What is a Fancy Number Plate
A fancy number plate, also known as a VIP number plate, features unique sequences that stand out from regular registration numbers. These numbers, such as ‘0001’ or culturally necessary sequences like ‘0786,’ can cost a significant amount of money, sometimes reaching into the lakhs of Rupees. Acquiring such a plate in Uttar Pradesh involves a structured process overseen by the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
How to Get a Fancy Number Plate
The process of obtaining a fancy number plate in Uttar Pradesh follows a similar procedure as in other states, starting with online registration and leading up to an e-auction. Below is an overview of the steps involved:
Online Registration
The journey begins with registering on the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) website. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the MoRTH website.
- Create a public user account.
- Log in and select the desired fancy number from the available list.
- Pay the registration fee to secure your number for the auction process.
E-Auction Process
Once the registration is complete, the e-auction begins. Bidders compete to secure their preferred number:
- The auction runs for five days: three days for registration and two days for bidding.
- Bids can be placed in increments of ₹10,000 (smaller increments might be available for specific categories).
- The highest bidder wins the number and proceeds with the payment and documentation.
Final Payment and Allotment
After winning the auction, the following steps involve:
- Receiving a confirmation through SMS or email.
- Completing the payment within five days.
- Collecting the allotment letter, which is valid for 90 days.
- Using the letter to finalise the vehicle registration.
Things to Remember While Applying for a Fancy Number Plate
Applying for a fancy number plate in Uttar Pradesh involves meeting specific requirements to ensure a smooth process. From checking availability to adhering to legal regulations, here’s a guide to help you secure your preferred plate efficiently.
- Check Availability: Verify the availability of your desired VIP or fancy number on the Parivahan website or at a nearby Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Uttar Pradesh.
- Claim Refund if Unsuccessful: If you win the bid but do not receive the chosen number plate, you can claim a refund, ensuring a fair process.
- Immediate Payment: After winning the bid, make the payment immediately to confirm your reservation. Delays may lead to forfeiture of the selected number.
- Mandatory HSRP Installation: All vehicles with fancy number plates are required to have High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) installed to comply with national safety standards.
- Compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act: Regardless of having a fancy number plate, all vehicles must adhere to the regulations outlined in the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 to avoid penalties.
Fees and Charges
The cost of acquiring a fancy number plate in Uttar Pradesh varies according to the number’s category. Below is a table illustrating the different categories:
Category | Examples | Base Price for 2-wheeler | Base Price for 4-wheeler |
| Super Elite Numbers | 0001 | ₹20,000 | ₹1 lakh |
| Single Digit Numbers | 0002, 0003, 0004,0005,0006, 0007, 0008,0009 | ₹10,000 | ₹50,000 |
| Other Popular Numbers | 0786, 1111, 7777, 9999, 0010 to 0099 | ₹5,000 | ₹25,000 |
| Semi-Fancy Numbers | 0100, 0222, 0333, 0444, 0555, 0666, 0777, 0888, 0999, etc. | ₹3,000 | ₹15,000 |
How to Check Availability of Fancy Number Plates
Here’s how to check the availability of a fancy number plate in Uttar Pradesh in a step-by-step format:
Step 1: Visit the MoRTH Website
- Go to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) website.
Step 2: Select ‘Choice Number’
- Look for and click on the ‘Choice Number’ option on the website.
Step 3: Choose State and RTO
- Select Uttar Pradesh 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.
Challenges and Considerations
While owning a fancy number plate in Uttar Pradesh can be prestigious, certain challenges come with the process:
Competitive Bidding
- Rising Costs: Popular numbers tend to drive up bidding prices, often reaching lakhs, making it difficult for some to compete.
- Transparency Issues: There have been concerns regarding the transparency of the bidding process, with claims of favouritism or manipulation.
Legal Compliance
- Improper Use: Some vehicle owners modify their fancy number plates to make them more attractive, but the Uttar Pradesh Transport Department strictly prohibits alterations beyond the official format.
- Fines: Any deviation from the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, design and format regulations can result in hefty penalties.
Customisation Restrictions
- Standard Format: Customising fancy number plates beyond the standard format is prohibited. The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 mandates that all plates conform to specific design, size, and font guidelines.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Any deviation from these standards can result in legal penalties, emphasising the importance of adhering to the prescribed format.
How to Transfer Fancy Number Plates
To transfer a fancy number plate in Uttar Pradesh, you must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Regional Transport Office (RTO). The transfer process usually costs between a few hundred and a few thousand rupees, depending on the number and the specific RTO handling the request. Remember, transfers are only allowed within the state of Uttar Pradesh. Transferring a fancy number plate across state borders requires following additional legal guidelines and cannot be done without proper documentation and compliance with inter-state transport laws.
Conclusion
Fancy number plates in Uttar Pradesh represent a blend of personal expression, status, and cultural significance. Obtaining one is structured yet competitive, with clear legal and financial guidelines. As the demand for these plates increases, more individuals will look to make their mark on the road. Whether motivated by status, superstition, or the desire for a unique number, the process provides a way to get a number plate that represents you.
Frequently Asked Questions
