What Are the Different Types of Number Plates in India?

admin - June 20, 2025 - 0 Comments

Understanding the Types of Number Plates in India

Vehicle number plates in India serve more than identity goals. They are embedded with visual and technical codes that increase protection through ownership types, purposes, fuel types, and even High-Security Registration Plates (HSRPS). Understanding the types of number plates in India is important for motorists, law enforcement, transport planning, and national security.
In this blog, we explore the different types of vehicle number plates used in India, how to decode them, the importance of their colors and formats, and a broad guide for HSRP-India's latest solution for tamper-proof vehicle identification.

Why are the Number Plates so Important?

The number plates may look like simple identifiers, but they play an important role in the Indian transport ecosystem. In addition to having a string of numbers and letters, they carry significant weight regarding legal compliance, public security, ownership confirmation, and traffic regime.

Here is the understanding of their meaning that is necessary for the owner of each vehicle:

1. Legal identity

The number plate acts as the primary legal identity of a vehicle. Just as individuals have a unique identity, such as Aadhaar or PAN, each car should have a unique registration number issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO). This ensures that:

The car is officially registered under the Register of Government.
Officers can learn the history of ownership and usage.
Vehicles can be monitored and managed in the transport system.

According to the Motor Vehicles Act, using a vehicle without a registered number plate is a criminal offense. This non-pervasive requirement causes vehicles to be tracked and responsible on public roads.

2. Ownership Classification

The number of plates is also a visual indicator of the ownership relationship and vehicle use type. The color and format of the plate immediately explain whether there is a vehicle:

Privately owned (white plate)
Used for commercial purposes such as passenger or goods transport (yellow plate)
A government ramp (red symbol or special code)
Environmentally friendly electric vehicle (green plate)
Diplomatic or military vehicle (blue or special code format)

This classification helps the public and traffic officials identify a vehicle's purpose and implement the rules accordingly. For example, a commercial vehicle with a private plate for business can be fined or registration revoked.

3. Security and Monitoring

Modern cities are quickly equipped with CCTV and traffic monitoring systems, making the number plate an important tool for maintaining safety. Similarly, keep your vehicle safe with the best paint protection film from The Detailing Mafia. Paint Protection Film assists in protecting your vehicle from harmful environmental elements.

With the use of ANPR (Automated Number Plate Recognition) technology, help the number plates:

Find out about theft or suspected vehicles in real-time.
Use the speed limit and the red light.
Monitor vehicles in sensitive or limited areas.
Help with a criminal investigation by tracking a suspected vehicle.

The tamper-proof number plate, especially the High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP), reduces the possibility of repetition, making law enforcement more efficient.

4. Regulatory Compliance

Different government policies depend on vehicle data directly related to the number plates. This includes:

Fuel-based classification: Help identify electric (green plates), diesel, or petrol cars for zoning regulation and emissions.
Taxation: State-specific road taxes, toll exemptions, and commercial tax rules numbers are on the number plate types.
Congestion management: Program a number plate rule, such as odd-even or zone-based access restrictions, to regulate traffic volume.

In short, the number of plates acts as a compliance pass and ensures that the vehicle follows regional, environmental, and tax rules.

In summary, number plates are not only required by the law but are central to a safe, more organized, and digital monitoring of the road system. Whether to confirm ownership, identify criminal activity, or implement an environmentally friendly policy, the number of records serves as the first data layer in India's developed mobility networks.

Standard Format for Number Plates in India

Each automobile in India must display various plates (registration plates) that follow a preferred structure by the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), 1989. This standardization guarantees uniformity, validity, and easy identification throughout the United States. Whether you register a wheeler, car, bus, or truck, the different plate layouts are consistent with a mixture of objectives and digits with specific meanings.

Here is a breakdown of this layout using an instance to understand what each element suggests.

Example: MH 12 AB 1234

This alphanumeric sequence may additionally appear random at first glance; however, it's far from a carefully coded system. It works like this:

1. State Code - 'MH'

The first letters reflect the state area where the vehicle is registered.

MH for Maharashtra
DL for Delhi
KA for Karnataka
TN for Tamil Nadu, and so on

India has 29 states and eight union territories, each with its own nominated codes. This enables the discovery of the car's geographical origin.

2. RTO code - '12'

The next two digits represent the Regional Transport Office (RTO) or the district wherein the vehicle is registered within the state.

For example, MH12 Pune RTO suits in Maharashtra
MH 01 will refer to Mumbai (south)
Each state includes numerous RTOs, each with a particular code to streamline nearby car registration, taxation, and road regulations.

3. Series code - 'AB'

The third set is manufactured from letters; the alphabet is the chain code. This series enables increasing the capability of the registration number and ensures specificity as the number of automobiles increases.

When the first series (say 'aa') ends (i.e., when the range reaches 9999), the next collection is used ('AB,' then 'AC,' and so on).

