Is Your License Plate Lucky? The Science and Superstition of Numbers

The old adage “Blessings never come in pairs, but misfortunes never come singly” still resonates today, especially when it comes to the topic of “lucky” and “unlucky” license plates. It’s no coincidence that people scrutinize the seemingly random sequence of numbers on everything from trucks and cars to motorcycles. So where is the line between superstition and science in the discussion of auspicious license plates?

The Significance of “Lucky” and “Unlucky” License Plates

From a psychological perspective, the belief in lucky license plates reflects a desire for good fortune and safety. It provides a sense of comfort and confidence while driving.

“Numbers themselves don’t bring luck, but the belief in them can create a positive mindset,” shares Dr. Robert Hoffman, a psychology professor at Harvard University, in his book “The Psychology of Luck.”

However, from a scientific standpoint, license plate numbers are simply a means of vehicle identification and management. Their value lies in classification, statistics, and ensuring traffic order and safety.

Decoding the Mystery of Auspicious License Plates

So how does one determine if a license plate is “lucky” or “unlucky”? Is there a universal formula?

In reality, there’s no absolute definition of a “good” or “bad” license plate. Perceptions vary from person to person, region to region, and even across different time periods.

However, some commonly considered factors include:

• The meaning of individual numbers: For example, the number 8 is often associated with prosperity, while the number 4 is considered unlucky due to its similar pronunciation to the word for “death.”
• The combination of numbers: Many believe that the presence of lucky number pairs like 39 (“minor god of wealth”) or 79 (“major god of wealth”) will bring financial fortune.
• Feng Shui: In addition to the numerical meanings, people also consider the compatibility of the license plate’s elements with the owner’s birth year and zodiac sign.

A Real-Life Story

Mr. Nguyen Van A (35 years old, Hanoi) shares: “When I bought my truck, I was also concerned about the license plate. Ultimately, I chose a truck with a license plate that included numbers compatible with my age. While I know it’s superstition, I feel more at ease when driving.”