In India, vehicles with VIP or fancy number plates like 0001, 0007, 9999, or 0786 often catch the public eye. These numbers are not just random digits—they represent status, personal belief, and sometimes, sheer luxury. For many car owners, having a VVIP number is a matter of identity and pride.
But how do people get such special numbers? Do they have to pay extra? Is there an auction or booking system? This article explains everything you need to know about securing a VIP number plate in India—from cost to the step-by-step process.
What is a VVIP or Fancy Number Plate?
A VVIP or fancy number plate refers to special registration numbers that are easy to remember or hold personal or symbolic value. Common examples include:
- 0001 (usually the most expensive and most in-demand)
- 0786 (considered lucky by many)
- 9999, 1111, 1000, 1234
- Dates of birth (like 1703 or 2908)
These numbers are not assigned in the regular registration sequence. Instead, they are reserved by the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) and released through auctions or premium bookings.
Why People Pay for Fancy Number Plates
People choose fancy numbers for various reasons:
- Status symbol: Numbers like 0001 or 0007 are linked to power or class.
- Luck & superstition: Many prefer numbers believed to bring good luck.
- Personal touch: Some choose numbers that reflect birthdays, anniversaries, or names.
- Branding: Celebrities, business tycoons, and politicians use unique plates as identity markers.
How Much Does a VIP Number Plate Cost in India?
The price of a fancy number plate depends on the number’s popularity and the state in which it is being registered. Here’s a general idea:
➤ Standard VVIP Numbers (like 0001, 0009, 0786, 9999)
- These are auctioned, and prices can go from ₹50,000 to over ₹25 lakh.
- For example, the number 0001 for luxury cars like Mercedes or BMW often gets bids above ₹10 lakh.
➤ Other Premium Numbers (like 1111, 2222, 1001, 1234)
- Prices typically start at ₹50,000 and go up to ₹2–3 lakh depending on demand.
➤ Semi-Fancy Numbers (like 1122, 2020, 7070)
- These can be purchased for ₹15,000 to ₹50,000.
Each state has different fee slabs for these numbers. For example:
| State | Base Price for 0001 | Notes |
| Delhi | ₹5,00,000 | Auction only |
| Maharashtra | ₹4,00,000 | Can go higher in bidding |
| Punjab | ₹3,00,000 | Popular for 0786 |
| Gujarat | ₹1,50,000 | Depends on RTO region |
| UP | ₹2,00,000 | High demand in metro cities |
How to Apply for a Fancy Number Plate: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Visit the State RTO’s Fancy Number Portal
Most Indian states now have an online portal for fancy number registration. Examples include:
- Delhi: https://vahan.delhi.gov.in/fancy
- Maharashtra: https://transport.maharashtra.gov.in
- Uttar Pradesh: https://fancyuptransport.com
Log in with your mobile number or email. Some RTOs require Aadhaar-based login.
Step 2: Choose the Number
- Browse available numbers.
- Filter by categories like golden numbers (0001, 0007), premium (9999, 1111), and regular fancy (7272, 1212).
- Select your desired number and reserve it temporarily.
Step 3: Pay the Reservation or Registration Fee
- You will have to pay the base price for reserving the number.
- This amount is non-refundable.
Step 4: Participate in Auction (if required)
- If the number is marked for auction, you must participate in the bidding process.
- Bidding is usually open for 2–7 days.
- You can increase your bid in real time until the auction closes.
Step 5: Final Payment and Allotment
- If you win the bid or your reservation is successful, make the final payment.
- An allotment letter or confirmation slip will be given to you.
Step 6: Register the Number with Your Vehicle
- Visit your RTO with the allotment slip, vehicle invoice, identity proof, and address proof.
- The RTO will assign the fancy number to your car and issue the RC (Registration Certificate).
Important Rules and Guidelines to Know
- Validity of Reservation:
Once allotted, you must register the vehicle within 30 days with that number. If not, the number will be released back into the pool. - Transfer of Fancy Number:
A fancy number can be transferred to another car owned by the same person, but not easily transferable to others. - One Person, One Fancy Number Rule:
Some RTOs do not allow a single person to reserve multiple premium numbers at once. - No Refunds on Failed Applications:
If your application fails due to a technical error or wrong documents, most RTOs will not refund the reservation fee. - Bidding Transparency:
The auction system is mostly automated and visible in real time to all bidders.
Tips to Successfully Get a VVIP Number
- Log in early: Premium numbers get snapped up fast. Be ready when the booking window opens.
- Keep documents ready: Vehicle invoice, ID proof, and address proof must be correct and updated.
- Have a bidding strategy: For high-demand numbers, expect competition. Decide your maximum bid in advance.
- Check auction timings: Many auctions open at midnight and close after a few days. Missing the last-minute bid update can cost you the number.
- Track number availability: Some portals let you set alerts when a particular number becomes available.
Can You Use Fancy Numbers on Two Vehicles?
No. One fancy number is meant for one vehicle only. If you wish to use it for another car later, you have to apply for transfer through the RTO and pay the applicable fees.
Some people keep the number reserved and buy a new car later. But remember, you must register the vehicle within the time frame mentioned by your state RTO (usually 30 days to 3 months).
Sources: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Vahan Portal, Delhi RTO, Maharashtra Transport Department
