High Security Registration Plate (HSRP)
01
Oct 2024

Overview of High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) for Vehicles

In the past, vehicle owners could use custom number plates with varying fonts, colours, and languages. However, these plates made identifying vehicles and tracking illegal activities easier for RTO officials. To improve the uniformity and traceability of vehicle registration plates, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) amended the Central Motor Vehicle Act of 1988. It introduced High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) in 2005. As of April 1, 2019, HSRP plates and color-coded stickers became mandatory for both old and new vehicles.

As vehicle safety regulations evolve, High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) has become mandatory for all motor vehicles in India. Introduced to enhance vehicle security and standardise the registration process, HSRP aims to curb vehicle-related crimes and ensure a more efficient identification system.

Vehicles sold after April 2019 are provided with HSRP plates by the dealer. The primary purpose of these plates is to prevent illegal activities involving vehicles. The government imposes significant fines for vehicles found without HSRP plates. This article will cover everything you need about HSRP, including its meaning, significance, pricing, and other relevant details.

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What is an HSRP Number Plate?

The Indian government introduced the HSRP (High Security Registration Plate), a tamper-proof vehicle license plate designed with several security features to prevent counterfeiting and misuse. These plates are standardised for all vehicles nationwide, ensuring a uniform registration process. The HSRP number plate is made of aluminium. It contains a unique identification number (UID), a hologram, and a laser-etched registration number, which makes it more secure than conventional number plates.

Key Features of an HSRP Number Plate

All HSRP plates are standardised in size, font, and dimensions across RTO offices. These plates are electronically linked to the vehicle, making duplication or reuse impossible. Key features include:

  • To prevent forgery, a 20 mm by 20 mm blue-coloured chromium-based hologram of the Ashoka Chakra is located on the upper left corner of the plate.
  • A unique 10-digit Permanent Identification Number (PIN) engraved with laser technology on the lower-left corner.
  • The registration number features a state code, district code (RTO), and a unique alphanumeric vehicle identification number printed at a 45-degree angle with “INDIA” written.
  • The “IND” marking below the Ashoka Chakra hologram indicates national identity and standardisation.
  • This improves visibility, especially at night, making the vehicle easily identifiable by authorities.
  • The “IND” marking is on all HSRP plates, signifying that it meets international standards.

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Importance of HSRP for Vehicle Owners

The implementation of HSRP has several advantages:

  • Prevention of theft: The unique ID and tamper-proof design make it harder for criminals to misuse or clone vehicle number plates.
  • Standardisation: Uniform design and features ensure that every vehicle, whether two-wheeler or four-wheeler, has a regulated identification.
  • Enhanced Road Safety: The retro-reflective film makes vehicles visible from a distance, reducing the chances of accidents, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Streamlined Traffic Management: With HSRP plates, traffic authorities can easily scan the UID to access vehicle information, facilitating more efficient law enforcement.

What Are Color-Coded Stickers?

In addition to the HSRP, vehicles must have colour-coded stickers on the windscreen. These stickers indicate the vehicle’s fuel type and Bharat Stage (BS) emission standard. Priced at Rs. 100, these stickers can be purchased separately from the HSRP plate. The information included on the sticker:

  • Vehicle registration number
  • Registering authority
  • Date of first registration
  • Laser-engraved permanent identification number

The colour coding for the stickers is as follows:

Colour

Bharat Stage

Fuel Type

Light Blue

BS III & IV

Petrol and CNG

Orange

BS III & IV

Diesel

Grey

BS III & IV

Other Vehicles

Light Blue with Green Strip

BS VI

Petrol and CNG

Orange with Green Strip

BS VI

Diesel

Grey with Green Strip

BS VI

Other Vehicles

Why is it Mandatory to Have an HSRP Number Plate?

With the rise in vehicle-related crimes and thefts, the Indian government faced challenges tracking and identifying vehicles, especially when number plates were tampered with or replaced. Older plates, made with easy-to-manipulate stickers, made it even more challenging to address these issues. The government introduced High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) to combat this, which help track stolen vehicles using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology-enabled CCTV cameras. Additionally, many vehicle owners used fancy or customised plates that were hard to trace in case of accidents or other incidents.

By mandating HSRP number plates, all vehicle information is digitised and easily accessible by the Indian transport department or local RTO authorities. This reduces the risk of vehicle forgery. Colour-coded stickers further help authorities identify the vehicle’s fuel type and age, aiding traffic police in spotting outdated vehicles that should no longer be on the road.

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Who Needs to Install an HSRP Number Plate?

According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), all vehicles, old and new, must have an HSRP number plate. Vehicles purchased after April 2019 already have HSRP plates. However, owners of vehicles bought before this date must replace their old plates with HSRP-compliant plates to avoid penalties and legal issues.

Benefits of Installing an HSRP Number Plate

Understanding the HSRP meaning and its advantages is essential for vehicle owners to comply with legal regulations in India. Below are the key benefits of installing an HSRP plate:

Standardisation

HSRP plates ensure uniformity across all vehicles in India. The plates are designed with a unique format, ensuring consistency in size, font, and construction, making them easily recognisable by authorities.