This prevents repetition and allows registration places of work to release the brand-new range efficiently.

In some states, the chain code may be reserved or assigned separately, primarily based on vehicles, fuel types, or the form of authority used.

4. Registration number - '1234'

The remaining four digits are the precise identity variety of the vehicle in the particular RTO and the collection. This is mostly a number from 0001 to 9999.

Some numbers are allotted step by step

Some 'VIP' or 'Fancy' Numbers (e.g., 1111, 0000, 9999) have been auctioned and allotted at a high price.

These four digits separate one automobile from another inside the same location and chain and are critical for the police information, coverage, and visitor safety database.

5. Additional versions

While the XX 00 XX 0000 format stays strong, special categories of cars such as BH (India collection), army motors, or diplomatic automobiles can comply with a few alternative forms, however, always with traceability.

Different Types of Plates in India (color-coded)

In India, the number plates are not just about unique identity-type vehicles but also about the intended use and the owner's legal or diplomatic positions to visually express it. This visual classification helps traffic users, traffic enforcement, and authorities identify the nature of a vehicle.

Let's find out the most important types of plates used in India and what they show each:

1. White number plate (Private Vehicle)

Text Color: Black
Background color: White.
User: For non-commercial, privately owned vehicles.
Ownership: Person or private organization.

This is the most common number plate you want to see on Indian roads. They are strictly reserved for vehicles for personal use, such as private cars, motorcycles, and scooters. Vehicles with white plates are not allowed for commercial activity, such as transport or pricing for travelers. It is illegal to do so, so a fine or registration can be canceled.

2. Yellow number plate (commercial vehicle)

Text Color: Black.
Background Color: Yellow.
Applications: For commercial vehicles such as taxis, buses, trucks, and vans.
Ownership: Business, transport operator, and fleet owner.

A yellow number plate vehicle indicates that the car is used for commercial purposes, including goods or passenger transport. These vehicles are subject to high taxes, commercial vehicle insurance, and further transport laws and safety norms. If a yellow plate vehicle is used for private reasons (for example, school drops), it should still be served under commercial guidelines.

3. Black number plate with yellow letters (rental or transport vehicle)

Text Color: Yellow.
Background Color: Black.
Applications: For self-driving cars and bikes (e.g., Zoomcar, Revv, Bounce).
Ownership: Commercial fleet operator.

This plate type is commercially registered but legally available for personal use during leases. It allows users to drive without needing a commercial driver's license. These plates are usually seen on vehicles offered through shared mobility or self-driven rental platforms, which are becoming increasingly popular in Indian cities.

4. Blue number plate (diplomatic vehicle)

Text Color: White.
Background Color: Blue.
User: Vehicles used by foreign diplomats, consulates, and embassy employees.
Identification: The plates usually begin with 'CD' (Core Diplomatic) or 'CC' (Consular Corps).

These vehicles belong to diplomatic missions and are equipped with special privileges, including release from some traffic rules, tax exemptions, and immunity from other international security under the Vienna Convention. These plates reflect the international diplomatic presence of the Ministry of External Affairs, India, and the country.

5. Red number plate India (temporary registration)

Text Color: White
Background Color: Red
User: Vehicles purchased new and waiting for permanent registration
Validity: Usually valid for 30 days

The dealer and the authorized RTO issue temporary red registration plates. These plates allow the vehicle to operate legally on the road during the registration process window. When the RTO issues a permanent registration number, this red plate should be immediately replaced with the official number plate.

6. Green Number Plate (Electric Vehicle)

Text color: White (for private EV) AND Yellow (for commercial EV)
Background color: Green
Motive: A vehicle is fully electric (EV).
Special Benefits:
Toll exemptions on selected highways.
Reserved parking space.
Tax exemption in some states.
Preference Treatment under the FAME India Scheme.

This plate supports the government's pressure for sustainable mobility and environmentally friendly transport. Assisting in separating electric vehicles from combustion engines helps promote their adoption.

7. Red number plate with national symbol (Chairman / Governor Vehicles)

Text Color: Gold or None
Background Color: Red
User: Official vehicles in India, State Governor, and High-Ranked Constitutional Dignitaries
Special facility: Instead of a registration number, these plates demonstrate the national symbol of India

Formal plates symbolize the high constitutional authority. Such vehicles have top-level protocols and security privileges and are rarely seen on ordinary roads besides official processes or convoys.

8. (Military Number Plate (Defense Vehicles)

Lesson color: White
Background color: Black or olive green
Published by: Department of Defense
Especially format:

Start with an upward (wide arrow) symbol.
Further, there is a series of letters and numbers.

Example: ↑ 09B 123456P

This format differs from civil registration systems and is administered by military departments instead of the RTO. The arrow symbol represents military ownership, and each part of the alphanumeric string has a specific military term.

