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What is considered a “nice” number in Cyprus?
In Cyprus, so-called “beautiful” license plates—license plates with easy-to-remember, symmetrical, or repeating combinations of numbers and letters—are particularly popular. Particularly popular are plates with identical numbers, sequences, or combinations that visually appear harmonious and are associated with good luck or status. Such plates are perceived not only as an element of vehicle individualization but also as a symbol of prestige, especially among local residents and businesses.
“Nice” numbers may include repeating numbers, sequences (for example, 111, 123), special combinations of letters or numbers reflecting the owner’s date of birth, surname or personal preferences.
In what cases can you get a “nice” number?
The ability to choose a license plate directly depends on the method of vehicle acquisition. When purchasing a used car on the Cypriot market, the license plate is transferred to the new owner automatically and cannot be replaced. Current regulations provide for the transfer of the license plate “by inheritance,” without the right to choose or change the combination.
The situation is different when purchasing a new car from an authorized dealer or when importing a vehicle from abroad and registering it in Cyprus. In these cases, the owner has the right to choose the license plate, including participating in auctions for “pretty” license plates.
Legislative framework
The procedure for obtaining a “nice” license plate is regulated by the Cyprus Department of Motor Vehicles. All procedures are strictly carried out within the framework of current legislation, and any attempt to circumvent the rules may result in registration denial. The vehicle owner must be a Cypriot citizen or a resident with a valid residence permit, have a registered vehicle, a driver’s license, and valid insurance. “Nice” license plates can be assigned to both new and existing vehicles, subject to the appropriate registration procedure.
License plate auctions
The sale of “pretty” license plates through auctions in Cyprus was introduced back in 2016. The main goal was to regulate demand and officially monetize the popularity of these “lucky” combinations. During the first few years of the auctions, the state treasury received several million euros.
Auctions are open exclusively to owners of new vehicles. Each license plate series is offered for a limited time. The starting bid starts at €50 and may have no upper limit. At the end of the auction, the license plates are distributed among the highest bidders. Any combinations not purchased during the auction are sold for a fixed price of €100. Payment is made officially, and the license plate is legally assigned to the owner.
Where are the auctions held and how to participate?
All auctions are held on the official website of the Cyprus Department of Road Transport. To access the system, you must register on the portal. A local driver’s license is mandatory—without it, registration is impossible even to view available license plates.
The registration process involves filling out an online form with personal information: first name, last name, ID details, driver’s license number, and contact information. After submitting the form, the user receives an email with a link to confirm their account. Once activated, access to auctions and additional portal services is granted.
Room options
There are different categories of “beautiful” license plates. Classic license plates include sequential digits, symmetrical combinations, or repeating numbers. Personalized license plates, where the numbers or letters have personal meaning to the owner, are also popular. Some combinations are designed for corporate use: companies often choose license plates with easily recognizable sequences for their company vehicles.
The most sought-after numbers are those that match at least two digits or letters. The more repetitions, the higher the value of the combination. Popular endings include 001, 777, and 999. These numbers often fetch high prices at auction.
License plates in Cyprus use a strictly limited set of Latin letters: A, B, E, H, K, M, N, P, T, X, Y, Z. This is due to the visual similarity with the Greek alphabet. The use of the letters Ω, Ξ, and other specific Greek characters is prohibited.
The Cypriot registration system excludes certain number combinations for cultural and religious reasons. The number 666 was officially banned in 1998 after numerous complaints. Similar restrictions were introduced in 2002 for the numbers 13 and 69, which are also considered unlucky.
The idea of personalised number plates with names or words was considered in 2017, but after public and parliamentary debate, the initiative was rejected, and personalised text plates are not officially permitted in Cyprus.
How to choose a number?
Choosing a “smart” license plate requires attention to detail. It’s recommended to think through combinations in advance that are easy to remember and comply with registration requirements. It’s important to consider the symbolism of numbers and letters, avoiding controversial or unacceptable combinations. In some cases, corporate vehicles are chosen to reflect the company logo, abbreviation, or year of foundation. Private owners often choose symmetrical numbers, birthdays, or lucky numbers.
Use and transfer of the number
Once a license plate is acquired, it is officially assigned to its owner. It is important to comply with traffic regulations and keep your insurance and vehicle registration documents up to date. If the vehicle is sold, the license plate can be transferred to a new vehicle or sold to another person through official procedures. Unauthorized transfer or use of the license plate without registration is prohibited.
Advantages and disadvantages
A “nice” license plate enhances a car’s prestige and makes it more visible on the road. For companies, it’s a marketing and image tool. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the high cost and difficulty of obtaining them can be limiting factors. Registration and payment rules must also be followed for the license plate to be legally valid. For collectors or investors, “nice” license plates can have long-term value, as rare combinations only increase in value over time.
“Beautiful” license plates in Cyprus combine status, symbolism, and individuality. Obtaining them is strictly limited by regulations and is only available with the purchase of a new car or its initial registration. The primary method of acquisition is through government auctions, which require registration and a local driver’s license. Despite intense competition and the cost of rare combinations, interest in these “beautiful” license plates remains consistently high on the island.
A “beautiful” number is not just a design element for a car, but also a way to stand out on the road and highlight your personality or corporate brand.
