Patna: Patna has emerged as the epicentre of Bihar’s growing fascination with choice number plates, according to figures released by the state’s Transport Department. In the financial year spanning April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025, a total of 14,721 vehicle owners across the state opted for customised number plates, generating a revenue of Rs 23.91 crore for the government. Of this, Patna district accounted for Rs 9.47 crore, with 5,709 owners securing their preferred registration numbers.
The demand for such premium plates remains starkly uneven across the state. While Muzaffarpur followed Patna with Rs 1.88 crore in revenue, and Gaya and Purnia generated Rs 1.35 crore and Rs 1.15 crore respectively, smaller districts such as Sheohar and Arwal saw only nominal interest. In Arwal, a mere 12 people availed of the service, contributing around Rs 2 lakh.
Transport Minister Sheela Kumari credited the rising popularity of the service to its digital overhaul. “We are ensuring convenience, safety, and personalised choices for the public. Citizens can now reserve fancy numbers via the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways portal,” she said. The online system has received widespread appreciation, with many users citing ease of access and transparency.
According to the department, demand for specific combinations — particularly in the A category, which includes numbers like 0001, 0003, and 0007 — remains high. Non-transport vehicle owners pay up to Rs 1 lakh for such plates, while transport vehicle owners are charged Rs 35,000. In cases where multiple individuals vie for the same number, the plates are awarded through an e-auction, with the highest bidder winning.
For current number series, however, fancy plates are granted on a ‘first come, first serve’ basis after the requisite payment is made online. The portal for applications is available at vahan.parivahan.gov.in/fancy.
Many residents choose numbers based on personal preferences or numerological beliefs, said the minister, adding that the initiative has not only satisfied public demand but also proven to be a reliable revenue stream for the state.
