Fancy parivahan, vehicle registration numbers in India, also called VIP or fancy number plates, are unique registration numbers that vehicle owners can reserve based on their preferred number combination, subject to availability. These premium numbers are allotted by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and generally require the payment of an additional fee or participation in an auction, depending on the state. The Government Services Portal describes this service as the Registration Mark of Choice system, also known as the Fancy Number or Choice Number system. The service operates under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and supports online selection and auction of special registration numbers.
Whether you want 0001, 0007, 0786, 1111, 9999, or another memorable combination is popular and high price. Because of strong demand, these premium numbers are usually offered through online auctions and can fetch prices of several lakhs of rupees.
Important: Fees, availability, auction schedules, eligibility, payment rules, and allotment conditions can differ between states, RTOs and number categories. Always check the current details shown for your selected RTO on the official portal before making a payment.
In this guide you can access my services like driving licence and you can apply for a fancy vehicle number in India. The information is include the required documents, fees and latest guidelines.
What Is a Fancy Number?
A Fancy Number is a vehicle registration number that an owner specifically chooses instead of simply accepting the next number issued in the normal registration sequence. These numbers are made available through the Parivahan/Vahan system. Depending on the number and demand, applicants may be able to reserve it directly or obtain it through an e-auction. Applicants compete by placing bids, and the highest eligible bidder is awarded the chosen registration number.
People commonly use terms such as VIP Number, Choice Number, fancy vehicle number, special registration number, and registration mark of choice for these numbers.
Common examples include:
- 0001
- 0007
- 0009
- 0786
How Does the Fancy Number System Work?
The basic process looks like this:
Select State → Select RTO → Search Number → Check Availability → Book or Register for Auction → Pay → Bid if Required → Check Result → Complete Allotment → Register Vehicle
The official system provides separate options for checking available numbers, searching by number, viewing current or upcoming auction numbers, checking series status, viewing bidding updates, checking auction results, and reviewing payment or refund information.
Process to Get a Fancy Registration Number
You can access the e-auction system and participate in the bidding process through the MoRTH Vahan portal. Follow these steps:
Visit the Fancy Parivahan Website
- Go to the official Fancy Parivahan portal.
- Click “Register Now” to create or select your Unique Acknowledgement Number (UAN).
Check Number Availability
- Click “Search By Number” on the Fancy Parivahan portal.
- Select your state and RTO to view the available fancy registration numbers.
- Check the number carefully to confirm that it is open for booking or e-auction.
- Note the registration number you want to apply for before proceeding.
Pay Registration and Reservation Fees
- Select your preferred number and pay the applicable registration or reservation fee.
- The fee varies depending on the number category and state.
- Keep the payment receipt for future reference during the application process.
Book the Fancy Number
- Choose the desired registration number and complete the required payment.
- If more than one applicant chooses the same number, the number may be allocated through an e-auction.
- Check your application status on the portal to confirm whether your number has been reserved or moved to auction.
Participate in the E-Auction
- The registration period generally remains open for three days, followed by a two-day e-auction.
- Use the e-Auction Cycle Status service to track the current auction schedule.
- Applicable fees depend on the category of the selected number. The portal displays the exact amount payable for your application.
- Click “Live Auction” to view current bidding updates and submit your bid during the auction period.
- Monitor your bid regularly and increase it if another applicant places a higher bid.
Receive the Allotment Letter
- After the auction or booking process is completed, pay any remaining amount within the specified deadline.
- The allotment letter is issued after successful payment and is generally valid for 90 days.
- Visit the concerned RTO with the allotment letter and required documents to proceed with vehicle registration.
- Download and keep a copy of the allotment letter for your records.
Complete Vehicle Registration
- Submit the required documents, such as Form 20, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, sales invoice, roadworthiness certificate, and identity proof.
- Complete the remaining registration formalities and pay applicable vehicle registration charges.
- The RTO assigns the approved fancy number to your vehicle and completes the registration process.
- The HSRP (High-Security Registration Plate) is then issued or installed according to applicable rules.
What Is the Fancy Number E-Auction?
An e-auction allows eligible users to compete for certain registration numbers through online bidding.
The Government Services Portal describes the registration-mark-of-choice service as an online system through which users can select special numbers and participate in e-auctions.
