A 0001 plate is among the most sought-after numbers in India, and many owners ask what it costs and how to get one. The 0001 number plate price is not a single fixed amount, because each state sets its own fees and auction rules. This article explains what drives the cost, how to apply through the Parivahan portal, and which documents and rules apply. It also compares fancy plates with the bh number plate, a separate series meant for people who move between states for work.

What Counts as a VIP or Fancy Number

State transport departments treat certain numbers as choice numbers. Examples include 0001, 0007, 0786, 9999, 1111, and repeating or sequential patterns. The first number in a series, 0001, draws the most demand, since owners see it as a sign of status. Most states keep these numbers on a reserved list and release them for a higher fee or through an auction, instead of giving them out in the normal order.

What Decides the Price

The final amount depends on a few clear factors.

In states with fixed slabs, the highest category can cost from tens of thousands of rupees to a few lakh. In auction states, the department sets a base price, and bidders then push the final amount much higher. A 0001 plate in a large city can sell for several lakh rupees. Schedules change often, so always check the current 0001 number plate price on your state transport department’s website before you apply.

How to Apply Through Parivahan

The steps differ slightly by state, but the general process looks like this:

• Step 1: Open the Parivahan Sewa portal and go to the vehicle related services section. Select your state.
• Step 2: Find the option for fancy or choice numbers. The name varies, and some states redirect you to their own portal.
• Step 3: Search for the number you want and check whether it is available and which fee category it falls under.
• Step 4: For a fixed-fee number, pay the amount online. For an auction number, register, pay the participation fee if needed, and place your bid within the bidding window.
• Step 5: After the result, pay the remaining amount if you win, and download the receipt.
• Step 6: Register your vehicle at the RTO with the reserved number before the validity period ends.

Some states let you reserve a number before you buy the vehicle, while others require the vehicle details first. An unused reservation can lapse, and refund rules vary, so read the terms before you pay.

Documents required for VIP/fancy number plate registration

Keep these ready:

• Identity proof, such as Aadhaar or passport
• Address proof
• Vehicle invoice or sale certificate
• Reservation or auction receipt
• Passport-size photographs
• Valid insurance policy for the vehicle

The state may ask for additional forms, so confirm the list on the portal.

Rules to Follow After Allotment

Getting the number is only the first step. You must also follow the plate rules.

• Fit a High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) with the correct font, size, and color.
• Do not alter digits, add stickers, or stylize the characters to change how the number reads. Authorities issue fines for such plates.
• Check whether the number can move to another vehicle or owner. Some states allow retention for a fee and a fixed period, and others do not.
• Update the insurance policy so that it shows the exact registration number.

These steps help you avoid penalties and keep your records consistent across the RTO, insurer, and traffic systems.

How the Bharat Series Differs

The Bharat series was introduced for people who relocate often. A bh number plate follows a different format, written as year, BH, four digits, and two letters. The system assigns the number, and owners generally cannot choose it, so it does not replace a fancy plate.

Road tax for this series is 8 percent of the vehicle cost for cars below Rs. 10 lakh, 10 percent for Rs. 10 lakh to Rs. 20 lakh, and 12 percent above Rs. 20 lakh. Diesel vehicles pay 2 percentage points more, and electric vehicles pay 2 points less.

Tips Before You Apply

• Set a clear budget, since auction prices can rise fast.
• Check the validity period of the reservation and plan your registration date.
• Read refund and forfeiture rules before you bid.
• Keep digital copies of every receipt.
• Use only official state or Parivahan links, and avoid agents who promise guaranteed numbers.

Conclusion 

A 0001 plate costs different amounts in different states, so the only reliable figure comes from your own transport department. Apply through the official portal, keep your documents ready, and follow the plate rules after allotment. If you travel across states for work, compare the Bharat series with a fancy number before you decide, since the two serve different needs