What is a Fancy Number Plate
A fancy number plate in Sikkim is similar to those in other parts of the nation. Usually, the numbers on these plates are unusual or significant to a particular culture. Super elite or most prestigious numbers, such as "0001", are often reserved for people prepared to pay a high price. Demand is particularly strong for numbers with cultural, religious, or personal significance, such as '9999', '1111', and '0786'.
These number plates serve as status symbols in addition to serving as vehicle IDs. Having a distinctive number plate can help car owners stand out and express their individuality in an area that values individual expression and local customs.
How to Get a Fancy Number Plate
You must enter an online e-auction held by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to receive a fancy number plate in Sikkim. There are multiple steps in the process, which we will outline for you:
Online Registration
The very first step is to register on the portal.
- Go to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) website to get started.
- Sign up as a public user to access the auction system.
- Verify your account by logging in after registering.
- Go through the list of possible fancy numbers and pick your favourite.
- You can reserve your preferred number once the necessary registration fee has been paid.
After you've completed these steps, you can move on to the auction.
E-Auction Process
You can participate in the e-auction and bid to win your favourite fancy number once you've registered.
- After registering successfully, participate in the online auction.
- Three days are set aside for registration, and two days are dedicated to bidding during the normal five-day auction.
- Though some numbers allow smaller increments, bids can be placed in multiples of ₹10,000.
- After the auction, the highest bidder receives the number.
After that, all that's left to do is finish the final step: making the payment and getting the selected number.
Final Payment and Allotment
If you win the e-auction, you'll need to complete a few more steps to secure the fancy number:
- You will receive a notification via SMS and email if you're the highest bidder.
- Pay the remaining balance within 5 days to confirm the purchase.
- Collect your allotment letter, which is valid for 90 days.
- Use this letter to complete your vehicle registration, and you can officially display your new fancy number plate.
There you have your desired fancy number plate!
Things to Remember While Applying for a Fancy Number Plate
In order to guarantee a seamless procedure and adherence to state legislation, applying for a fancy number plate in Sikkim requires a number of crucial stages and restrictions. The following are essential things to remember in order to complete this process properly:
- Verify if the preferred number plate is available: Visit a local RTO office in Sikkim or check the official Parivahan website to confirm if the VIP or fancy number you want is available. To make sure the number you have selected is up for bid, you must do this step.
- Payment Right Away After Winning Bid: When you win the auction for the fancy number plate of your choice, you can pay right away. Your chosen number may be forfeited if payment is delayed.
- Refund Policy if Number Is Not Granted: You are entitled to a refund if, after winning the auction, you do not receive the selected number plate. Verify that the issuing authority adheres to the correct refund protocol.
- High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) Requirement: All vehicles, including those with custom number plates, are required to have HSRPs. In Sikkim, this is a must for all kinds of vehicles.
- Adherence to the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988: You are not exempt from following the rules of the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 just because you have a fancy number plate. Verify that your licence plate conforms with all legal requirements and specifications established by this Act.
Fees and Other Charges
The cost of obtaining a fancy number plate in Sikkim also depends on the category of the number you choose. Here's a table outlining the categories of fancy numbers and their costs:
Category | Examples | Base Price for 2-wheeler and 4-wheeler |
| Super Elite Numbers | 0001 | ₹5 lakhs |
| Single Digit Numbers | 0002, 0003, 0004, 0005, 0006, 0007, 0008, 0009 | ₹3 lakhs |
| Other Popular Numbers | 0786, 1111, 7777, 9999, Numbers between 0010 to 0099 | ₹2 lakhs |
| Semi-Fancy Numbers | 0100, 0222, 0333, 0444, 0555, 0666, 0777, 0888, 0999, etc. | ₹1 lakh |
How to Check Availability of Fancy Number Plates
This step-by-step instruction explains how to check the availability of fancy number plates in Sikkim:
- Step 1: Open the MoRTH's Website
Access 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 main page.
- Step 3: Choose Sikkim and Your Regional Transport Office (RTO)
Select Sikkim as your state, then choose the appropriate Regional Transport Office (RTO).
- Step 4: Explore Available Fancy Numbers
You will then see a list of fancy numbers available for selection.
- Step 5: Initiate Registration Process
Once you find a number you like, simply follow the website's instructions to finish signing up and buying on the website to complete your registration and bidding process.
Fancy Number Plate: Challenges and Considerations
Getting a customised number plate in Sikkim can be a time-consuming and difficult task. These are some of the challenges and considerations that should be taken into account:
Competitive Bidding Process
- Increasing Costs: Sikkim faces fierce competition for fancy number plates, just like other states, particularly for well-liked or auspicious numbers. Due to the strong demand, prices sometimes rise. Bids have been known to exceed millions of rupees.
- Transparency Issues: There have been issues with the transparency of the bidding procedure. The auction procedure may appear unfair to participants since some bidders have expressed concerns about potential favouritism or manipulation.
Legal Compliance
- Misuse of Plates: In an attempt to give their fancy number plates a more distinctive look, some car owners have tried to alter them. The Sikkim Transport Department maintains stringent laws regarding the design and format of number plates. Hence, making such adjustments may result in legal complications.
- Penalties: The government closely monitors compliance and imposes strict penalties for any violations of approved standards, such as using unapproved fonts, sizes, or symbols. This ensures that all number plates adhere to the established regulations.
Customisation Restrictions
- Standard Format: The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 forbids personalising fancy number plates in any way beyond the basic design. The amount of permissible personalisation is restricted because the plates have to adhere to certain specifications for size, text, and design.
- Fines for Non-Compliance: There are legal ramifications when a number plate is altered or deviated from the guidelines. Adherence to the official criteria is essential to prevent any problems with law enforcement.
How to Transfer Fancy Number Plates
If you decide to move your fancy number plate from one car to another, there is a certain method you must follow:
- Acquire a No Objection Certificate (NOC): The RTO where the number was first registered is where you must obtain an NOC. This document demonstrates that the licence plate is free of pending legal matters or debts.
- Cover the Transfer Fee: The popularity of the number and the RTO's policies can affect transfer fees. These costs often vary from a few hundred to several thousand rupees.
- Finalise the Transfer: The number plate can be formally transferred to your new car once you've paid the money and obtained the required paperwork.
Conclusion
In Sikkim, fancy number plates serve not only as identification for vehicles but also as status symbols and expressions of personal beliefs. Obtaining a unique registration number enhances your vehicle's visibility on the road, but the process involves participating in a competitive e-auction and adhering to legal requirements.
Whether you seek a unique licence plate for personal expression, cultural beliefs, or social prestige, the system in Sikkim provides a straightforward method to obtain one that reflects your individuality. By understanding the procedures and requirements, you can navigate the process effectively and ensure your new plate aligns with your style.
Frequently Asked Questions
