Is the 5 Random Selections for New Car Plate Numbers Per Day?
4 Answers
For random plate number selection, the time slot is from 09:00 to 21:00 daily, with 5 attempts allowed per day. Each attempt provides 10 number options, and the selection time for each batch is 90 seconds. Introduction: Each number segment contains 100 plate numbers, and newly released number segments are only available for random selection within the first 7 days. Any remaining numbers from these segments after 7 days will be randomly added to the self-selection pool by the system, allowing vehicle owners to choose between self-selection and random selection. Each vehicle can have a total of 20 self-selected plate numbers and 5 random selections. Notes: If you are not satisfied with the plate numbers obtained through random selection, you can opt for self-selection within the published number segment format. A total of 20 self-selected plate numbers are allowed, so make sure to use these limited opportunities wisely and choose carefully.
When I just picked up my car, I also tried selecting a license plate number on the 12123 app. Actually, those 5 chances for random selection don’t refresh daily—you only get those 5 attempts for the entire service cycle. I spent quite some time researching it: after logging into the app and entering the new car plate selection, the system first asks you to choose between random or custom selection. Clicking into random mode brings up 10 number options each time, and you can click 'refresh' to get a new batch, but the maximum number of refreshes is capped at 5. On the first day, I used 3 attempts without finding a good number, and the next day I realized only 2 chances were left. So don’t assume that the 5 attempts will reset the next day—they won’t! To really save your chances, I suggest temporarily saving any decent numbers you see instead of rushing to refresh. Also, note that the rules for selecting numbers at the DMV office are different, so it’s best to clarify them in advance.
Last month, I specifically researched traffic regulations when helping my brother select a license plate. The five random selection attempts are a one-time quota and do not reset daily. For example, if you try twice today without finalizing, the remaining attempts will still be three when you log in the next day. This rule is stated in the selection instructions on the 12123 app, but many people overlook it. The rational approach is to check the released number segments first before attempting a self-composed plate. Only use random selection if self-composing fails. A friendly reminder: the deadline for new car plate selection is 15 working days, and exceeding it will result in a two-year blacklist. When I reached the fifth batch, the system automatically locked the temporarily saved number, and I ended up choosing the group with the tail number 668—quite lucky indeed.
Last year, I made a silly mistake during license plate selection, thinking that the random attempts refreshed daily. In reality, the 12123 system only provides 5 batches of random selection opportunities for new vehicle registration, valid throughout the service period regardless of days. Simply put, each time you enter the random selection interface and click 'Change Batch,' it consumes one attempt. If you use up three attempts today, you'll only have two left tomorrow. Pay attention to the remaining attempt counter at the top of the screen—my colleague didn't notice and exhausted all chances prematurely by repeatedly clicking. Actually, self-selected numbers have higher success rates, especially when new number segments are recently released. Also, during the temporary license period, it's advisable not to rush; take a few days to consider carefully before making your selection.
