A Record on Wheels: Andhra Pradesh Buyer Spends Rs 2.08 Crore on a Single Number Plate

An automobile enthusiast from Andhra Pradesh has made headlines by paying Rs 2.08 crore for the vehicle registration number DDC 0001, now considered the most expensive car number plate in India. The purchase highlights the growing trend of premium number plates as status symbols rather than just legal identifiers.

Feb 2, 2026 - 20:07
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A Record on Wheels: Andhra Pradesh Buyer Spends Rs 2.08 Crore on a Single Number Plate
A Record on Wheels: Andhra Pradesh Buyer Spends Rs 2.08 Crore on a Single Number Plate

A Number Plate That Turned Into a Statement

In a country where car ownership itself is often a milestone, one man has taken things several steps further. An Andhra Pradesh resident recently spent an eye watering Rs 2.08 crore to secure the registration number DDC 0001. This single plate has now earned the title of India’s costliest car number, drawing attention from automobile lovers and the general public alike.

Unlike ordinary registration numbers that are allotted randomly, VIP or fancy numbers are auctioned by transport departments. Among these, numbers with repeated digits or the sequence 0001 are considered especially prestigious. DDC 0001 ticks all those boxes, making it a rare catch for collectors.

Why Do People Pay So Much for Fancy Numbers

For many buyers, such numbers are not just about luck or superstition. They represent identity, influence, and exclusivity. Much like a luxury watch or a private jet, a rare number plate becomes a visible marker of success.

In recent years, fancy number auctions have seen aggressive bidding, especially from business owners and high net worth individuals. The appeal lies in owning something that no one else can replicate. Once a number like DDC 0001 is allotted, it is permanently linked to that vehicle and owner unless officially transferred.

The Auction That Made History

According to transport officials, the bidding for DDC 0001 saw intense competition before finally closing at Rs 2.08 crore. This amount far surpasses previous records for fancy number plates in India.

The revenue generated from such auctions goes directly to the state exchequer. Officials often point out that premium number auctions have become an effective way to raise funds without imposing additional taxes on the public.

A Growing Trend in Indian Car Culture

This record breaking purchase reflects a broader shift in Indian car culture. Vehicles are no longer seen merely as modes of transport. They are extensions of personal branding. From custom paint jobs to exclusive registration numbers, buyers are increasingly willing to pay extra to stand out.

As more people view fancy numbers as collectibles, future auctions may see even higher bids. For now, DDC 0001 sits firmly at the top, proving that in India, even a number plate can be worth crores.