9. In the BH Series Number Plate (India Series)

Text Color: Black
Background color: White
Format: YY BH ### XX
YY: Registration Year
BH: India Series code
#### URY#: 4-Digit Number
XX: Random letter
Objective: Designed for pan-India registration

Qualification:

Central/State Government, PSU, Defense Employees.
Private sector employees in companies with offices in 4 or more states.

Benefits:

Registration is not required when transferred to the state.
Equal to the road certificate under the Vahan Portal
Simplified ownership transfer

The BH series number plate India was launched in 2021 and introduced to reduce bureaucratic friction for people in transferable jobs and support spontaneous vehicle movement within state boundaries.

Types of Number Plates in India

Below, you can see the table that differentiates various types of number plates in India.

Number Plate Type	Text Color	Background Color	Usage
White Plate	Black	White	Private use
Yellow plate	Black	Yellow	Commercial use
Black Plate	Yellow	Balck	Rental/self-drive
Blue Plate	White	Blue	Diplomatic missions
Red Plate	White	Red	Temporary registration
Green Plate	White/ Yellow	Green	Electric vehicles
Red + Emblem	Gold/None	Red	President/Governor
Military Plate	White	Black/Green	Armed forces
BH Series Plate	Black	White	Inter-state transferable jobs

The Indian vehicle's number plate system is designed to promote order, traceability, and legal compliance. Each color-coded plate reflects the purpose, ownership type, or special location of a vehicle, making it easier for traffic authorities and residents to understand its use instantly.
From promoting power dynamics with green plates through the BH series, the number plates develop with India's growing dynamic needs. Whether you buy a vehicle, rent one, or are just curious about the number plate types, they add a layer of consciousness and responsibility for each road user.

What is HSRP number plate (High-Security Registration Plate)?

An HSRP is a tamper-proof, chromium-based number plate introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). This vehicle is built with safety features to handle theft, forgery, and illegal registration.

Important features of HSRP:

Aluminium plate: Non-breakable and weather-resistant
Unique laser code: Etched by a 10-digit PIN with laser, unique to each vehicle
Hot-Stamped Ind logo: Top left corner of the plate
Blue Ashok Chakra Hologram: Tamper-proof symbol of authenticity
Non-Removable Snap Lock: When installed, it cannot be removed without spoiling the plate
Color-coded stickers: A 3rd registration sticker with details such as fuel type, registration number, etc, attached to the windshield.

The Benefits of HSRP:

Stolen preventive: Tampering without detection is almost impossible.
Uniformity: In all Indian states and UTs
Law enforcement: Simple identity and traces of stolen or duplicated vehicles
Digital mail: Laser code is stored in a centralized database for quick access

Is HSRP compulsory in India?

Yes, according to recent information:

For new vehicles: HSRP is compulsory from April 2019
For old vehicles: Vehicle owners aim to retrofit HSRP in a phased way.
Penalty: Running without HSRP can result in a fine of ₹5,000- ₹10,000 under the MV law
State authorities drive awareness and enforcement drives to encourage compliance.

How to get HSRP for your vehicle?

Here is a step-by-step process:

Visit the official HSRP portal for your state (many states use SIM-supported vendor pages)
Enter vehicle details such as registration, chassis, and engine numbers.
Choose the fitting center and time slot.
Pay online fees (usually ₹ 400–₹ 600)
Go to the center and install it

Note: Only authorized suppliers should install HSRPs.

Number plate rules you should follow

To avoid fines and ensure legal compliance:

Use standard font and size according to CMVR.
Do not use fancy fonts, stickers, or regional language scripts.
Install only government-officer HSRPs
Do not change or cover the plate of beauty for personal reasons.
Show front and back plates properly at all times.

Interesting Facts and General Knowledge

The vehicles registered before April 2019 must be voluntarily upgraded to HSRP in most states.
HSRPS vehicles and Parivahan are connected to the database, causing the car to make tracking seamless
Electric vehicles with green plates often get parking and toll incentives.
Broad Arrow Military plates are dated to British India.

The Future of Number Plates in India

With the progress of IoT, AI, and smart city infrastructure, Indian number plates are developing. Future potential development is involved:

RFID-enabled plates for automated toll collection and traffic management
Integration with the ANPR system for crime control
Digital license plates that change color or text to display an alert or violation
QR code-based authentication for ownership and insurance status verification

Conclusion

Understanding the types of number plates in India is more than general knowledge; it is a matter of legal awareness and personal responsibility. Every day, every kind serves a different purpose, from white and yellow plates to modernized HSRP technology and green plates assisting India's EV transition.

Being a vehicle owner is not just about matching the correct number plate and upgrading to HSRP; it is also about traffic safety and being a responsible citizen. You should keep your car spotless and get detailing done by an expert car detailer, The Detailing Mafia.