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0000 Number Plate: Is It Legal to Use This in India?

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Is 0000 Number Plate Valid in India? Rules, Fines, and Alternatives

When you buy a vehicle in India, it becomes mandatory to get a number plate. The number plate is only given when you register your vehicle at the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO). The RTO assigns a unique number plate.

As a car owner, you may want a fancy number plate for your car. Isn’t it? Wouldn’t it be fascinating if you could have a VIP number plate of your preference? However, there are specific RTO number rules in India that you will have to follow. One of the most controversial rules is around 0000. Let’s find out if it is valid in India.

What is a 0000 Plate?

The 0000 number plate is considered to be a prestigious and rare number plate. This distinct number plate creates a different identity for the car. Usually, most people who get this number plate think that these number plates are proof of status, affluence, power and more.

Several film stars, business owners and others apply for these unique number plates. However, this number plate is not valid in India. If you are using the 0000 plate, it will be considered illegal, and you’ll have to pay additional fees. Instead of this, you should choose any other number plate.

VIP Number Plate Categories in India

There are other fancy number plates that you can apply for in India, such as the following:

Category	Plate Range	Approx. Cost
Category 1	0001	INR 5 lakhs
Category 2	0002 - 0009	INR 3 lakhs
Category 3	0010 - 0099, 1111, 1000, 0786, 7777, 9999	INR 2 lakhs
Category 4	0100, 0101, 0111, 0888	INR 1 lakh
Category 5	Other VIP numbers	From INR 75,000

Each of these number plates is different, and you will have to consider the factors to apply for it. The car owner’s details can be tracked with the number plate. Therefore, you must check the availability of these number plates in your city before you apply for them. For that reason, you’ll have to consult your RTO. Make sure that all your documents are arranged for the auction process, irrespective of the category you’re applying for.

RTO Rules: Why 0000 Plate Is Illegal

The RTO number rules in India specify that 0000 is an illegal number plate. The Motor Vehicles Act and RTO guidelines have laid down special rules regarding the number plates being unique and clear in identity. While 0000 is unique, it violates the norms in several ways:

• Legal consequences: Driving a vehicle with a 0000 number plate is considered illegal. The authorities may treat it as an unregistered vehicle and impose heavy fines.

• Illegal use: Since 0000 is difficult to trace, it poses security risks. Your car insurance will also not cover such unlawful usage.

• Uniqueness: Number plates must be unique to each vehicle. A 0000 number defeats that purpose and may be duplicated or misused.

How Long Are Fancy Number Plates Valid?

Fancy number plate validity lasts as long as your car’s registration is active. You’ll receive an allotment letter after a successful bid.

The registration timeline is generally 90 days. If you don’t register your car within this time, the number will be made available to other applicants.

Steps to Check VIP Number Plate Availability

• Step 1: Visit the official mParivahan website and click on “Fancy Number Allocation.”
• Step 2: Register as a new user or log in if already registered.
• Step 3: Choose your state and nearest RTO.
• Step 4: Check the list of available VIP numbers.
• Step 5: Place your bid for the available number.

Tips Before Applying for VIP Number Plate

• Always buy from authorised sources.
• Plan your auction strategy in advance.
• Bid based on your budget, not just appearance.
• Avoid unreadable or overly stylised plates to stay legal.
• Keep documentation ready to avoid delays or rejections.

Penalty for Using 0000 Number Plate

Using an illegal 0000 number plate may lead to fines starting at INR 5,000. Your car insurance will not cover such violations. Continuous violation can lead to legal actions and your vehicle being impounded.

FAQs

1. Is a 0000 number plate valid in India?
No, it is illegal and not allowed for registration.

2. Is the 0009 number plate VIP?
Yes, it falls under Category 2 and is considered VIP.

3. What is the price of a 7777 number plate?
INR 2 lakhs, depending on location and demand.

4. Which is the most expensive VIP number plate in India?
Category 1 – Number 0001, priced around INR 5 lakhs.

5. What is the fine for using a 0000 number plate?
Minimum INR 5,000 with possible legal consequences.

Conclusion

While fancy number plates offer a status symbol, choosing an illegal plate like 0000 is not worth the legal risk or fine. Always consult your RTO and follow official procedures to get a valid VIP number. From 0001 to 7777, there are several options available within your budget and preference. Stay compliant to avoid hassles.

Related Blogs:

• High Security Registration Plates in Maharashtra

• Number Plate Rules in India: Compliance Guide

• Decoding Car Number Plates: What do the Numbers Mean?

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