Reduces Vehicle-Related Crimes

The secure features of HSRP plates make it difficult for criminals to tamper with or duplicate number plates, reducing the risk of illegal activities such as theft. HSRP plates also assist authorities in detecting and addressing any suspicious or fraudulent activity.

Efficient Vehicle Tracking

Each HSRP plate is embedded with a Laser Identification Recognition System. The plates contain a unique identification code that can be read by ANPR-enabled cameras, improving transparency and enabling authorities to track vehicles involved in crimes quickly.

Digitisation of Vehicle Data

All HSRP number plates are electronically linked to a centralised database. This allows authorities to access important vehicle information such as the chassis number, engine number, and ownership details, simplifying the process of vehicle identification and investigation.

Authorised Installation

Only authorised vehicle dealers and vendors are allowed to issue HSRP number plates. To obtain an HSRP, dealers must provide vehicle details such as the chassis number, registration number, and a valid PUC certificate.

Readable Font and Standardized Design

Before HSRP, many vehicle owners customised their plates with unique fonts, colours, and designs, making them difficult to read. HSRP plates feature a uniform font and design, making it easier for RTO officials to read and identify the vehicle.

By adopting HSRP number plates, vehicle owners contribute to a safer and more secure system. This helps reduce crimes and enhance road safety while keeping vehicle owners compliant with Indian traffic laws.

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List of States Offering Online HSRP Application

Not all states in India provide the online HSRP booking service through the ‘Book My HSRP’ platform. Each state has a designated portal where vehicle owners can apply for their High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) online. Below is a list of states and their corresponding websites for HSRP booking.

State

Website to Visit

Delhi

Book My HSRP

Haryana

Link Utsav

Maharashtra

Maharashtra Transport Department

Karnataka

Karnataka Transport Department

Telangana

Link Auto Tech

Uttar Pradesh

Book My HSRP

For states like Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, the Book My HSRP platform is available for easy online booking, while other states have their respective portals. Ensure you visit your state’s correct website to apply for an HSRP number plate online.

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How to Book My HSRP Number Plate?

Booking an HSRP for your vehicle has become a straightforward process, thanks to online platforms that allow easy registration and payment. Follow these steps for HSRP booking:

  1. Visit the official website for HSRP registration (such as Book My HSRP).
  2. Enter vehicle details, including registration, engine, and chassis numbers.
  3. Choose the type of vehicle (two-wheeler or four-wheeler).
  4. Select your state and RTO (Regional Transport Office) for HSRP installation.
  5. Schedule an appointment for an HSRP fitting.
  6. Complete the payment online and receive a confirmation email or SMS with the appointment details.

Depending on the vehicle type, HSRP registration typically costs between INR 400 and INR 1,000. When you visit the RTO for the installation, you must carry your vehicle’s original documents.

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States Implementing HSRP

HSRP is being rolled out nationwide, with states like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Maharashtra leading the way. Vehicle owners in these states must comply with the HSRP norms to avoid fines or legal actions. Failure to install an HSRP plate can result in hefty penalties, as mandated by state transport authorities.

How do you Check the Status of your HSRP Application?

If you’ve applied for an HSRP number plate via the Book My HSRP portal, you can easily check the status of your application by following these steps:

  1. Visit the official Book My HSRP website.
  2. On the homepage, click on the “Track Your Order” option.
  3. Enter your order number and vehicle registration number, and complete the captcha.
  4. Click “Search,” and your HSRP application status will be displayed.

This process helps you track when your HSRP plate will be ready and schedule an installation accordingly.

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How do you Apply for a Duplicate HSRP Number Plate?

If your HSRP number plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply for a duplicate plate through the Book My HSRP portal. If the online service is unavailable in your state, you must visit the nearest RTO or authorised center.

To apply for a duplicate HSRP number plate, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the Book My HSRP website.
  2. Select the “Replacement Booking” tab.
  3. Enter vehicle details like the registration, chassis, engine, and state.
  4. Complete the captcha and submit the form.
  5. Choose your preferred location and book an appointment.
  6. Review the booking summary, make the payment, and save the receipt for future reference.

How can You Cancel an HSRP Booking and Request a Refund?

If you need to cancel your HSRP booking due to unforeseen circumstances, you can do so through the Book My HSRP portal. Here’s how:

  1. Open the Book My HSRP website.
  2. Click on the “Cancel HSRP” tab on the homepage.
  3. Enter the necessary details, including your vehicle registration number and order number.
  4. Complete the captcha and click “Search.”
  5. Once located, you can cancel your booking, and a refund will be initiated.

This cancellation feature provides flexibility in case you cannot attend your appointment.

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Differences Between HSRP and Regular Number Plates

Old number plates were made from simple metal, with the registration number printed on them. These plates were prone to damage and tampering, making vehicle tracking difficult and leading to a rise in vehicle-related crimes. In 2019, the Indian government introduced High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP), standardising vehicle data and making tracking much easier.

