In India, there are different types of number plates for vehicles. The most common one is the High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) which is standard across all states in India. It is made of aluminum and features a unique laser-etched code below the IND (international registration code for India) and the Ashoka Chakra hologram. The registration number is hot stamped with IND engraved at a 45-degree angle.
Legal Number Plate Design in India
The legal number plate design in India is issued by the district-level Regional Transport Office (RTO) of respective states. The number plates are placed in the front and back of the vehicle. By law, all plates are required to be in modern Arabic numerals with Latin letters.
What is the size of a Number Plate in India?
The size of a number plate in India is 20 cm x 10 cm for two-wheelers and 40 cm x 20 cm for four-wheelers.
Number Plate Rules in India
Here are some rules for number plates in India:
- No pictures or fancy lettering on the number plate.
- The registration alphabet and number must be in black on a white background for two-wheelers, and light motor vehicles like a car. For commercial vehicles, black alphabet on yellow background.
- The transport vehicle’s rear number plate should be affixed on the right side at the height of 1 metre from the ground.
- Transport vehicles should paint the registration number on the left and right sides of the vehicle.
Documents required for New Number Plate in India
Here are some documents required for new number plate in India:
- A form of identification such as a driving license, passport, national identity card, etc.
- A document proving entitlement to display the registration number such as a vehicle registration certificate (V5C or V5CNI), new keeper supplement (V5C/2 or V5C/2NI), certificate of entitlement or retention document (V778), etc.
How to get a New Number Plate for Vehicle in India?
You can get a new number plate for your vehicle in India by following these steps:
- Register online on the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highway (MoRTH) as a Public User.
- Sign up and log in to your account.
- Select the respective RTO and then select the number from the list. You can also enter the desired digits to search for availability of the specific fancy number plate.
- Bid for the number plate in an upcoming e-auction.
- Get an Allotment Letter.
Number Plate Format in India
- The first part indicates the state or Union territory, this is denoted by 2 letters.
- The second part indicates the district of registration.
- The third part is a unique alphanumeric code.
- The fourth part is the IND logo which denotes the international registration code for India.
Number Plate Design in India
How to get HSRP for my Vehicle in India?
To get a High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) for your vehicle in India, you can visit the local RTO office or the state transport website of your state to get the list of car dealerships that are certified to fix the HSRP and colour-coded stickers.
Moreover, if you belong to Delhi, Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, you can apply for the HSRP through www.bookmyhsrp.com portal.
Cost of HSRP in India
The cost of HSRP in India is not capped by the central government which means the cost could differ in various states. On average, the HSRP costs around Rs 400 for two-wheelers and up to Rs 1,100 for four-wheelers depending on the category. The colour-coded stickers can be fitted for Rs 100 for vehicles with an HSRP.
How to get Fancy Number Plate in India?
To apply for a fancy car number plate in India, you need to register as a public user at the official Ministry of Road Transport and Highway (MoRTH) website. Choose your preferred fancy number plate and deposit a fee for the registration and for booking the VIP number you require. Once you have deposited the fees, bid for the number you want to buy.
FAQs About Number Plate Design
How long does it take to get a new number plate in India?
Generally, it can take 2 to 3 days to get a registration number for your new vehicle. However, if the waiting list is too long, the process may take around a week (7 days).
What is the cost of a new number plate in India?
The cost of a new number plate in India varies depending on the state and the type of vehicle. It can range from INR 200 to INR 500.
Can I use fancy fonts on my vehicle’s number plate in India?
No, car number plates with fancy fonts are considered illegal in India. According to section 51 and section 177 of the Central Motor Vehicles Act in India, the fine for having fancy fonts is Rs. 1,000. The fine for this also varies from region to region.
Can I choose my own registration number in India?
Yes, you can choose your own registration number by paying a certain fee. The Delhi government’s transport department auctions the most sought after ‘fancy numbers’, such as 0001 or 9999, for a hefty minimum reserve price.
