
There are two channels available: online application and on-site processing. Below is an introduction to applying for a license plate number: 1. Online Application: Log in to the website, fill out the application form, confirm and obtain the application progress query code. Online application is more suitable for those who frequently use computers and are often online. The online application takes only a little over a minute, after which the materials will be reviewed by a dedicated person. Once approved, the application enters the lottery stage. 2. On-site Application: Go to the processing windows in various districts, queue to get a number, fill out the application form, submit relevant materials, and obtain the application progress query code.

I recently accompanied a friend to select a license plate number, and the process actually involves several steps. There are mainly two ways to choose a license plate: random selection at the DMV machine on-site, or pre-selecting a customized number on the mobile app 'Traffic Management 12123'. If you go to the DMV, the staff will guide you through the process at the selection machine, where the screen will instantly display dozens of license plates for you to choose from. You have a strict 2-minute time limit to pick one, which really tests your quick decision-making. Using the mobile app is much more flexible—you can try combinations based on your birthday, anniversary, or lucky numbers, but be careful to avoid awkward letter pairs like 'SB'. Here's a little-known fact: the license plate pool is updated periodically, and it's said that around 10 AM on weekdays or right after work resumes in the afternoon are better times to find desirable number sequences. Additionally, green-plate vehicles (new energy vehicles) now use an independent number series, with a significantly higher success rate than blue plates.

Last year, when helping my family with the new car license plate lottery, I did some research and found there are quite a few tricks to it. Online plate selection offers two modes: random and self-composed. In random mode, the system provides 5 sets of plates at a time, with a total of 20 chances. You have 90 seconds to lock in one, otherwise, it's randomly assigned if you exceed the time limit. For self-composed mode, you can try up to 50 combinations in advance, similar to filling out college preference forms—put your favorites first, and the system prioritizes matching in order. Offline at the DMV, it's a 50-choose-1 model, where a large screen displays alphanumeric combinations, and you must decide on the spot. I noticed that plates ending with numbers like 6 or 8 are highly contested, so avoiding these and trying combinations like AB·123C might increase your chances. Also, before the lottery, check the locally published number ranges to avoid peak times right after new numbers are released—this can help you snag a good one. Remember to register within 5 working days after selection, or it will automatically become invalid.

As a frequent visitor to the DMV, here are some practical tips for selecting license plates. First, check if your local area supports app-based selection (most cities do) to avoid long queues at the DMV. Online pre-selection offers two methods: custom and random. Custom selection is like filling out preferences—you can list up to 20 desired numbers, and the system assigns them in order. Random mode presents 10 plate options per round, with 5 rounds total. In each round, you can pick one temporary choice and finalize your selection from the 5 later. Key point: If you choose a plate online, you must confirm it in person within 3 days, or you'll be banned from online selection for two years. For offline selection, don’t just focus on '888'—pay attention to letter placement. Combinations like Jing A·B123C are both practical and unique. Currently, new energy license plates have more availability, so if you're in a hurry, going for a green plate is more convenient.


