Pune: The Regional Transport Office (RTO) had introduced an online system for obtaining ‘Choice Numbers’ for vehicle registration on July 22, 2024, aiming to provide a hassle-free experience for applicants. However, while the application process has moved online, the auction procedure is still being conducted at the RTO office, causing inconvenience for citizens.
The move to digitize the ‘Choice Number’ system was intended to bring transparency and efficiency to the process, eliminating the need for frequent visits to the RTO.
Despite this, many applicants continue to face delays as they are required to be physically present for auctions. Between July 22, 2024, and March 2, 2025, a total of 18,759 applicants obtained choice numbers at the Pimpri-Chinchwad RTO, generating a revenue of ₹23.65 crore.
To apply for a choice number, applicants can visit the Parivahan website, navigate to the ‘Fancy Number Booking’ section under ‘Online Services,’ and sign up using their mobile or Aadhaar number. Once registered, they can log in and proceed with the booking.
Currently, after the RTO announces a new series of registration numbers, applicants must visit the office and pay via Demand Draft (DD). If multiple applicants apply for the same number, an in-person auction is conducted, with the number being awarded to the highest bidder.
Addressing concerns over the incomplete digital transition, Pimpri-Chinchwad RTO’s Deputy Regional Transport Officer, Rahul Jadhav, stated, “While the choice number selection process is already online, we are working at the senior administrative level to ensure that the auction process also moves online soon.”
