How To Get Fancy/VIP Number Plate?

Vehicle owners in India generally have two ways to obtain a fancy or VIP number plate. The most common method is through an online e-auction, where interested buyers bid for a specific number on the official government portal. In this system, the highest bidder at the end of the auction period wins the number.

The second method is the First Come First Served (FCFS) system. Under this process, a fancy number can be booked directly if it is available and no auction is scheduled for it. The exact method used depends on the rules followed by each state.

What Are VIP Numbers?

VIP numbers, officially called “fancy numbers” by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), are special vehicle registration numbers that vehicle owners can choose instead of receiving a randomly generated sequence. These numbers are usually selected for numerology, visual appeal, or status value.

Examples include single digit plates like 0001 or 0007, repeating combinations such as 1111, 7777, or 9999, and numbers that resemble words when written in digits like 8055 which visually reads as “BOSS”.

Are They Limited?

Yes, VIP numbers are extremely limited. Every vehicle registration in India follows a fixed format: State Code + RTO Code + Series Letters + 4 Digit Number. For example: HR 26 AB 0001.

Because of this structure, only one specific number such as 0001 or 0786 exists within a series at a particular Regional Transport Office. Once that number is assigned in a running series, it is no longer available. This limited availability is what makes fancy numbers highly desirable and competitive.

How Can I Get Them?

The process for obtaining a VIP number plate is handled online through the government’s e auction system to ensure transparency and prevent middlemen.

Step 1: Register on the Parivahan Portal
Visit the official MoRTH fancy number portal (fancy.parivahan.gov.in) and create a user account using your mobile number and email address.

Step 2: Check Availability
Choose your state and local RTO to view the list of available fancy numbers in the current registration series.

Step 3: Block the Number and Pay the Deposit
Once you select a number, you must pay a non refundable registration fee which is usually around ₹1000 along with a refundable Earnest Money Deposit or base price. Base prices vary widely. Regular fancy numbers may start at ₹5000, while premium numbers like 0001 can start around ₹500000.

Step 4: Participate in the e Auction
If more than one person wants the same number, it goes into an online auction. Typically the registration window remains open for three days and the bidding phase runs for two days. Participants place bids in fixed increments to outbid others.

Step 5: Win and Pay the Balance
If you win the auction, you will receive confirmation through SMS or email. You must pay the remaining amount within about five days. If you lose the auction, your Earnest Money Deposit is refunded.

Step 6: Collect the Allotment Letter
After completing the payment, you receive an allotment letter that remains valid for 90 days. This letter is submitted to your vehicle dealer so the vehicle can be registered with your chosen VIP number.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I put a VIP number on an old, already registered car?

In most cases, no. Fancy numbers are primarily issued for new vehicles during registration. Changing the number of an already registered vehicle is usually not permitted unless specific RTO rules allow it, which is rare.

How much does a VIP number cost?

The cost depends entirely on the auction result. Base prices may start from about ₹5000 and go up to ₹500000 or more for premium numbers. In high demand cities such as Delhi, Gurugram, or Mumbai, numbers like 0001 can sometimes sell for ₹15 lakh to ₹25 lakh or even higher during competitive bidding.

Is the VIP number mine forever?

Yes. The number stays with the vehicle and transfers to the new owner if you sell the car. Some states also allow number retention, which means you can transfer the number to a new vehicle after paying a retention fee.

What happens if I win the auction but do not pay the final amount?

If the remaining payment is not made within the specified time, usually about five days, the booking is cancelled and the deposit may be forfeited. The number then returns to the pool for future auctions.

Do VIP number plates give any special privileges on the road?

No. VIP numbers do not provide any legal privileges. Traffic cameras and law enforcement treat these vehicles the same as any other vehicle, and normal traffic rules still app

Can I Get Multiple VIP Number Plates?

Yes, a person can obtain multiple VIP or fancy number plates, but there are a few conditions.

You can purchase different fancy numbers for different vehicles that you own. For example, if you have two cars and one bike, you can apply for a separate VIP number for each vehicle. However, you must register and participate in the process separately for every vehicle and submit individual applications on the portal.

Source- Fancy.Parivahan