The official Fancy Number system also provides:
- e-Auction Cycle Status
- Bidding Updates
- Search By Number
- Current and coming e-auction numbers
- Bidding Updates
- e-Auction Result
Services Available on the e-Auction Portal
The Fancy Parivahan e-Auction Portal provides several online services that make it easier to search, reserve, and bid for preferred vehicle registration numbers.
e-Auction Result:
- The highest valid bidder wins the number.
- Results are updated on the portal after the auction.
- Winners may receive an SMS or email notification.
- Successful bidders must pay the remaining amount on time.
Bidding Updates:
- Get updates about ongoing and upcoming bids.
- Use “Live Auction” to track bid amounts and status.
- Monitor your bid during the auction.
- Check the latest bidding activity in real time.
Search By Number:
- Search for fancy numbers like 0001 or 9999.
- Select your state, RTO, and preferred number.
- Check whether the number is available for booking or auction.
- View the number category and applicable fee.
e-Auction Cycle Status:
- Check whether registration or bidding is currently active.
- View important dates for registration, bidding, and results.
- Track the current auction stage online.
- Check the result announcement date after bidding ends.
Costs Involved
The cost of a fancy registration number depends on the state, vehicle type, number category, and demand. The applicable charges may vary, so applicants should check the latest fee details on the official transport portal.
| 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 | Other preferred numbers | ₹5,000 (four-wheelers), ₹2,000 (two-wheelers) |
| Current Series Numbers | Current series numbers | ₹1,000 (reservation) |
| Registration Fee | — | ₹1,000–₹5,000 |
| Auction Bids | e.g., 0001 | May exceed ₹1,00,000 |
| Reservation Charges | Selected preferred numbers | Varies by state |
| Vehicle Registration Charges | New vehicle registration | Varies by vehicle and state |
| HSRP Charges | High-Security Registration Plate | Varies by state and vehicle type |
Understanding Your Vehicle Registration Number
A vehicle registration number normally contains several parts.
State Code
The initial letters identify the state or union territory. The first two letters show the state (e.g., KA for Karnataka, DL for Delhi)
RTO Code
The following numeric portion identifies the registering authority. The next two digits represent the Regional Transport Office (e.g., 01, 02).
Series
Letters can identify the registration series. One or two letters indicate the vehicle series or classification.
Registration 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.
The exact format and series structure can vary, so use the current registration information associated with your RTO rather than relying on an example from another state.
Why Choose a Fancy Number?
- Status and Prestige: VIP numbers such as 0001, 1111, or 9999 are often associated with luxury and exclusivity.
- Easy to Remember: Repeated or simple number patterns are easier to remember and recognize.
- Personal Significance: Many owners choose numbers linked to birthdays, anniversaries, or other meaningful dates.
- Numerology and Beliefs: Some people select specific numbers based on personal beliefs about luck, astrology, or numerology.
- Business Branding: Companies may use distinctive numbers on commercial vehicles to create a consistent and recognizable identity.
- Unique Appearance: A special number can give a vehicle a more distinctive registration plate.
- Personal Preference: Owners can select a preferred number instead of accepting a randomly assigned registration number.
- Better Recognition: Simple combinations can make it easier to identify a vehicle in parking areas or busy locations.
Important Regulations
- HSRP Mandatory: Fancy registration numbers are issued on High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) as per applicable vehicle registration rules.
- No Full Customization: Registration plates must follow the prescribed format. Custom names, logos, symbols, or decorative designs are not permitted.
- Non-Transferable: A fancy number cannot be transferred to another vehicle without following the applicable RTO rules and approval.
- Legal Compliance: Vehicle number plates must follow the format, font, size, and display requirements prescribed under Indian motor vehicle regulations.
- No Refunds: The amount paid may not be refundable if the allotted number expires or the vehicle is not registered within the permitted period, subject to applicable rules.
- Online Auction System: High-demand fancy numbers may be allotted through the official Parivahan e-auction process.
- Payment Deadline: Successful bidders must pay the required balance within the specified deadline to confirm the allotment.
- RTO Approval: The selected number becomes valid only after the required allotment and vehicle registration formalities are completed.
- Document Requirements: Applicants must provide the required vehicle and identity documents during registration.
- State-Specific Rules: Number categories, fees, auction procedures, and other conditions may differ between states and RTOs.
