advance and stick to that limit while bidding.
Remember that registration fees are non-refundable
To participate in the auction, you must pay a registration fee. This amount is not refunded, even if you don’t win the auction. Keep this in mind if you plan to bid on multiple numbers or take part in several auction rounds.
Be mindful of payment deadlines
If you win the auction, you’ll need to pay the remaining amount within the specified time. Missing this deadline can lead to the cancellation of the allotment, and the amount already paid may be forfeited. Acting promptly after winning is crucial.
Ensure compliance with legal rules
Once the number is allotted, the number plate must follow the guidelines laid down under the Motor Vehicles Act. This includes using the approved font, size, colour, and format. Any unauthorised modification can attract fines or penalties.
HSRP number plate is compulsory
Even if you secure a fancy number, your vehicle must still be fitted with a High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) as per current transport rules in Gujarat. Make sure you complete the HSRP installation after your fancy number is allotted to stay compliant and avoid traffic penalties.
Understand transfer and retention rules
Fancy number plates can usually be transferred to another vehicle owned by you within Gujarat, but only after getting the required approvals from the RTO. Transfers to vehicles registered in other states may require special permissions and are not always permitted.
Check availability early
Popular numbers are limited and get booked quickly. Checking availability in advance gives you a better chance of planning your application or preparing for an upcoming auction.
Apply only when your vehicle details are ready
Because fancy numbers are connected to a particular vehicle and its registration, incomplete paperwork can slow things down. Make sure everything is ready before you apply.
Frequently Asked Questions