Here are the key differences between HSRP and regular number plates:

Feature

HSRP (High Security Registration Plates)

Regular Number Plates

Material and Security Locks

Made of aluminium with two tamper-proof snap-on locks. It cannot be reused once removed.

Simple metal plates, easily removable and reusable.

Standardised Design and Font

Uniform design and font for all vehicles, ensuring easy readability and transparency.

Customisable design and font often make identification difficult.

Security Features

Includes a blue, chromium-based Ashoka Chakra hologram for unique identification.

No hologram; often personalised with names, logos, or other elements.

Colour-Coded Stickers

Features colour-coded stickers indicating the vehicle’s fuel type and emission standard.

Lacks colour-coded stickers, making vehicle classification harder.

Laser-Encoded PIN

Comes with a laser-encoded Permanent Identification Number (PIN) for easy tracking via ANPR-enabled cameras.

No laser-encoded PIN, making tracking difficult.

This table highlights the enhanced security and standardisation offered by HSRP plates compared to traditional number plates.

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Conclusion

With the introduction of HSRP, the Indian government is making significant strides toward improving vehicle security and standardising license plates nationwide. By ensuring the installation of High Security Number Plates, vehicle owners comply with the law and protect themselves from potential misuse of their vehicle identity. If you haven’t yet installed your HSRP plate, visit Book My HSRP and follow the simple steps to secure your number plate today.

 

High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) FAQs

 

  1. What is an HSRP?

Ans. The Indian government introduced an HSRP (High Security Registration Plate), a standardized vehicle license plate, to enhance vehicle security and prevent counterfeiting. It features security elements like a chromium-based hologram, laser-etched UID number, and tamper-proof snap locks.

  1. Is HSRP mandatory for all vehicles?

Ans. Yes, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has made it mandatory for all vehicles registered before and after April 1, 2019, to install HSRP plates. Non-compliance may lead to fines or penalties.

  1. What happens if I don’t install an HSRP plate?

Ans. Failure to comply with HSRP requirements can result in fines ranging from INR 5,000 to INR 10,000, depending on state laws and regulations. In some cases, vehicles without HSRP plates may also be impounded.

  1. How can I book my HSRP plate online?

Ans. To book your HSRP online, you can visit authorised websites like Book My HSRP. Follow these steps:

  • Enter your vehicle details, including registration, engine, and chassis numbers.
  • Choose your vehicle type (two-wheeler or four-wheeler).
  • Select your state and RTO.
  • Schedule an appointment for HSRP installation.
  • Complete the payment and receive confirmation via SMS or email.
  1. How much does an HSRP cost?

Ans. The cost of an HSRP plate varies depending on the type of vehicle and the state. For two-wheelers, it typically ranges from INR 200 to INR 500, while for four-wheelers, it may range between INR 400 and INR 1,000.

  1. How long does it take to get an HSRP plate installed?

Ans. After booking online, the HSRP plate is usually ready within 2-3 days. You will then need to visit the designated RTO or an authorised HSRP dealer for installation.

  1. Can I install the HSRP plate myself?

Ans. No, HSRP plates are installed only by authorised dealers or RTOs. The plates are affixed using tamper-proof snap locks to ensure they cannot be removed or replaced without proper authorisation.

  1. What should I do if my HSRP is stolen or damaged?

Ans. If your HSRP plate is damaged or stolen, you must immediately report it to the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO). You can apply for a replacement plate after the same booking and installation process.

  1. Can I get an HSRP plate for old vehicles?

Ans. HSRP is mandatory for all vehicles, including those registered before April 1, 2019. You can book an HSRP plate for older vehicles through authorised websites like Book My HSRP.

  1. How do I check the status of my HSRP booking?

Ans. After booking, you will receive a confirmation with a tracking number or order ID. You can check your booking status by visiting the HSRP website and entering the order ID or tracking number.

  1. Does HSRP plates differ for private and commercial vehicles?

Ans. Private and commercial vehicles have the same HSRP features, including the laser-etched UID, hologram, and tamper-proof locks. The difference only lies in the registration number format, as per standard RTO guidelines.

  1. What documents are required for HSRP installation?

Ans. To get an HSRP plate, you will need to provide:

  • Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
  • Engine number and chassis number
  • ID proof and address proof (in some states). These documents must be presented during the online booking or at installation time.
  1. Are there any penalties for delaying HSRP installation?

Ans. Many state governments have started imposing fines on vehicle owners who delay installing HSRP. To avoid penalties, it is important to get the plate fitted within the stipulated deadline.

  1. What are the security features of HSRP?

Ans. Below are the security features of HSRP:

  • Chromium-based hologram: Ensures the plate’s authenticity.
  • Laser-etched UID: A permanent 10-digit number unique to each plate.
  • Tamper-proof locks: Prevents removal or replacement of the plate.
  • Retro-reflective film: Enhances visibility at night.
  1. Do I need an HSRP for two-wheelers?

Ans. Yes, HSRP is mandatory for all motor vehicles, including two-wheelers. You can book and install an HSRP plate following the same process as four-wheelers.

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