How to Get a Fancy Number Plate in Tamil Nadu

What is a Fancy Number Plate in Tamil Nadu?

A VIP number plate in Tamil Nadu with unique numerals is another name for a fancy number plate or RTO choice numbers. These numbers usually stand out because they look premium, are easy to remember, or are considered lucky based on numerology or personal belief. 

In Tamil Nadu, numbers such as 0001, 1111, 3333, 7777, 8888, and 0786 are commonly preferred. While some people choose these numbers for belief or tradition, others simply like the neat and uncommon appearance they give to a vehicle. People spend lakhs of rupees on registration numbers to stand out from the traffic. Sometimes, they will pay a hefty price for an eye-catching number plate. As with other states, fancy number plates in Tamil Nadu, too, are officially allotted by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) through the government’s Parivahan portal. 

How to apply for a VIP Number Plate in Tamil Nadu

You can apply for a fancy number plate in Tamil Nadu either:

• Online through the Parivahan Sewa (MoRTH) portal – the most popular and easy option, or
   
• Offline by visiting the local RTO – suitable for those who prefer in-person assistance

Whatever method you choose, both follow the same rules and pricing structure.

Fancy Number Plate in Tamil Nadu - How to Apply Online?

The online method to apply for a fancy number plate booking in Tamil Nadu is one of the most convenient ways to apply. Here's what you need to do:

Step 1: Visit the Parivahan Fancy Number Portal

Go to the official Parivahan Sewa website and click on the ‘Online Services’ tab.

Step 2: Log In or Register

Log in with your User ID if you already have a Parivahan account. Or use your mobile number to register and receive an OTP for verification. 

Step 3: Search for Available Fancy Numbers

Click on the 'All Available (Fancy/Choice) Numbers' option and pick your vehicle type to get the fancy number list available in Tamil Nadu for your RTO.

Step 4: Pay Registration Fee

Pay the non-refundable registration fee to reserve your selected number for a limited time.

Step 5: Participate in the E-auction

If more than one applicant selects the same number as you, it goes into an online auction. In that case, you will need to bid for the number to win it.

Step 6: Make the Final Payment

If you win the auction, or if there is no bidding, pay the remaining amount within the given time.

Step 7: Assign the Number to Your Vehicle

You will receive an online allotment letter for your fancy number booking to be used during vehicle registration at the RTO.

Fancy Number Plate in Tamil Nadu - How to Apply Offline?

If you are someone who simply prefers doing application work in person, you can apply for a fancy number plate in Tamil Nadu by visiting your nearest RTO.

Step 1: Visit the Local RTO

Go to the RTO where your vehicle will be registered.

Step 2: Enquire About Available Fancy Numbers

Ask for the list of fancy or VIP numbers currently open for allotment.

Step 3: Submit the Application Form

Fill out the fancy number booking application form and submit it with the required documents:

• Identity proof
• Address proof
• Vehicle booking details (if applicable)

Step 4: Pay the Applicable Fees

Pay the registration or reservation fee at the RTO counter.

Step 5: Participate in Auction (If Required)

If multiple applicants want the same number, the RTO will guide you through the auction process.

Step 6: Complete Payment and Vehicle Registration

If you win the auction, pay the remaining amount within the deadline specified by the RTO. Once the payment is confirmed, the fancy number will be assigned to your vehicle during the registration process.

Documents Required for VIP Number Plates in Tamil Nadu

Before applying for a fancy or VIP number plate in Tamil Nadu, make sure you have the required documents ready. These are needed to verify your identity, vehicle details, and payment during the reservation or auction process.

The documents generally required include:

• A valid identity proof, such as an Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Driving Licence
   
• A registered mobile number for OTP verification on the Parivahan portal
   
• Vehicle booking receipt or invoice from the dealer (for new vehicles)
   
• Registration Certificate (RC) if applying for an already registered vehicle
   
• Address proof, if requested by the RTO
   
• Payment receipt for the reservation or auction amount
   
• Fancy number allotment letter issued after successful bidding

Eligibility for a Fancy Number Plate in Tamil Nadu

Getting a fancy number plate in Tamil Nadu is open to most vehicle owners, but only if a few basic conditions set by the transport authorities are met.

You are eligible if:

• Your vehicle is registered or will be registered with the Tamil Nadu RTO
   
• You are the registered owner or authorised applicant of the vehicle
   
• You have a valid identity and address proof
   
• The vehicle complies with RTO norms and the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988
   
• You apply through the official Parivahan portal or an authorised RTO
   
• All registration or auction-related payments are completed within the given timelines

Processing Time for Getting a VIP Number Plate in Tamil Nadu

The time taken to receive a fancy or VIP number plate in Tamil Nadu depends on whether the chosen number is allotted directly or goes through an e-auction.

Without e-auction:

If a fancy number has no competing applicants, it is usually allotted soon after payment confirmation. In such cases, the number is generally assigned within 2-4 working days.

With e-auction:

If multiple applicants select the same fancy number, it enters an e-auction that typically runs for 3-5 days. After the auction ends, the winning bidder must complete the payment within the specified deadline. Once payment is confirmed, the number is usually allotted within 5-10 working days.

After allotment, the fancy number is linked to the vehicle during registration, and the High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) is issued as per standard timelines.