Eligibility and Restrictions
- Registered Vehicle: The applicant must have a vehicle that is eligible for registration with the concerned RTO.
- Valid Documents: Required vehicle and identity documents must be available.
- Number Availability: The preferred number must be available in the selected RTO.
- Online Registration: Applicants must complete the required registration process on the official portal.
- Auction Requirement: High-demand numbers may require participation in an e-auction.
- State-Based Regulations: The rules for fancy registration numbers may differ from one state to another. Some states may limit on eligible vehicle types or have specific conditions for transferring ownership of fancy numbers.
- Legal Compliance: Fancy number plates must comply with the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. In addition, vehicles must be fitted with a High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) that includes a security hologram and a unique 10-digit PIN for enhanced protection and verification.
Can You Transfer a Fancy Number to Another Vehicle?
Vehicle ownership transfer and registration-number retention are not necessarily the same thing. If you sell a vehicle, the registration number does not automatically become transferable to another vehicle simply because you originally paid for it.
The relevant authority may apply specific conditions for retention or reassignment. For this reason, contact the applicable RTO or check the current state transport rules before completing a vehicle sale if keeping the number matters to you.
Why State and RTO Matter
One of the biggest mistakes people make when researching a VIP number online involves treating India as one single pricing and auction system.
Transport administration involves state and registering authorities, and the official Fancy Number portal asks users to select the relevant state and RTO for services such as auction-cycle status and bidding information. For example, Haryana has published its own procedure for preferential/choice registration marks and directs users to the Parivahan Fancy Number portal.
Uttarakhand’s Transport Department also describes its service as obtaining a registration number of choice either by booking it or by participating in and winning an auction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fancy vehicle number?
A fancy vehicle number is a preferred registration mark selected by the vehicle owner through the applicable government allocation or auction process.
How can I check fancy number availability?
Select your state and RTO on the official Fancy Number service and use the available-number or search-by-number options.
How do I book a fancy number online?
Create or access your public-user account, select your state and RTO, search for an eligible number, and follow the booking or auction process shown by the portal.
Is every fancy number auctioned?
No. The official system provides separate availability and e-auction functions, so the applicable route depends on the number and current rules.
How much does a fancy number cost?
The amount varies according to the state, RTO, number category, reserve price and auction activity. Check the current amount displayed for your selected number.
What is the price of 0001?
There is no single universal India-wide final price for 0001. The applicable reserve amount and final auction price can depend on the relevant state, RTO and auction.
How do I check a fancy number auction result?
Use the official e-auction result facility and select the relevant state, RTO and result information.
How can I check my payment status?
Use the payment-status or payment-history facility associated with the Fancy Number service.
What happens if I lose an auction?
Follow the applicable refund instructions and check the official payment/refund status. You can also look for another available number or future auction cycle.
Can I get a fancy number for a bike?
Preferred registration numbers can apply to vehicle registrations where the relevant state/RTO permits the service. Check the current rules for your vehicle category.
Can I get a fancy number for a car?
Yes, where the relevant registration authority offers the applicable choice-number service. Check availability and requirements for your RTO.
Can I retain my fancy number after selling my vehicle?
Retention depends on applicable rules and circumstances. Do not assume that a preferred number automatically transfers to another vehicle.
Is a fancy number the same as a VIP number?
“VIP number” is a common term used by the public for desirable registration numbers. Official government terminology also uses terms such as registration mark of choice and Fancy/Choice Number.
Does a fancy number allow a custom number plate design?
No. Choosing a preferred registration number does not remove the requirement to follow applicable registration-plate rules.
Conclusion
Getting a preferred registration number can be straightforward when you follow the official process. Start by checking Fancy Number availability for your state and RTO. Then determine whether your selected number follows a booking or e-auction route. Review the current fee, registration period and auction dates before paying. If bidding applies, monitor the auction and check the official result afterward.
Most importantly, don’t treat an old third-party price list as an official fee schedule. The current amount, number availability and auction cycle can change. The official government service identifies the system as the online Registration Mark of Choice service, while the current Fancy Number interface provides dedicated tools for number availability, auctions, bidding, results, payments and refunds.
For the most reliable information, verify the details for your state, RTO and selected registration number immediately before submitting an application or payment.