i've been searching around local car place for amber 3496 bulbs but i have onle found them in clear. i find other bulbs in similar size in amber, so i guess my question is, will another size/number fit my headlights?

 

Yes there are others that will fit, but they may not be as good a replacement, and they may not retain a good connection because of the slight variance in the design.
You may have to do your own DIY to keep the bulb in a position where it will remain functional.

 

what are the part numbers for these bulbs that "fit"

 

1157.

 

1157, 3496, 2057, 1142, 12499 & 12594 are all the same. (basically)

 

aren't 1157 the correct replacement bulb for 96 civics??