In India, every vehicle must be registered with a number plate. But over time, many vehicle owners start to look beyond the basic number plate, which is where the VIP number plate steps in. A VIP number plate today is not just a legal identifier, it is also a way for people to express personal choice. Some choose numbers they consider lucky, others prefer sequences that are easy to remember. Among the many options of such number plates, the 5050 number plate has become one of the most preferred choices due to its clean look, balanced and easy-to-remember pattern.
But applying for a number plate like 5050 is not the same as getting a regular registration number. It requires participating in a government-run auction, completing a series of official steps, uploading your documents online, and ensuring the number plate complies with all legal standards. This blog explains each part of the process clearly, from checking the number’s availability and bidding procedures to the documents you’ll need, the possible costs, and the legal rules you must follow to complete everything correctly.
What is a VIP Number Plate?
A VIP number plate refers to a set of digits that stands out because it’s easy to remember, or holds personal value, often due to emotional reasons. These special plates aren’t assigned through the regular registration system. Instead, they’re offered through official auctions by Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), where their limited supply and growing popularity tend to drive competitive bidding. Plates like 5050 are especially chosen for their neat and symmetrical look. People often select them to give their vehicle a unique and personalised identity. The level of interest in such numbers can vary depending on the state, how competitive the auction is, and the local popularity of specific digit patterns.
How to Check the Availability of the VIP Number Plate?
To check whether the 5050 number plate is available in your state or RTO:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to the Parivahan Sewa Fancy Number page.
- Select Your State and RTO: Use the dropdown menus to specify your location.
- Enter Desired Number: Input “5050” in the search field.
- Check Status: Click submit. If the 5050 number plate is already taken, it will be marked unavailable. If it’s available, you’ll be directed to the next steps to apply or bid.
This quick step helps ensure you’re not wasting time or effort bidding on an unavailable number.
How to Obtain the VIP Number Plate?
Getting a VIP number plate like 5050 involves the following steps:
- Type in “Ministry of Road Transport and Highways” into your browser.
- Sign up on the Parivahan Fancy Number portal with valid personal and vehicle details to obtain a Unique Acknowledgement Number.
- After logging in, select the 5050 number plate from the list of available number plates.
- If the number is available, a non-refundable registration and reservation fee is charged for participating in the e-auction.
- Select the 8888 number plate to book a spot in the number plate option.
- You have a time limit of 3 days to register in the number plate auction.
- Auction Participation: Enter your bid for the 5050 number plate. Compete with others in the auction.
- The winner is notified by SMS or email once the auction is over.
- If you win the bid, you need to pay the winning bid amount by deducting the reservation fee which you paid at the beginning. (However, if you lose the auction, you will be refunded the reservation money. )
*Note – The registration money won’t be refunded to you*
- Once you pay the amount, you will receive an allotment letter that serves as confirmation that the VIP number is officially yours.
- You will have 90 days to register your vehicle under the 8888 number plate.
The processing time for allotment might vary depending on the following factors:
- Depends on the number you have chosen and won.
- The policies of the state you reside in.
- Depends on the demand the number plate has.
Here’s a brief scenario: If you bid ₹30,000 for the 5050 number and win, you pay that amount plus any applicable vehicle registration fees and taxes.
Eligibility Criteria to Own a VIP Number Plate
Before bidding for a VIP plate like 5050, make sure you meet these conditions:
- Valid Documents: Aadhar card, vehicle registration papers, and proof of address are required.
- Registered Vehicle Owner: You must own a vehicle registered under your name in India.
- No Dues: You should not have any pending RTO fines or legal disputes related to your vehicle.
- Online Registration Compliance: All details should match government records during the online registration and bidding process.
Legal Standards for VIP Number Plates
All VIP number plates, including 5050, must comply with the Central Motor Vehicles Rules. Legal obligations include:
- HSRP Requirement: You must use a High-Security Registration Plate.
- Colour Codes: Private vehicles must use white plates with black letters; commercial vehicles use yellow plates with black letters.
- Font and Size Standards: As per government regulations, standard size and FE-Schrift font must be used.
- No Decorative Additions: Avoid using stylized fonts, special symbols, or unauthorized materials.
Penalties for non-compliance may range between ₹5,000–₹10,000 and can include cancellation of registration.
Price of VIP Number Plate
The price of a VIP number plate such as 5050 depends on multiple variables:
| VIP Number Type | Starting Price | High Demand Examples | Price Influencers |
| Mid-Level Fancy | ₹15,000+ | 5050, 8080, 3003 | Demand in the state, bidding war |
| Premium Fancy | ₹1,00,000+ | 0001, 9999, 0007 | Number prestige, city value |
- Base Price: The 5050 number plate generally starts at ₹15,000 but can go higher based on demand.
- Bidding Factor: If multiple users bid, the price may increase significantly.
- State-Wise Differences: For example, in Maharashtra or Delhi, VIP numbers often receive more bids than in smaller towns.
Conclusion
A 5050 number plate gives your vehicle a unique identity—it stands out, looks clean, and often reflects personal preference or belief. While it may cost more than a standard number and requires you to go through a few more steps, the demand for such special plates continues to grow. Each part of the process, from checking if the number is available to completing the auction and submitting documents, needs attention and care. Being well-informed and sticking to the official process helps avoid unnecessary delays and ensures that everything is completed without issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I reserve a 5050 number plate in advance?
Yes. You can check and book it through the Parivahan Sewa portal if it’s part of an upcoming series.
Q2: Is the registration fee refundable if I don’t win the bid?
No. The registration fee is non-refundable, but the caution deposit is refunded if you don’t win.
Q3: Can I use the same VIP number if I move to a new state?
No. You must re-register the number with the new state RTO, following inter-state transfer rules.
Q4: Are there other costs besides the bid amount?
Yes. Regular registration fees, road tax, and handling charges may apply.
Q5: How long is the VIP number allotment letter valid?
Usually up to 90 days. You must link it to a vehicle registration within that period.
Q6: Can NRIs apply for VIP number plates in India?
Yes. As long as they provide a valid Indian vehicle registration and ID proof, NRIs can apply.
Q7: Can I sell or transfer the 5050 number plate later?
Yes, but it requires RTO approval and proper documentation.