Patna: The craze for fancy and VIP vehicle number plates is growing rapidly in Bihar. According to Transport Minister Shravan Kumar, the state issued 4,117 fancy number plates between December 1, 2025, and February 13, 2026, generating nearly ₹6 crore in revenue.
The highest demand was recorded in Patna district, where 1,597 fancy number plates were registered, contributing ₹2.46 crore alone to the state treasury.
District-Wise Revenue Collection
Apart from Patna, other major districts also witnessed strong demand:
- Muzaffarpur – 358 plates, ₹52.17 lakh revenue
- Gaya – 321 plates, ₹41.10 lakh revenue
- Purnia – 189 plates, ₹33.53 lakh revenue
- Rohtas – 174 plates, ₹20.90 lakh revenue
The growing interest reflects a trend where vehicle owners are willing to pay premium prices for lucky numbers, birth dates, and personalized combinations.
Read also: Bihar Panchayati Raj Receives ₹803.79 Crore from Centre to Boost Rural Development and Welfare
Reduced Registration Pendency Boosts Applications
The Transport Minister stated that reduced vehicle registration pendency in District Transport Offices (DTOs) over the past two months has increased the number of applicants. Improved transparency in the transport department’s functioning has also made it easier for citizens to obtain fancy numbers.
How Fancy Numbers Are Allotted
Under Rule 64 of the Bihar Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Rules, 1992, fancy number plates are allocated through an e-auction system to ensure transparency.
Number plates are divided into five categories (A, B, C, D, E).
- Premium A-category numbers such as 0001, 0003, 0005, 0007, and 0009 are priced at ₹1 lakh for non-transport (private) vehicles and ₹35,000 for transport vehicles.
- Other popular numbers like 1100, 1212, 2525, and 9999 are also available at higher base prices.
If multiple applicants apply for the same number, an online auction is conducted. Participants must pay a non-refundable registration fee of ₹1,000. The highest bidder (H-1) receives the number and must deposit the full amount within seven days, failing which the opportunity passes to the next highest bidder (H-2).
Once allotted, the number cannot be changed, and the deposited amount is non-refundable.
Online Application Process
Vehicle owners can apply for fancy number plates through the official portal: vahan.parivahan.gov.in/fancy.
With increasing digital access and streamlined processes, Bihar’s fancy number plate segment is emerging as a significant revenue contributor for the state government.
