Fancy Parivahan – Open Series Status | Fancy Number
Fancy vehicle registration numbers in India: Context Fancy numbers, also known as VIP or personalized number plates, are unique combination of digits that the vehicle owner can purchase according to his/her own preference (if available) by paying additional charges.
These numbers which are in great demand, with some like 0001- 9999, or 1111 even fetching lakhs of rupees through e-auctioning.
This article explains how to apply for, fancy number your vehicle and the documents needed in India as per available guideling with fees, rules.
Process to Get a Fancy Registration Number
MoRTH’s Vahan portal managed all the process through e-auction system and equal opportunity. Follow these steps:


Timeline
- Registration and bidding: 5 days (3 days for registration, 2 days for bidding).
- Payment and allotment: Within 5 days post-auction.
- Vehicle registration: Within 90 days from allotment.
Services Available on the e-Auction Portal
Vahan portal offers several tools to streamline the fancy number process. These services transparency and accessibility:



Costs Involved
Costs depend on state, vehicle type, and number of popularity. Below fees based on Telangana’s structure:
Category | Examples | Cost |
---|---|---|
Premium Numbers | 1, 9, 999, 9999 | ₹50,000 |
High-Demand Numbers | 99, 333, 555, 777, 8888 | ₹30,000 |
Popular Numbers | 123, 222, 369, 1111 | ₹20,000 |
Other Numbers | – | ₹5,000 (four-wheelers), ₹2,000 (two-wheelers) |
Current Series Numbers | – | ₹1,000 (reservation) |
Registration Fee | – | ₹1,000–₹5,000 (non-refundable, varies by state) |
Auction Bids | e.g., 0001 | Can reach ₹1,00,000+ (e.g., Delhi) |
Note
In Maharashtra states, prices for premium numbers like 0001 or 9999 can reach ₹1,25,000. Check your state and RTO portal for exact fees.
What is a Fancy Vehicle Registration Number?
A fancy registration number is a personalized registration number known as a “fancy” or “prestige” plate: usually one with a memorable, popular, desirable (or notorious) combination of letters and numbers, or possibly even ones with only six digits.
These plates are similar status symbols, and are selected to make numbers (or letters) appear as they wish – either for text or for numerical reasons (numerology)! Fancy numbers are not merely plates issued by the RTO (Regional Transport Office) unlike common plates; but they’re chosen through a competitive bidding held by RTO.
Structure of a Vehicle Registration Number
- State Code: The first two letters indicate the state (e.g., KA for Karnataka, DL for Delhi).
- RTO Code: The next two digits represent the Regional Transport Office (e.g., 01, 02).
- Series: One or two letters indicate the vehicle series or classification.
- Unique Number: The last four digits (0001 to 9999) are unique to the vehicle. Fancy numbers are typically within this range.
- IND: Indicates the vehicle is registered in India.
Why Choose a Fancy Number?
- Status Symbol & Prestige: A fancy or VIP number (like 0001, 1111, 9999, etc.) is often seen as a symbol of luxury and social status. Many people choose these numbers to stand out.
- Easy to Remember: Unique or repeating numbers are easier to recall, which makes them practical for both personal and commercial vehicles.
- Cultural & Numerology Beliefs: In India, certain numbers are considered lucky or auspicious. Many people pick fancy numbers based on astrology or numerology for good fortune.
- Business Branding: Companies often buy fancy numbers for commercial fleets to make their brand look premium and memorable.
Important Regulations
- HSRP Mandatory: All fancy number plates must follow High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) norms with a hologram and 10-digit PIN.
- No Full Customization: Only RTO-approved numbers can be selected. Custom names, symbols, or designs are not allowed.
- Non-Transferable: Fancy numbers can’t be transferred to another vehicle without RTO approval and extra fees.
- Legal Compliance: Plates must use Latin letters and Arabic numerals as per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
- No Refunds:
If the 90-day registration period expires or the vehicle isn’t registered, fees are forfeited. - Online Auction System: Fancy numbers are allotted through online bidding on the official Parivahan portal.
Eligibility and Restrictions
- Eligible Vehicles: Fancy numbers are available for light motor vehicles and two-wheelers. Commercial vehicles are excluded.
- No Specific Criteria: Anyone can apply.
- State-Specific Rules: Some state have specific vehicle types or limit ownership transfers.
- Compliance: Fancy plates must adhere to the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and use High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) with a 10-digit PIN and hologram.