With increasing concerns over road safety and vehicle-related crimes, the Indian government has mandated the use of High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) for all motor vehicles. This directive is aimed at enhancing vehicle identification and preventing fraudulent practices such as vehicle theft and registration number duplication. In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the HSRP number plate—from what it is, why it’s necessary Hsrp number plate , the legal requirements, and how to get one for your vehicle.

What is an HSRP Number Plate?

An HSRP number plate is a standardized, tamper-proof license plate issued by the government-approved vendors for vehicles across India. These plates are made of aluminum and come with a variety of security features that make them significantly more secure than traditional number plates.

Each HSRP plate includes:

• A unique laser-etched code.

• A non-removable, non-reusable snap-lock.

• A hot-stamped chromium-based hologram of Ashoka Chakra.

• IND lettering printed in blue on the left side.

• A third registration plate sticker on the windshield (for four-wheelers).

These features help law enforcement agencies to identify vehicles quickly and deter illegal practices.

Why is the HSRP Number Plate Important?

The move to HSRP number plates is driven by several important considerations:

1. Prevention of Vehicle Theft

Traditional number plates can be easily tampered with or swapped, allowing stolen vehicles to operate under false registration numbers. HSRP number plates, with their tamper-resistant design, make it significantly more difficult for criminals to replace or alter plates without detection.

2. Standardization Across States

Previously, states had different styles and formats for license plates. HSRP plates ensure that there is uniformity across the country, making vehicle identification easier for national databases and enforcement agencies.

3. Improved Road Safety

With better vehicle traceability, traffic violations and hit-and-run cases become easier to investigate. Authorities can use the information encoded in HSRP plates to track down offenders more efficiently.

4. Digital Integration with Vahan Database

HSRP number plates are digitally linked with the Vahan database—India’s central vehicle registration database—making it easier for government authorities to verify vehicle information and ownership records.

Legal Mandate and Deadline

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has made it mandatory for all vehicles sold before April 2019 to install HSRP number plates. For vehicles sold after April 2019, HSRP plates are already provided by the manufacturer and dealership during purchase.

The deadlines for compliance have varied from state to state. Some states have issued fines for non-compliance, while others have provided grace periods. Failure to install an HSRP number plate by the deadline can result in fines ranging from ₹500 to ₹5,000, depending on the local regulations.

How to Get an HSRP Number Plate

The process to apply for an HSRP number plate is relatively straightforward:

1. Online Application

Most states have dedicated portals for HSRP registration. You’ll need to provide:

• Vehicle registration number

• Engine number and chassis number

• Vehicle type (two-wheeler, four-wheeler, etc.)

• Owner details (name, contact info)

• Preferred appointment slot and fitment location

Some commonly used websites include:

• BookMyHSRP.com

• SIAM HSRP Portal

2. Payment

The cost of the HSRP number plate varies depending on the type of vehicle and state. Generally:

• Two-wheelers: ₹300–₹400

• Four-wheelers: ₹500–₹700

This fee often includes both the number plate and the color-coded sticker.

3. Appointment and Fitment

Once you’ve paid, you will be given an appointment slot at a fitment center or authorized dealership. You must take your vehicle to this location, where trained professionals will fix the plate using a non-removable snap-lock system.

4. Receiving the Color-Coded Sticker

In addition to the plate, four-wheeler owners are also provided with a third registration sticker, to be pasted on the inside of the vehicle’s front windshield. This sticker includes information like:

• Registration number

• Chassis and engine numbers

• Date of registration

• Vehicle type and fuel type

Color-Coding Explained

The color-coded sticker on the windshield is used to denote the fuel type of the vehicle:

• Blue: Petrol/CNG vehicles

• Orange: Diesel vehicles

• Green: Electric vehicles

• Grey: Other fuel types (if any)

These stickers help authorities easily identify fuel types, especially in areas with pollution-control norms and traffic restrictions based on vehicle fuel type.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

If you’re caught without an HSRP number plate, you may be fined under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. While enforcement varies by state, typical penalties include:

• ₹500 for first-time offenders

• Up to ₹5,000 for repeat offenses

Moreover, not having an HSRP plate may cause trouble during routine checks, vehicle inspections, or in case of traffic violations.

Common Questions About HSRP Number Plates

1. Is the HSRP plate mandatory for old vehicles?

Yes, all vehicles registered before April 2019 must be retrofitted with HSRP plates.

2. Can I install HSRP plates myself?

No, HSRP plates must be installed by authorized dealers or fitment centers to ensure secure locking and proper verification.

3. How long does it take to get the HSRP plate?

After online registration and payment, it typically takes 3–7 days to receive and install the plates, depending on your location and demand.

4. Is the color-coded sticker mandatory for two-wheelers?

No, the windshield sticker is mandatory only for four-wheeled vehicles.

Final Thoughts

The implementation of HSRP number plates is a progressive step toward ensuring road safety, reducing vehicle-related crimes, and improving traffic law enforcement. While it may seem like a minor change, the benefits of a standardized, tamper-proof vehicle identification system are substantial. If you haven’t yet updated your vehicle with an HSRP plate, now is the time to comply—both to avoid fines and to contribute to a more secure transportation system in India.