Fancy Number Plate in Himachal Pradesh

What is a Fancy Number Plate

A fancy number plate, also known as a VIP number plate, features specific numbers that are considered prestigious or lucky. In Himachal Pradesh, vehicle owners often choose numbers that hold cultural or personal significance, such as '0001' or '0786', paying large sums of money to obtain them. The process of acquiring these plates is regulated by the state's Regional Transport Office (RTO), and these numbers are usually allotted through an auction process.

How to Get a Fancy Number Plate

To obtain a fancy number plate in Himachal Pradesh, you need to go through a well-defined process involving online registration and participating in an e-auction.

Online Registration

The first step in acquiring a fancy number plate is to register online via the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) website. Here's how to begin:

• Visit the MoRTH website and sign up as a public user.
   
• Log in to your account.
   
• Select your desired fancy number from the list provided.
   
• Pay the registration fee to reserve your preferred number.

E-Auction Process

After completing the online registration, the next step is to participate in the auction:

• Register for the e-auction after selecting your desired number.
   
• The auction lasts for five days—three days for registration and two for bidding.
   
• Place your bids in increments (usually ₹10,000, though this may vary).
   
• The highest bidder wins the number.

Final Payment and Allotment

Once you win the auction:

• You will receive a notification via SMS or email.
   
• Complete the remaining payment within five days.
   
• Obtain your allocation letter, which is valid for 90 days.
   
• Use this letter to register your vehicle with the newly acquired fancy number.

Things to Remember While Applying for a Fancy Number Plate

Applying for a fancy number plate in Himachal Pradesh involves similar steps and regulations to ensure a smooth process and adherence to state guidelines. Here are key points to keep in mind:

1. Check the Availability of the Preferred Number Plate
   Verify the availability of your desired VIP or fancy number on the official Parivahan website or by visiting a nearby RTO office in Himachal Pradesh. This step is crucial to confirm that your chosen number is available for bidding.
    
2. Immediate Payment Upon Winning Bid
   Make the payment immediately after winning the bid for your preferred fancy number plate. Delays in payment could lead to forfeiting your selected number.
    
3. Refund Policy if Number is Not Granted
   If, after winning the bid, you are not allotted the chosen number plate, you can claim a refund. Make sure the issuing authority follows the correct refund procedure.
    
4. Mandatory High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP)
   All vehicles, including those with fancy number plates, must have High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP). This is a mandatory requirement for all types of vehicles in Himachal Pradesh.
    
5. Compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988
   Having a fancy number plate does not exempt you from following the regulations under the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. Ensure that your number plate complies with all legal standards and guidelines set by this Act.

Fees and Charges

The cost of acquiring a fancy number plate varies based on the type of number chosen. Here is a breakdown of the fees for different categories:

How to Check the Availability of a Fancy Number Plate

Here's a step-by-step guide to checking the availability of a fancy number plate in Himachal Pradesh:

Step 1: Access the MoRTH Website

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

Step 2: Choose 'Choice Number'

• Locate and click on the 'Choice Number' option on the homepage.

Step 3: Select State and RTO

• Choose Himachal Pradesh as your state and select your specific Regional Transport Office (RTO) from the provided list.

Step 4: Check Available Numbers

• Once you've selected your state and RTO, a list of available fancy numbers will be displayed.

Step 5: Complete Registration

• If your desired number is available, follow the on-screen instructions to proceed with registration and bidding.

Fancy Number Plate: Challenges and Considerations

Obtaining a fancy number plate in Himachal Pradesh can be an exciting experience, but it also presents several challenges and factors to consider. Here's an organised breakdown of these aspects.

Competitive Bidding Process

• High Prices: The bidding process for fancy number plates is highly competitive, and prices can escalate quickly, especially for popular numbers.
   
• Transparency Issues: As in other states, there have been concerns over the transparency of the auction process, with some questioning the fairness of bids.

Legal Compliance

• Misuse of Plates: Altering the design of a fancy number plate to enhance its appearance is illegal. The Himachal Pradesh RTO has strict rules on the format, design, and font of number plates.
   
• Penalties: Non-compliance with these rules can result in fines and penalties.

Customisation Restrictions

• Standard Format: Customisation beyond the standard format is not allowed. The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, mandates specific design, size, and font guidelines for number plates.
   
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Any deviation from these standards can attract legal penalties.

How to Transfer a Fancy Number Plate

Transferring a fancy number plate to another vehicle requires obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the RTO. The cost of transferring a fancy number plate depends on the specific number and the RTO. It usually falls within the range of a few hundred to a few thousand rupees. The transfer process can only be carried out within the state, and you cannot transfer the number to a different owner without following legal procedures.

Conclusion

Fancy number plates in Himachal Pradesh symbolise status and personalisation, acquired through a structured process involving online registration and auctions. These plates allow vehicle owners to make a unique statement on the road, but the process includes competitive bidding and adherence to strict legal guidelines. For those in Himachal Pradesh seeking a distinctive number, following the steps carefully and complying with legal requirements is essential. Whether driven by status, superstition, or personal preference, securing a fancy number plate offers a way to reflect your individuality.

Frequently Asked Questions

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