How to Get a Fancy Number Plate in Maharashtra

What is a Fancy Number Plate in Maharashtra?

A fancy number plate in Maharashtra is a vehicle registration number that is considered special or desirable due to its pattern, repetition, or numerical significance or meaning. They are also sometimes referred to as VIP number plates or RTO choice number plates. Unlike standard registration numbers that are randomly allotted, fancy numbers are intentionally chosen by vehicle owners.

Common examples include numbers like 0001, 0007, 0786, 1111, 2222, or 9999, which are associated with luck, religion, or prestige. Because these numbers are limited in availability and high in demand, they usually come at a premium price and are allocated through an official bidding or reservation process. In Maharashtra, fancy number plates are issued only through the authorised transport system and must comply with the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

How to Apply For a VIP Number Plate in Maharashtra 

If you’re planning to apply for an RTO choice number plate or fancy number plate in Maharashtra, there are two official methods available. Both methods follow government-approved guidelines and involve checking availability, paying the required fee, and participating in an e-auction if necessary. The methods are:

• Online method through the Parivahan website, which is managed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)
   
• Offline method by visiting the local Regional Transport Office (RTO)

Fancy Number Plate in Maharashtra - How to Apply Online? 

The online application process for a fancy number plate booking in Maharashtra is conducted through the official Parivahan portal, managed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

Step 1: Visit the Parivahan website

Go to the Parivahan portal and select the option for fancy number booking.

Step 2: Register using vehicle details

Create an account using your mobile number and enter basic details such as your state (Maharashtra), RTO, and vehicle category (two-wheeler or four-wheeler).

Step 3: Check fancy number availability

Browse the list of available fancy numbers for your selected RTO series.

Step 4: Pay the registration fee

To reserve a number plate of your choice or participate in an auction, a non-refundable registration fee must be paid online.

Step 5: Participate in the e-auction (if applicable)

If multiple applicants choose the same number, an online auction is conducted over a fixed time period.

Step 6: Make the final payment

Once you win the auction or successfully reserve the number plate of your choice, pay the remaining amount within the specified deadline.

Step 7: Assign the number to your vehicle

After payment confirmation, the fancy number is linked to your vehicle registration and issued by the RTO.

Fancy Number Plate in Maharashtra - How to Apply Offline?  

For applicants who are not comfortable using online portals, the offline method to apply for fancy number plates in Maharashtra is also available through the local RTO.

Step 1: Visit the concerned RTO

Go to the RTO where your vehicle will be registered.

Step 2: Request fancy number details

Ask for the fancy number list or VIP numbers for the current series.

Step 3: Fill out the application form

Submit the required form along with identity proof and vehicle-related documents.

Step 4: Pay the registration or bidding fee

Fees must be paid as per the number category. Payment modes may vary by RTO.

Step 5: Participate in bidding (if required)

If the number has multiple applicants, the RTO facilitates the bidding process.

Step 6: Complete registration

After successful allotment, the number is officially assigned to your vehicle.

Documents Required For VIP Number Plates in Maharashtra

The paperwork for a fancy number plate in Maharashtra is minimal, but missing even one document can slow things down. Here’s a quick look at what documents you’ll need to complete your application.

• Valid photo ID (Aadhaar card, PAN card, or driving licence)
   
• Active mobile number (for OTP verification during online registration)
   
• Vehicle purchase proof (invoice, booking receipt, or allotment letter from the dealer)
   
• Dealer details (if the vehicle is being registered through a showroom)
   
• Address proof (if different from your ID document)
   
• Online payment receipt for fancy number registration or auction fees

Eligibility For a Fancy Number Plate in Maharashtra

The good news is that you don’t need any special VIP status to apply for a fancy number plate in Maharashtra. As long as a few basic conditions are met, anyone can participate.

• You must be the vehicle owner (or authorised to apply on their behalf).
   
• The vehicle should be new or pending registration in Maharashtra.
   
• All registration and bidding fees must be paid within the specified timelines.
   
• If you win an e-auction, the full amount must be cleared before the deadline.
• The fancy number must be assigned within the same vehicle category (car to car, bike to bike).

