What is a Fancy Number Plate
A fancy number plate, often called a VIP number plate, showcases unique or significant numerical sequences with special meaning to the owner. These plates can feature patterns like ‘0001’ and ‘9999’ or numbers considered culturally or personally important, such as ‘0786’ or ‘1111’. In Telangana, similar to other states, individuals are willing to spend substantial amounts, sometimes into lakhs of rupees, to secure these exclusive registration numbers to distinguish their vehicles and reflect their status. The process of obtaining a fancy number plate in Telangana is managed by the Regional Transport Authority (RTA).
How to Get a Fancy Number Plate
Acquiring a fancy number plate in Telangana follows a structured process, including online registration and e-auction participation.
Online Registration
The first step is registering online through the Transport Department’s official website or the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) portal. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the Transport Department or MoRTH website.
- Create an account as a public user if you don’t have one.
- Log in to your account.
- Select your desired fancy number from the available list.
- Pay the registration fee to reserve your number and proceed to the auction.
E-Auction Process
Once registered, you can take part in the e-auction, where you bid to win your preferred fancy number:
- Join the e-auction after successful registration.
- The auction typically runs over five days, with three days for registration and two days for bidding.
- You can place bids in increments of ₹10,000, though some numbers may allow smaller increments.
- The highest bidder wins the number at the end of the auction period.
Final Payment and Allotment
If you win the e-auction, you’ll need to complete a few more steps to secure the fancy number:
- Receive a notification via SMS and email if you’re the highest bidder.
- Pay the remaining balance within five 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.
Things to Remember While Applying for a Fancy Number Plate
Securing a fancy number plate in Hyderabad involves thoughtful preparation and meeting specific requirements. From setting a budget to submitting the right documents, here’s a helpful guide to make the application process smooth and successful.
- Budget: Fancy numbers can be expensive, especially if they are popular. Set a budget before applying to avoid surprises.
- Availability: Some numbers may already be reserved or in high demand. Check availability on the Parivahan website or at a local RTO to confirm.
- Auction Process: Be prepared for competitive bidding if you're applying for a high-demand number. Auctions can get competitive, so have a strategy in place.
- Required Documents: Ensure you have valid identity and vehicle registration documents ready, as these are necessary for the application process.
- HSRP Plates Requirement: All vehicles with fancy number plates must have High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP), which enhance vehicle traceability and security.
- Vehicle Presentation: If the vehicle is not produced within fifteen days from the date of reserving the number, the reservation will be cancelled, and the number will be re-notified.
Fees and Charges
The cost of obtaining a fancy number plate in Telangana also depends on the category of the number you choose. Here’s a table outlining the typical categories of fancy numbers and their associated costs:
Category | Examples | Base Price for 2-wheeler; 4-wheeler |
| Super Elite Numbers | 0001 | ₹50,000 |
| Single Digit Numbers | 0002, 0003, 0004, 0005, 0006, 0007, 0008, 0009 | ₹30,000 |
| Other Popular Numbers | 0786, 1111, 7777, 9999, Numbers between 0010 to 0099 | ₹20,000 |
| Semi-Fancy Numbers | 0100, 0222, 0333, 0444, 0555, 0666, 0777, 0888, 0999, etc. | ₹10,000 |
How to Check the Availability of Fancy Number Plates
To check the availability of a fancy number plate in Telangana, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Go to the Transport Department Website
- Visit the official website of the Telangana Transport Department or the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) portal.
Step 2: Click on ‘Choice Number’
- Look for the ‘Choice Number’ or similar option on the website to explore the fancy number options.
Step 3: Select Your State and RTO
- Select Telangana as your state, then choose your specific Regional Transport Office (RTO) from the list provided.
Step 4: Check Available Numbers
- Once you’ve selected your state and RTO, you can view a list of available fancy numbers.
Step 5: Register and Bid
- If your preferred number is available, register on the website and follow the on-screen instructions to participate in the bidding process.
Challenges and Considerations
Obtaining a fancy number plate in Telangana can be a thrilling experience but comes with several challenges and important considerations. Here’s a detailed breakdown of critical aspects you should be aware of:
Competitive Bidding Process
- Rising Costs: Similar to other states, the competition for fancy number plates in Telangana is intense, especially for popular or auspicious numbers. This high demand often drives prices up, with bids sometimes reaching lakhs of rupees.
- Transparency Concerns: There have been concerns regarding the transparency of the bidding process. Some bidders have questioned possible favouritism or manipulation in the auction system, making it seem unfair to participants.
Legal Compliance
- Improper Use of Plates: Many vehicle owners in Telangana attempt to customise their fancy number plates to make them more visually appealing or unique. However, any such alterations can lead to legal issues, as the Telangana Transport Department enforces strict regulations on the format and appearance of number plates.
- Fines: Using unapproved fonts, sizes, or symbols can result in penalties, as the department regularly monitors compliance. Ensuring that the plate meets the official specifications is essential to avoid penalties.
Customisation Restrictions
- Standard Format: Customising fancy number plates beyond the standard design is prohibited under the Motor Vehicles Act,1988. The plates must conform to specific guidelines regarding the size, font, and design, which limits how much personalisation is allowed.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Deviating from the prescribed format or trying to enhance the appearance of a number plate can lead to legal penalties. Following the official standards is crucial to avoid any issues with law enforcement.
How to Transfer a Fancy Number Plate
Transferring a fancy number plate from one vehicle to another in Telangana begins with obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Regional Transport Office (RTO). This document is essential for ensuring the transfer is legally valid and must be acquired before further steps can be taken. The fee for transferring a fancy number plate varies depending on the specific number and the RTO, typically ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand rupees, based on the demand and value of the number.
It’s important to note that a fancy number plate can only be transferred within the same state, meaning inter-state transfers are not permitted. Furthermore, the number cannot be transferred to a different owner without proper legal procedures.
Conclusion
Fancy number plates in Telangana offer a unique blend of tradition, status, and personalisation, allowing vehicle owners to make a statement through their choice of registration numbers. The process of acquiring these plates is structured, starting with online registration, followed by participation in an e-auction, and concluding with final payment. However, it is crucial to understand the legal requirements and associated costs when pursuing a fancy number plate. With the growing demand driven by personal and cultural preferences, the Telangana Transport Department’s auctions continue to attract individuals looking to stand out on the roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
