How to Book a Fancy Number Plate in Tamil Nadu and What are Its Charges?

Tamil Nadu is a land where traditions blend seamlessly with modernity, and even vehicle numbers get a personal touch. Whether it’s a lucky number, a symbol of status, or a way to make your ride stand out, booking a fancy number for your car or bike is a popular trend here. And the best part? The process is easy, efficient, and transparent.

To reserve a fancy number, you simply head over to the official Vahan portal, which has an e-auction process. You can browse available numbers, register, and participate in the auction. 

This article will provide a complete guide to understanding the booking process of a fancy number for your vehicle in Tamil Nadu. 

A fancy number is more than just a way to identify your vehicle—it’s a statement. Whether you’re looking for something that reflects your personality, brings you good fortune, or stands out on the road, a fancy number offers a unique touch. In Tamil Nadu, many vehicle owners, from car enthusiasts to bike lovers, opt for fancy numbers that carry sentimental or symbolic value. 

These numbers can be as simple as repeating digits like "3333" or as exclusive as single digits like "0002," they often come at a premium. You can secure them through an e-auction process, where you bid on your desired number​.

For many, a fancy number isn't just about aesthetics—it's about significance. Some believe specific numbers bring luck, while others want a registration number that turns heads. Whatever your reason, securing a fancy number can be a rewarding experience​.

Getting a fancy number for your vehicle in Tamil Nadu is exciting and straightforward. Whether you want a number that stands out or brings you luck, the state’s RTO offices and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) provide a simple method to secure that special number. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

• Step 1: Visit the official Ministry of Road Transport and Highway (MoRTH) RTO website or your local RTO office to check the availability of your preferred fancy number.
• Step 2: Once you've found the number you want, list potential VIP numbers you'd like to apply for.
• Step 3: Head to the RTO office and apply to your desired number. You may also need to fill out Form 20, which is used for vehicle registration​.
• Step 4: When submitting your registration request, pay any additional charges for the VIP number in addition to the standard registration fees.
• Step 5: After processing your application, the RTO will assign your chosen fancy number to your vehicle.

Checking the availability of a fancy number in Tamil Nadu is simple. You can do it online through the official portal. Here’s how to verify if your desired number is available.

• Step 1: Visit the official Vahan Parivahan website. This is where all vehicle-related services, including fancy number bookings, are handled online. 
• Step 2: Once on the site, look for the “Fancy Number Booking” section under the ‘Online Services’ menu. 

• Step 3: Choose ‘Search by Number’ to look for your desired fancy number. If you have already picked a number, then search for its availability.

Booking a fancy number online in Tamil Nadu is a convenient process. Follow these steps below to book Fancy Number online:

• Step 1: Go to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highway (MoRTH) or Parivahan Sewa websites. This is where you’ll begin the process of booking a fancy number.

• Step 2: From the ‘Online Services’ menu, select the option for ‘Fancy Number Booking’ to proceed with your application.

• Step 3: Log in using your user ID and password. You can create one to access these services if you don't have an account.

To book a fancy number plate offline in Tamil Nadu, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Head to your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO), where you plan to register your vehicle.
• Step 2: Fill out the Fancy Number application form and submit it at the RTO counter.
• Step 3: Ask the RTO officer to check the availability of your desired fancy number. If more than one person has applied for the same number, a bidding process will be conducted to allocate it.
• Step 4: Submit your application with ID proof, vehicle details, and other necessary documents.
• Step 5: Once your number is confirmed, pay the registration fee and any additional charges associated with your fancy number.
• Step 6: The RTO will issue an allotment letter after processing your application. You can then get your number plate made with your chosen fancy number.

This process ensures you secure a unique and personalised vehicle number at your preferred RTO.

Here are a few key things to keep in mind when applying for a fancy number plate in Tamil Nadu:

1. Once you win the bid for your selected registration number, you must make the full payment immediately.
2. You can request a refund if you secure the bid but cannot claim the number.
3. Even with a fancy number plate, you must still follow all regulations outlined in the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988.
4. To check if your preferred number is available, visit the Parivahan website or inquire at your local RTO office.
5. It's mandatory for all vehicles with a fancy number to have a High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP).
6. After winning the auction for a fancy number, pay the required amount on the same day or by 2:30 p.m. at the RTO's cash counter.
7. If more than one applicant requests the same number, it will be assigned through an auction process.
8. The fancy number reservation is valid for 30 days, during which you must register it with your vehicle.
9. These points ensure you're well-prepared when applying for your fancy number plate.

To participate in the e-auction process for a fancy number plate in Tamil Nadu, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Begin by visiting the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways portal to register and obtain your Unique Acknowledgement Number (UAN), which is needed for the bidding process.
• Step 2: Pay the non-refundable registration fee and reserve price for the fancy number you want. Once the payment is completed, you can block your desired number.
• Step 3: Select and block your chosen registration number from the list of available ones on the portal.
• Step 4: The e-auction registration window usually opens for 72 hours. After this period, the bidding cycle closes.
• Step 5: You can increase your bid during the bidding process. The minimum bid increments are ₹10,000 for categories 1-4 and ₹1,000 for category 5.
• Step 6: If you win the bid, you will be notified through SMS and email.
• Step 7: After the auction results are announced, the winning bidder must pay the balance amount within five days of the public declaration.
• Step 8: Once the final payment is made, an allotment letter will be issued, which must be used to register the vehicle within 90 days.

The entire auction process takes about five days, and the most intense bidding usually happens on the fourth and fifth days. After the final bid, the winner will be declared and notified.

This guide ensures vehicle owners are well-informed about the e-auction process for obtaining a fancy number plate in Tamil Nadu.