With the increasing need for road safety and vehicle identification, the Indian government has mandated the use of HSRP number plates for all vehicles. HSRP, or High-Security Registration Plate, is a standardized license plate issued by the government to ensure uniformity, reduce vehicle-related crimes, and improve the overall traffic management system. In this article Hsrp number plate , we will explore what HSRP number plates are, why they are important, how to get one, and the penalties for non-compliance.
What is an HSRP Number Plate?
An HSRP number plate is a tamper-proof license plate made of aluminum and equipped with several security features to prevent counterfeiting. It has been designed to make it easier for authorities to track and identify vehicles, especially in the case of theft or misuse.
Key Features of an HSRP Number Plate:
Aluminum Plate: Made of 1mm thick aluminum.
Laser-engraved Permanent Identification Number (PIN): A unique 10-digit code on the bottom left of the plate.
Hologram: A chromium-based hologram of the Ashoka Chakra at the top left.
Hot-stamped India text: The word “IND” is hot-stamped in blue on the left-hand side.
Tamper-proof Snap Locks: Once the plate is fixed, it cannot be removed without being destroyed.
Color-coded Sticker: Indicates the type of fuel the vehicle uses and includes important details such as registration number, vehicle class, and Bharat Stage compliance.
Why is HSRP Mandatory?
The Government of India has made HSRP number plates mandatory for all vehicles to standardize vehicle registration and improve road security. Here are a few reasons why the HSRP initiative is significant:
1. Curbing Vehicle Theft
Traditional number plates can easily be removed or replaced by criminals. However, HSRP number plates are fixed with non-reusable snap locks and cannot be tampered with easily. This makes it difficult for stolen vehicles to be passed off as legitimate.
2. Improved Law Enforcement
The laser-etched PIN and uniform design allow traffic authorities to quickly verify vehicle details using surveillance technology, including CCTV cameras and automated number plate recognition (ANPR) systems.
3. Pollution and Emission Control
The color-coded sticker affixed to the HSRP system provides instant identification of the fuel type of the vehicle, helping to monitor and enforce environmental regulations.
4. Compliance with Supreme Court Ruling
In 2012, the Supreme Court of India mandated the implementation of HSRP across all states and union territories. Since then, efforts have been made to ensure complete adoption by vehicle owners.
Who Needs an HSRP Number Plate?
As per the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), all vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, are required to replace their existing number plates with HSRP number plates. Vehicles registered after this date are generally issued HSRPs by default at the time of purchase.
The rule applies to:
Two-wheelers
Three-wheelers
Four-wheelers
Commercial vehicles
Private vehicles
How to Apply for an HSRP Number Plate
Applying for an HSRP number plate is a relatively simple process, and can be done online in most states. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the authorized HSRP vendor’s website for your state. For example, BookMyHSRP is a widely used platform in many Indian states.
Step 2: Enter Vehicle Details
You’ll need to enter details such as:
Vehicle Registration Number
Chassis Number
Engine Number
Vehicle Type (Two-wheeler, Four-wheeler, etc.)
Fuel Type
Step 3: Select Fitting Location
Choose your nearest authorized dealership or RTO where the HSRP number plate will be affixed. Many dealers offer doorstep services for an additional fee.
Step 4: Make the Payment
The cost of an HSRP number plate varies based on the vehicle type and state, typically ranging between ₹400 to ₹1100. Payments can be made online via net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI.
Step 5: Appointment Confirmation
You will receive an appointment confirmation receipt with a date and time for the installation.
Step 6: Visit and Installation
On the appointment day, visit the selected fitting center with your vehicle. The authorized personnel will install the HSRP plate and apply the color-coded fuel sticker.
Cost of HSRP Number Plate
The pricing structure for HSRP number plates generally falls into the following range:
Two-wheelers: ₹400–₹500
Four-wheelers: ₹800–₹1100
Color-coded sticker (if bought separately): ₹100–₹150
The cost includes the plate, the color-coded sticker, and installation charges.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
If you fail to install an HSRP number plate on your vehicle, you may be subject to fines under the Motor Vehicles Act. As per current rules, the penalty for non-compliance can go up to ₹5,000.
In many states, traffic police have started issuing challans for vehicles without HSRP plates or without the correct color-coded sticker.
State-wise Implementation
The rollout of HSRP number plates has varied by state. While some states like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana have enforced strict deadlines, others are still in various stages of implementation.
To avoid fines, vehicle owners are encouraged to apply for HSRPs well before any state-imposed deadline.
FAQs About HSRP Number Plates
Q1: Is it compulsory to get an HSRP for a second-hand vehicle?
Yes, if your second-hand vehicle was registered before April 2019 and doesn’t have an HSRP, you must get one.
Q2: Can I reuse my HSRP number plate if I transfer the vehicle?
No, HSRP plates are specific to a vehicle’s registration and cannot be reused or transferred.
Q3: Can I get an HSRP installed at any garage?
No, only authorized dealers and RTOs are allowed to install HSRP number plates to ensure authenticity and security.
Q4: What if my HSRP plate gets damaged?
In case of damage or loss, you must apply for a replacement HSRP through the authorized portal or dealership.
Final Thoughts
The HSRP number plate is a significant step toward modernizing India's vehicle registration system and enhancing road safety. With its tamper-proof design and centralized tracking system, it not only protects vehicle owners but also assists law enforcement in maintaining better control over traffic and crime.