A Traffic Notice Number (commonly known as a Challan Number or E-Challan ID) is a unique reference number generated by the Traffic Police system when a violation is detected. In the era of digital cameras and smart traffic management, you often receive an SMS saying, “Challan generated for Vehicle XX-00-YY-1111.” The number mentioned in that message is your Traffic Notice Number.
When you ask “what is Traffic Notice Number,” you are looking for the key to check the proof of your violation (photo evidence) and to clear the fine before it gets forwarded to the Lok Adalat or court.
What Does Traffic Notice Number Mean?
It represents a specific offense recorded against your vehicle. It contains details like:
- Time & Date: When the rule was broken.
- Location: Where the camera captured you.
- Offense Code: (e.g., 184 MV Act for dangerous driving).
- Amount: The fine penalty.
It acts as a demand notice. If unpaid within 60 days, it is often converted into a court summons.
Why Traffic Notice Number is Important
- Proof of Violation: You can use this number to view the actual photo captured by the speed camera to verify if it was really your car.
- Vehicle Transactions: You cannot sell your car or renew your fitness certificate if there are pending notices.
- Blacklisting: Unpaid notices lead to the vehicle being blacklisted at the RTO.
Where is Traffic Notice Number Used?
- Parivahan Portal: To check and pay fines.
- State Traffic Apps: Like MahaTrafficApp (Maharashtra) or mParivahan.
- Court: If sent to court, the judge uses this notice number to locate the case file.
How to Find or Check Traffic Notice Number
From SMS:
The Traffic Police sends an SMS to the mobile number linked to the RC. The Challan ID is in the text.
Online Search (Parivahan):
1. Visit the Parivahan E-Challan website.
2. You can search even without the notice number by using your Vehicle Number or License Number.
3. The system will display a list of all pending Challan/Notice IDs.
Example of Traffic Notice Number
Format: State Code + City Code + Year + Unique ID
Example: MH02-2023-12345678
Common Problems or Errors
- Fake Messages: Scammers send fake challan links. Always check if the Notice Number exists on the official Parivahan site before paying.
- Wrongly Issued: Sometimes the camera reads the number plate wrong. You can use the Notice Number to raise a “Grievance” on the portal to get it cancelled.
Important Things to Remember
- Pay within the stipulated time (usually 60 days).
- If you ignore it, the police can seize your license or vehicle.
- Check what is Vehicle Blacklist Status if you have multiple unpaid notices.
- Always keep your Smart Card RC updated with your current mobile number.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check if I have a traffic notice on my car?
Visit the Parivahan E-Challan portal or your state’s traffic police website. Enter your vehicle registration number to see a list of all paid and unpaid notices.
What happens if I don’t pay the traffic notice?
The RTO may blacklist your vehicle, preventing you from selling it or renewing insurance/fitness. Eventually, the case is sent to court, and a warrant may be issued.
Can I challenge a wrong traffic notice?
Yes. If the photo shows a different car or you were not driving, you can file a grievance on the same portal using the Challan ID/Notice Number.
Is the Traffic Notice Number same as the Court Case Number?
No. Initially, it is a police notice. Once sent to court (Virtual Court or Regular Court), it gets a new Case Number. You can pay it on the Virtual Court website.
How do I pay a challan that has gone to court?
If the status says “Sent to Court,” you must visit the Virtual Courts website, select your state, and pay the fine there, or physically visit the court.