Everything You Need to Know About HSRP Number Plates
Everything You Need to Know About HSRP Number Plates
Blog Article
With increasing concerns about vehicle theft, road safety, and proper identification, the Indian government has implemented various regulations to improve the transport system. One of the significant steps in this direction is the High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) system. If you own a vehicle in India or are planning to purchase one, understanding what an HSRP number plate is and why it's essential can help you stay compliant with the law and improve your vehicle Hsrp number plate ’s security.
In this article, we’ll cover everything about HSRP number plates — from their purpose and design to the process of getting one and their legal implications.
What is an HSRP Number Plate?
HSRP stands for High Security Registration Plate. It is a standardized vehicle number plate introduced by the Government of India to prevent vehicle-related crimes and ensure uniformity in registration plates across the country.
Unlike traditional number plates, HSRPs come with security features that make them tamper-proof and difficult to duplicate. The system was introduced under Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, and made mandatory for all vehicles sold after April 1, 2019.
Features of HSRP Number Plates
Here are some of the distinguishing features of an HSRP:
Aluminium Plate: Made from a special grade of aluminum, the plate is durable and resistant to weather and tampering.
Reflective Sheet: The plates come with a white or yellow reflective background (depending on the vehicle type) and black embossed letters and numbers, making them highly visible at night.
Unique Laser Code: Each plate has a unique, laser-etched, 10-digit permanent identification number (PIN) that links to the vehicle’s registration data.
Hot Stamped IND Mark: On the left side of the plate, there’s a blue hot-stamped "IND" inscription and a chromium-based hologram of the Ashoka Chakra to confirm authenticity.
Tamper-Proof Snap Lock: HSRPs are affixed to vehicles using a non-removable snap-lock system, making it hard for anyone to tamper or steal the plate.
Why is HSRP Mandatory?
The primary aim of the HSRP system is to standardize vehicle number plates and reduce vehicle-related crimes, especially theft. Prior to HSRPs, vehicle owners used varied styles and fonts for their number plates, often leading to forgery and misuse.
By implementing HSRPs, the government ensures:
Easier identification of vehicles during traffic enforcement.
Better tracking of stolen vehicles.
Prevention of vehicle cloning.
Centralized record of all vehicles.
Due to these benefits, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) made it mandatory for all vehicles sold before April 2019 to also upgrade to HSRPs.
HSRP for Old Vehicles: Is It Mandatory?
Yes. The government has directed all vehicle owners, even those with vehicles registered before 2019, to get HSRPs installed. The deadline varies by state, but many states have started levying fines on non-compliant vehicles.
In many regions, vehicles without HSRPs can face fines up to ₹10,000 or may even be impounded during checks.
To check whether your state has made it mandatory and the deadlines involved, visit your state transport department’s website or the official HSRP portal.
Difference Between HSRP and Regular Number Plates
| Feature | Regular Number Plate | HSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Plastic/Metal | Aluminum |
| Security Features | None | Hologram, laser code, snap lock |
| Tamper Proof | No | Yes |
| Legally Approved | Not standardized | Mandatory under Indian law |
| Cost | Low | Slightly higher due to advanced features |
What is a Color-Coded Fuel Sticker?
Alongside the HSRP, vehicles are also required to have a color-coded fuel sticker. These stickers indicate the type of fuel the vehicle uses:
Light Blue: Petrol and CNG vehicles
Orange: Diesel vehicles
These stickers are pasted on the top left corner of the windshield and come with the vehicle’s registration number and emission details. They aid enforcement agencies in checking emissions and enforcing pollution control measures, especially in cities like Delhi under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
How to Apply for an HSRP Number Plate?
Getting an HSRP installed is a simple process, often available online through authorized portals. Here's how:
Step-by-Step Guide:
Enter Vehicle Details: You’ll need your vehicle registration number, engine number, and chassis number.
Choose Appointment Slot: Select a fitting center and preferred date and time.
Make Payment: The cost varies by vehicle type and location (usually between ₹400 and ₹1200).
Visit the Center: Go to the chosen center on your appointment day and get your HSRP fixed.
Receive Confirmation: After installation, you’ll receive a receipt and confirmation SMS/email.
Documents Required
When applying for an HSRP number plate, keep the following documents ready:
Vehicle registration certificate (RC)
Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
Proof of insurance (if required by portal)
Old number plate (if replacing)
Cost of HSRP Number Plates
The price for HSRP number plates depends on the vehicle type:
Two-Wheelers: ₹400–₹600
Four-Wheelers: ₹800–₹1200
This includes both the number plate and the color-coded fuel sticker.
Note: Prices may vary by state and service center.
What Happens if You Don’t Get an HSRP?
If you're caught driving without an HSRP after the mandated deadline:
Fines: Up to ₹10,000 under the Motor Vehicles Act.
Vehicle Seizure: In some cases, vehicles can be impounded.
Legal Trouble: Repeat offenders may face stricter penalties.
Final Thoughts
With the increasing push for digitization and secure identification in India, the HSRP number plate plays a crucial role in modernizing the transport infrastructure. While the process of upgrading may seem cumbersome initially, it significantly enhances road safety, reduces vehicle thefts, and ensures standardized vehicle tracking.
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