Owning a fancy vehicle number plate — such as 9999, 8888, 7777, or other repeating/unique combinations — has become a status symbol for many vehicle owners in India. Such numbers are not just easy to remember but are often considered lucky or prestigious. If you’ve ever wondered “How can I buy a custom number plate?”, here’s your complete guide.
📍 What Is a Fancy Number Plate?
A fancy number plate (also called a VIP or fancy registration number) refers to a vehicle registration number with a special numeric pattern — for example:
- 1111, 2222, 3333
- 5555, 7777, 8888, 9999
- 1234, 2468, 5678
- Other easy‑to‑remember combinations
These plates are highly sought after because they are unique, memorable, and often considered lucky by some buyers.
📊 How Are Fancy Number Plates Allotted?
Fancy numbers are not assigned automatically like regular plates. Instead, most State Transport Departments (RTO/VAHAN authorities) conduct auctions or bidding processes where buyers can bid for their desired number.
🪙 Why Auctions?
Auctions help the government allocate limited premium numbers fairly and generate revenue at the same time.
Popular fancy numbers usually draw high bids, sometimes going into lakhs or even crores of rupees depending on demand.
🛠️ Step‑by‑Step: How to Buy a Fancy Number Plate
Here’s how you can buy your favorite number like 9999:
1. Visit the VAHAN Website
The VAHAN portal (https://vahan.nic.in) is the official system used by most indian states for vehicle registration services.
2. Select Your State
Choose the state where you want the vehicle to be registered, as each state conducts its own auction list.
3. Find Fancy Number Auction Section
Look for the “Special Number / Slot Auction” or “Fancy Number” section on the VAHAN portal.
4. Check Available Numbers
You'll see a list of available fancy numbers currently open for bidding (e.g., 9999, 7777).
5. Register for the Auction
To participate, you’ll need to:
‑ Enter your vehicle details (or owner details)
‑ Submit KYC and identity proof
‑ Pay a security deposit or entry fee
This registration lets you place a bid.
6. Place Your Bid
You can place a competitive bid for the number you want. Be aware:
‑ Higher demand = higher price
‑ Prices can soar especially for striking patterns like 9999
7. Wait for Results
After the auction ends, the highest bidder usually wins the number, provided all payment and documentation are completed.
8. Pay Final Amount & Fees
If you win:
‑ Pay the full bid amount
‑ Pay vehicle registration fees and administrative charges as per RTO rules
Once done, the fancy number will be officially allotted to your vehicle.
🧾 Documents Usually Required
While registration requirements may vary slightly by state, common documents include:
- Proof of identity (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport)
- Proof of address
- Vehicle ownership documents
- Security deposit/ earnest money
- Other RTO/VAHAN requirements based on your region
💸 How Much Do Fancy Numbers Cost?
The cost of fancy number plates varies widely based on:
- Pattern desirability (e.g., 9999 is more expensive than 1234)
- State policies and auction demand
- Number of bidders
Examples of price ranges often seen in auctions:
Number Pattern
Typical Price Range (Approx)
Simple fancy (e.g., 1234)
₹10,000 – ₹50,000+
Repeating four digits (e.g., 5555)
₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000+
Highly desired number (e.g., 9999)
₹1,00,000 – ₹10,00,000+ (or more)
Note: High‑demand numbers may sell for crores in some cases — especially prestigious combinations or special registrations in premium states.
📍 State‑Wise Differences
Each state has its own rules for fancy number auctions:
🟦 Delhi
Delhi’s RTO conducts auctions with a transparent online bidding platform. Prices here can be very high due to demand.
🟧 Maharashtra
Mumbai and pune often witness competitive bidding for repeating or attractive numbers.
🟪 Tamil Nadu
TN uses the VAHAN portal for auctions, and fancy numbers are often sold through scheduled online events.
🟩 Karnataka
Karnataka conducts regular slots of auction lots with many unique patterns.
⚠️ Since rules can change, always check the official transport department website of your state for the most up‑to‑date auction schedule and process.
🔁 Can You Resell Fancy Numbers?
Yes, once a fancy number is allotted, the owner can sell it legally to another buyer. However:
- The transfer must be registered at the RTO
- It usually requires a transfer fee
- Paperwork and tax/charges must be complied with
This means rich, rare, or popular plates can be a valuable asset.
💡 Tips Before Bidding
✔ Set a Budget: Don’t overspend just to win a number you don’t need
✔ Check Auction Rules: Every state may have different bidding windows and deadlines
✔ Watch Demand: Popular numbers often attract many bidders, raising prices
✔ Consider Alternatives: Slight variations may be cheaper and still personal
🧠 Are Fancy Numbers Worth It?
Buying a fancy number like 9999 may be worth it if:
‑ You want a unique, memorable registration
‑ You value status or personalization
‑ You plan to keep the vehicle long‑term
But if practicality and savings matter more, regular numbers work just as well.
📌 Summary
- Fancy numbers like 9999 are allocated through state‑level auctions on portals like VAHAN.
- Register → Bid → Win → Pay fees is the general process.
- Prices vary from ₹10,000 to several lakhs or more depending on demand.
- You can resell the fancy number later through a formal transfer.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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