A car is more than just a means of transportation; it’s personal expression. From making stylish modifications to lavishing interiors, car enthusiasts just can’t get enough when it comes to customising their vehicles. One of the most in-demand ways to really make a car stand out is with a VIP or special number plate. These number plates make a car unique and add that VIP feeling to it. Hence, such number plates are popular among luxury car owners and enthusiasts.
Many car owners are attracted to the 0000 number plate because of its rarity and uniqueness. In this guide, we will cover all you need to know about the 0000 number plate, its legality, price, application process, and more!
What Is a 0000 Number Plate?
According to the current RTO rules in India, you cannot buy or register for a 0000 number plate. The main reason behind this restriction is that a “0000” plate is not unique and can be misused in various illegal activities, making it difficult to trace or keep track of a vehicle.
You may see cars with a 0000 number plate on the roads, but these are actually illegal and can even land you a fine. Still, there are plenty of other legal VIP and unique number plate options that you can register and put on your vehicle and make it stand out.
Why Are 0000 Number Plates Illegal?
The Motor Vehicles Act and RTO guidelines in India have laid down that number plates have to be unique and clear in identity. The 0000 number plate violates the above norms for the following reasons:
- Uniqueness: Number plates are meant to identify a vehicle uniquely. “0000” does not fulfil this purpose and can lead to duplication issues.
- Potential for Abuse: Such number plates are prone to illegal uses, as it is very difficult to trace such vehicles.
- Legal Consequences: If you are found driving a car with an illegal or unregistered number plate, you could be heavily fined, and your car could also be seized.
If you really want a VIP number plate for your car, then you can apply for legal number plates by participating in government auctions.
How to Apply for a 0000 Number Plate?
You cannot apply for the 0000 number plate in India, as it’s not allowed. But to get a premium or VIP number plate, you can follow the below steps:
1. Open the Parivahan Website
- Open the official government transport website
- Click on the Vehicle Related Services section.
- Select Fancy Number Allocation.
2. Register and Sign In
- If you are a first-time user, register with your details.
- If you are an already-existing user, then log in with your registered credentials.
3. Choose Your RTO
- Choose your state and the Regional Transport Office (RTO) under which your vehicle is registered.
4. Check the Availability of VIP Numbers
- A list of available fancy numbers will be given.
- If your desired number is available, proceed with booking.
5. Participate in the Bidding Process
- VIP number plates are allotted by way of an auction.
- Place your bid and wait for the results.
6. Complete the Registration Process
- After you win the bid, pay the required amount of fees.
- The next step is to submit all documents, such as proof of vehicle ownership and identity.
- After successful verification, your new VIP number will be issued.
Price of 0000 Number Plate
As the 0000 number plate is banned in India, it doesn’t have an official cost. But other VIP number plates come at different price tags depending on the exclusiveness of the number plate.
| Category | Number Plates | Price (INR) |
| Super Elite | 0001 | Rs.5,00,000 |
| Elite | 0002 to 0009 | Rs.3,00,000 |
| Premium | 0010 to 0099, 0786, 1000, 1111, 7777, 9999 | Rs.2,00,000 |
| Semi-Fancy | 0100, 0101, 0111, 0222, 0888, 0999, 1008, 2000, 2222, etc. | Rs.1,00,000 |
| Regular VIP | Other fancy numbers | Rs.75,000 |
Check 0000 Number Availability
As “0000” is an illegal number plate in India, it won’t be available for registration. However, you can check for other VIP numbers with these steps:
- Go to the Parivahan website and on the page, click on Fancy Number Allocation.
- Log in or sign up as a new user.
- Choose your state and RTO office to view the available numbers.
- Search your desired VIP number in the list.
- Book and bid for your chosen number, if available.
Other Legal Options for Fancy Number Plates in India
If you need a premium number plate, then here are some legal alternatives for you –
1. Bid in Government Auctions
Many Indian states have official auctions of fancy number plates. These are legal and transparent, and you can bid on your choice of number.
2. Go for Legal Fancy Numbers
You can go for other popular legal VIP numbers such as 0001, 0007, 7777, 9999, and many more instead of “0000”.
3. Consult RTO Officials
Always consult your local RTO before applying for a fancy number, to get it confirmed if it is according to existing rules.
Summary
The 0000 number plate is very premium and rare in India. Still, it is against the law, and you cannot buy it for your car. If you find a car with the “0000” plate, then don’t be fascinated as it is illegal and will be seized by the traffic police if they catch it. However, there are thousands of legal VIP numbers available that can add that VIP factor and make your vehicle unique from other vehicles on the road.
FAQ’s
Q. How much does a 0000 number plate cost in India?
The 0000 number plate is illegal in India, so there is no official price tag. However, the starting cost of a legal VIP plate is Rs. 75,000, and for more premium and exclusive plates, it can go up to Rs. 5,00,000.
Q. Is a 0000 number plate legal in India?
No, the 0000 number plate is not permitted as per the RTO rules and can’t be used as per law.
Q. What is the cost of 0001 number?
The 0001 number plate is in the “Super Elite” category and its bidding starts at Rs.5,00,000 in India.
Q. Where do I apply for a fancy number?
You can apply for a VIP number on the Parivahan website under the Fancy Number Allocation section.
Q. What are the penalties for using an illegal number plate?
In India, if you are caught using an illegal, unregistered, or ineligible number plate, then the traffic police can fine you up to Rs. 5000 and even impound your vehicle under the Motor Vehicles Act.
