Demand for premium number plates surges past 1,100 since 2023

Colombo, April 23 (Daily Mirror) - The number of motorists opting for high-value vehicle number plates has increased significantly, with over 1,100 plates either issued or reserved since 2023, officials told the Parliamentary Committee on Public Finance (COPF).

According to the Department of Motor Traffic, only 11 vehicles obtained special number plates in 2023, but the figure rose to 46 in 2024 and surged to 692 in 2025, reflecting growing demand.

As of April 17, 2026, a further 436 individuals had reserved premium number plates priced at Rs. 1 million, indicating strong interest in the highest-priced category.

DMT officials said the special number plates are priced between Rs. 100,000 and Rs. 1 million, with several applicants already securing plates at the top end of the price range.

In total, 1,185 vehicles have either obtained or reserved special number plates since 2023, highlighting a steady upward trend in demand for premium registrations.