What Are the Tips for Selecting License Plates During Used Car Transfer?

[SanBella]

There are no tricks. The process of selecting license plates for used car transfers is the same as for new car registrations—90% luck and 10% fate. Many people hope to pick a good number when selecting license plates, such as consecutive numbers or triple-digit repeats, but this is nearly impossible. Over a decade ago, it was still possible to randomly get a perfect license plate number. More details are as follows: DMV 50-to-1 Selection: Most car owners selecting plates for new cars basically use the DMV's 50-to-1 random selection system. They have 90 seconds to choose a number and submit it. This method relies purely on luck—you might get a decent number, but it could also be unsatisfactory. Custom Selection: Custom selection allows you to filter based on your preferences. You can input your favorite digits, and the system will generate plates containing those numbers. However, don’t expect numbers like "666," "888," or "123"—they’ve long been taken. Online Selection: Online selection is relatively simpler and offers a higher chance of getting a good number. Simply download the "Traffic Management 12123" app, click "Pre-select License Plate," then choose "New Car Selection" for new vehicles or "Used Car Selection" for used cars.

[OIan]

I have a lot of experience with selecting license plate numbers when buying a used car and transferring ownership. First, you need to prepare all the necessary documents, such as your ID card, vehicle registration certificate, and insurance policy. Don’t miss any of them, or you won’t be able to select a number. When you arrive at the DMV, ask the staff which numbers are available to avoid picking a duplicate or already-in-use plate. I think it’s best to choose a simple and easy-to-remember number, like 123 or 567, which makes it easier to recall during daily driving and saves time. Online pre-selection is also reliable—check the available number segments on the transportation bureau’s website in advance, take a screenshot of your chosen number, and bring it directly to the DMV to process, saving you the hassle of hesitating on-site. Also, remember to go to the DMV early to avoid long queues during peak hours, which can delay things.

[KaydenRose]

When selecting a license plate number for a used car transfer, I place more emphasis on the symbolism of the numbers. Since childhood, my family has passed down the tradition of choosing auspicious numbers. For example, the number 8 represents wealth, and 6 represents smoothness, so combinations like 888 or 666 are often chosen, giving a psychological boost to one's luck. Last time I transferred ownership, I picked 368, which means 'wealth on the road and smooth all the way.' However, numbers like 4 or 7, which are considered less auspicious, should be avoided to prevent unnecessary trouble. At the same time, it's important to check if the number is available to avoid disappointment. Remember to bring all necessary documents, including the car insurance policy and a copy of your ID card. Going to the DMV in the morning when it's less crowded can speed up the process.

[DeSilas]

Just went through the used car transfer process, and the license plate selection part was easiest online. First, log into the traffic app or official website, enter the vehicle details to check available numbers. Pick a favorite like 1314 for a romantic "lifetime" meaning, or easy-to-remember combinations like 998. Screenshot your choice and bring it directly for the license swap. Don’t waste time dilly-dallying in the on-site queue. A pro tip is to check for newly released number batches and prepare 2-3 backup options in case your first choice is taken. Bring cash or a card to pay the selection fee (just tens of RMB). The whole process can be wrapped up in half an hour if you’re prepared.