Types of VIP Number Plates in Tamil Nadu

Fancy number plates or RTO choice numbers in Tamil Nadu are available in different patterns, so vehicle owners have options to choose from. These are based on popularity, appearance, and personal beliefs.

Below are the most common types of fancy number plates available in Tamil Nadu.

Super Elite Fancy Number Plates

Super elite fancy number plates in Tamil Nadu are the most exclusive and premium numbers available. These plates are released in extremely limited quantities in each RTO series. Because of their rarity and strong demand, they usually attract the highest bids during official e-auctions and are often seen as a symbol of prestige.

Example: 0001

Single-Digit Fancy Number Plates

Single-digit fancy number plates are among the most in-demand categories after super elite numbers. These numbers are rare and competitive, making them a popular choice among luxury vehicle owners. Their clean appearance and premium also bring in buyers who want something distinctive but a little more accessible than super elite numbers.

Example: 0002, 003, 0005, 0007

Double-Digit Fancy Number Plates

Double-digit fancy number plates are a good option for those looking for a special number without entering the high-cost single-digit category. These numbers are easier to book and often appeal to buyers who want a unique yet budget-friendly fancy number.

Example: 0022, 0077, 0099

Repeating Digits Fancy Number Plates

Repeating digit number plates show the same number repeated multiple times and are popular for both visual appeal and numerology-based beliefs. In Tamil Nadu, such numbers are often associated with good fortune and are easy to remember, which keeps demand consistently high.

Example: 1111, 3333, 7777, 8888, 9999

Palindrome Fancy Number Plates

Mirror sequence fancy number plates, also known as palindrome fancy number plates, tend to read the same left to right and vice versa. This gives them a clean and balanced look and greatly appeals to people who like symmetry and uniqueness.

Example: 1001, 1221, 2112, 9009

Sequential Fancy Number Plates

Sequential fancy number plates follow a natural numerical order, giving them a neat and balanced look. These numbers are chosen mainly for their symmetry and simplicity rather than superstition, making them a popular choice among buyers who are looking for something more grounded and practical.

Example: 1234, 2345, 4567

Lucky or Culturally Significant Fancy Number Plates

Many vehicle owners in Tamil Nadu select fancy numbers based on personal beliefs, numerology, or cultural significance. These numbers may not always follow a visual pattern, but are valued for the meaning they hold for the owner.

Example: 0007, 0108, 5050

Fees for Four-Wheeler Fancy Number Plates in Tamil Nadu

The cost of a fancy or VIP number plate for four-wheelers in Tamil Nadu depends on the category of the number and the demand during the auction. The table below gives a list of fancy numbers and the estimated base prices set before bidding begins.

Fees for Two-Wheeler Fancy Number Plates in Tamil Nadu

Fancy number plates for two-wheelers in Tamil Nadu are comparatively cheaper than those for a four-wheeler. However, the final cost could increase depending on the auction.

How to check the availability of a VIP Number Plate in Tamil Nadu?

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to find out if a fancy number plate is available in Tamil Nadu:

Step 1: Visit the Parivahan Website

Go to the Parivahan portal.

Step 2: Choose "Choice Number".

Look for and click the 'Choice Number' option on the website.

Step 3: Choose State and RTO

Select Tamil Nadu as your state, then choose your respective Regional Transport Office (RTO) from the provided list.

Step 4: View Available Numbers

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

Step 5: Proceed with Registration

If your preferred number is available, you can proceed with the registration and bidding process by following the instructions on the website.

What is an E-auction for a Fancy Number Plate in Tamil Nadu?

An e-auction is an online bidding process conducted through the Parivahan portal when multiple applicants want the same fancy number.

Here’s what an e-auction for a fancy number plate in Tamil Nadu would be like:

• Registration period: 3 days
   
• Bidding period: 2 days
   
• Bidding increments usually start at ₹10,000
   
• The highest bidder wins the number
   
• The remaining amount must be paid within the stated deadline

If payment is not completed on time, the number may be released again.

Things to consider before applying for a Fancy Number Plate in Tamil Nadu

Before applying for a fancy number plate in Tamil Nadu, it’s important to be aware of a few key rules and practical points to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Limited availability:

 Fancy numbers are released in specific RTO series, and popular combinations are booked quickly. It’s best to check availability early so you don’t miss out on your preferred number.

Non-refundable registration fee: 

The registration fee paid to reserve a fancy number is non-refundable. Even if you lose the auction or decide not to proceed further, the amount will not be returned.

Strict payment deadlines:

 If you win the auction, the remaining amount must be paid within the given time frame. Missing the deadline can lead to cancellation of the allotment.

Mandatory HSRP:

 All vehicles in Tamil Nadu must use High Security Registration Plates (HSRP), including those with fancy numbers. This requirement applies to both new and older (registered before April 2019) vehicles.

Compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988: 

Having a fancy number plate does not exempt you from legal rules. The number plate must follow standard guidelines for size, font, colour, and format. Any unauthorised modification can attract penalties.

Budget planning: 

Popular fancy numbers often attract multiple bidders, which can push the final price much higher than the base amount. Fix a budget before entering the auction to avoid overspending.

Transfer restrictions: 

Fancy number plates are linked to a specific vehicle and owner. In Tamil Nadu, transferring or reselling a fancy number requires approval from the RTO along with a valid No Objection Certificate (NOC).

Frequently Asked Questions

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