Fancy Number Plate in Odisha

What is a Fancy Number Plate

A fancy number plate, or a VIP number plate, features special or unique numbers. These can include sequences like '0007,' '1234,' or culturally significant numbers like '0786.' Many people invest substantial money, sometimes lakhs of rupees, to secure these distinctive registration numbers to make their vehicles stand out. In Odisha, 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 Odisha involves several key steps, beginning with online registration and concluding with winning the number at an auction. Here's the process:

Online Registration

Start by registering on the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) website, which is the initial step in participating 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 must complete the payment and obtain your number. Here's what to do next:

• If you win the bidding, 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

Applying for a fancy number plate in Odisha requires understanding specific guidelines to ensure a smooth, compliant process. From checking availability to meeting payment deadlines, here’s a guide to help you secure your preferred number successfully.

• Verify Availability: Check the Parivahan website or visit a local Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Odisha to see if your preferred fancy or VIP number is available. This first inspection helps prevent subsequent, needless issues.
   
• On-Time Payment: Ensure you are paid immediately if you win the bid for your desired number. To guarantee your reservation, payment must be made promptly. Failure to do so may result in the loss of your selected number.
   
• Claim Refund if Unsuccessful: You can request a refund if, even after winning the auction, you do not obtain the selected license plate. This measure guarantees the allocation process's fairness and openness.
   
• Required High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) Installation: All cars with ostentatious license plates must have HPRP installed. The protocol for national safety and standardization includes this need.
   
• Observe the Motor Vehicle Act: All automobiles must abide by the rules outlined in the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, regardless of how elegant each plate is. Adherence to these regulations is necessary to prevent penalties and guarantee traffic safety.

Fees and Charges

The cost of obtaining a fancy number plate in Odisha varies based on the category of the number you select. The table below outlines the different categories of fancy numbers:

How to Check Availability of Fancy Number Plates

To check the availability of a fancy number plate in Odisha, 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 Odisha 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 registering and bidding by following the on-screen instructions.

Challenges and Considerations

Obtaining a fancy number plate in Odisha can be an exciting experience, though it involves specific challenges and factors to consider. Here's a detailed breakdown of these critical aspects:

Competitive Bidding Process

• Rising Costs: The bidding for fancy number plates is fiercely competitive, frequently causing 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 Odisha 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 penalties.

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 design, size, and font guidelines.
   
• 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

• You must first obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the RTO to transfer a fancy number plate from one vehicle to another.
   
• 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 Odisha reflect status, and personalisation distinctively. 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 Odisha Transport Department's auctions will continue to attract those looking to make a statement on the roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

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