Processing Time For Getting a VIP Number Plate in Maharashtra

The time required to get a VIP number plate in Maharashtra depends on whether your chosen number is directly available or goes through an e-auction. Here’s what you can generally expect.

Without e-auction

Usually takes 2-5 working days, assuming payment is completed, and documents are in order.

With e-auction

Generally takes 7-14 days, covering registration, bidding window, winner declaration, and final payment.

Delays usually happen only if payments are missed or the vehicle registration isn’t completed within the allotted time.

Types of VIP Number Plates in Maharashtra  

There are many kinds of VIP number plates in Maharashtra, and they are categorised into the following.

Single-Digit Numbers

These include numbers like 0001, 0003, or 0009. Since only one such number is available in each RTO series, they are extremely rare and usually attract the highest bids.

Double-Digit Repeating Numbers

Examples include 0011, 0022, or 0099. These numbers are popular because they look clean and premium, while still being more affordable than single-digit options.

Triple-Digit Repeating Numbers

Numbers such as 0111, 0333, or 0777 fall into this category. They are often considered lucky and are in high demand during auctions.

Four-Digit Repeating Numbers

Examples like 1111, 2222, or 9999 are among the most sought-after fancy numbers due to their symmetry and strong visual appeal.

Special or Pattern-Based Numbers

These include numbers like 0001, 0786, 5050, or 1212. Many people choose them for personal, cultural, or symbolic reasons, making them popular choices in e-auctions.

Palindrome Numbers

Palindrome numbers are those that read the same whether you read them left to right or right to left. Numbers such as 1221, 3663, and 1001 are examples of this. These are less common, but some people choose them for their uniqueness and symmetry.

Fees For Four-Wheeler Fancy Number Plates in Maharashtra

The cost of a fancy number plate in Maharashtra differs greatly based on the kind of number selected. Here is an estimate of the cost of fancy number plates for four-wheelers in Maharashtra.

Fees For Two-Wheeler Fancy Number Plates in Maharashtra

Though fancy number plates for bikes come at a lower price than cars, they follow similar logic when it comes to pricing, i.e., depending on the number category and popularity. Here is an estimate of the cost of fancy number plates for two-wheelers in Maharashtra.

How to Check The Availability of a VIP Number Plate in Maharashtra

Checking the availability of a VIP number plate or fancy number plate in Maharashtra is fairly simple; all you have to do is follow these steps below.

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 Maharashtra as your state, then choose your respective Regional Transport Office (RTO) from the fancy number list provided.

Step 5: View Available Numbers

After selecting your state and RTO, you can see a list of available fancy numbers.

What is an E-auction For a Fancy Number Plate in Maharashtra?

An e-auction for a fancy number plate in Maharashtra 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 Maharashtra 

While getting a VIP number plate is exciting, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before applying for one.

Compliance With Legal Rules

Fancy number plates must follow the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Additionally, all vehicles with fancy number plates are required to comply with national safety standards. Which means any unauthorised font, size, colour, or spacing can lead to penalties.

Vehicle Registration

The fancy number plate, like any number plate, is registered to a vehicle. If there is a delay while you purchase a vehicle or any documentation issues come up, it can cause issues during allotment.

HSRP Number Plate

An HSRP (High-Security Registration Plate) is mandatory for vehicles with fancy numbers. Not having an HSRP number plate on your vehicle can result in fines or penalties.

Payment Deadlines

The process follows strict deadlines. If you miss the payment deadline, then you lose the opportunity to secure the fancy number, and it goes up for auction again.

Non-Transferable

Fancy number plates can usually be transferred to another vehicle in the same state, subject to RTO approval. Inter-state transfers are generally not allowed. 

Budget Awareness

The final cost of the fancy number plate you want will depend on how many people are bidding for the same number. Keep your budget in mind before you apply and stick to it.

Non-Refundable Registration Fee

The registration fee you pay is non-refundable, even if you don't win the auction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore more:

RC Status Chandigarh

RC Status Karnataka

RC Status in Punjab

RC Status in Rajasthan