Last updated: September 2026 – checked against the Vahan fancy number (choice number) service. Fees and auction rules vary by state.
If you want a particular registration number for your new car or bike, such as 0001, 9999 or a number with personal meaning, the first thing to check is the open series status. “Open series” refers to the registration number series that an RTO currently has open for allotment. Only numbers within an open series, or unsold numbers left over from earlier series, can be booked. This guide explains how registration series work, how to check the open series on Parivahan, and how to book a fancy number.
How Registration Number Series Work
A registration number such as MH-12-AB-1234 has four parts: the state code, the RTO code, a letter series (AB here), and a four-digit number from 0001 to 9999. Each RTO issues numbers one series at a time. When one series is used up, the RTO moves to the next, for example from AB to AC. At any moment, only a limited set of series is open at each RTO, which is why you can’t simply choose any number you like: it has to be in a series that’s currently open, or an unsold number from a previous series. Different series are often opened for different vehicle categories, so the series open for cars can differ from the one for two-wheelers.
How To Check the Open Series Status
Menu names vary slightly by state. The key point is to check the open series for the correct RTO, meaning the office whose area covers your address, since you can only book numbers in that RTO’s series. See our RTO list if you’re not sure which office covers you.
How To Book a Fancy Number
Many buyers let the dealer handle this, but you can do it yourself on the portal. Make sure the booking is done before the vehicle’s permanent registration, since a number can’t normally be swapped after registration. Book your HSRP number plates only after the final number is allotted.
Fees and Auctions
Fancy numbers are grouped into categories, with the most sought-after numbers, such as 0001, 0007, 0786 and 9999, carrying the highest base prices. Base prices differ between states and categories and are set by the state transport department. Popular numbers often go to auction, where winning bids can be many times the base price. If you don’t win, most states refund the deposit less any non-refundable fee; check your state’s rules on the portal before booking. Fees are generally not refunded if the vehicle isn’t registered within the time allowed after allotment.
Tips for Getting the Number You Want
Check the open series early, before you take delivery, since series move quickly at busy RTOs. If the number you want isn’t in an open series, check again later: a new series may open soon, or an unsold number from an older series may still be available. Be flexible about the letter series, since the same four digits may be available in more than one. Remember that your number must still be displayed on a standard plate in the standard font; a fancy number is legal, but a fancy plate is not. See our guide to types of number plates.
If You Meant Your Vehicle’s Document Status
If you’re looking to check your vehicle’s registration, insurance, tax or PUC validity rather than number series, that’s a different service. Use Know Your Vehicle Details on Parivahan; see our guides to RC status and registration status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “open series” mean on Parivahan?
It’s the registration number series an RTO currently has open for allotment. Only numbers in open series, or unsold numbers from older series, can be booked.
Can I book a fancy number for a vehicle that’s already registered?
Generally no. Fancy numbers are booked before registration and linked to the vehicle’s application. Changing the number of an already registered vehicle isn’t normally allowed.
Can commercial vehicles get fancy numbers?
Rules vary by state. Fancy number schemes are mainly aimed at private cars and two-wheelers, so check your state’s rules on the portal.
Why can’t I find the number I want?
It may already be allotted, reserved, or in a series that isn’t open yet. Check the open series again later, or try the same digits in a different letter series.
Related guides: Types of Number Plates, High Security Registration Plates, Vehicle Registration Status.