In recent years, the Indian government has taken several steps to improve road safety and regulate vehicle identification. One of the most significant initiatives in this direction has been the introduction of the HSRP number plate system. If you're a vehicle owner or planning to purchase a vehicle soon, understanding what an HSRP number plate is, why it's important, and how to get one is crucial Hsrp number plate . In this article, we dive deep into all aspects of HSRP number plates.
What is an HSRP Number Plate?
HSRP stands for High-Security Registration Plate. It is a new standard for vehicle license plates introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in India. The main objective behind introducing HSRP number plates is to prevent vehicle theft, ensure uniformity, and enhance security.
An HSRP number plate is made of aluminum and comes with several security features, such as:
A unique laser-etched code.
A chromium-based hologram.
A hot-stamped IND (India) inscription.
Tamper-proof snap locks that permanently attach the plate to the vehicle.
The new number plates also help in creating a centralized database of vehicles, making it easier for authorities to track and identify them if necessary.
Key Features of HSRP Number Plates
To better understand the importance of HSRP plates, let’s take a closer look at their features:
1. Unique Laser Code
Each HSRP number plate has a unique laser-etched identification number at the bottom left corner. This code is stored in a central database along with the details of the vehicle and its owner. It plays a critical role in preventing duplication and cloning of number plates.
2. Chromium Hologram
A chromium-based hologram of Ashoka Chakra is hot-stamped on the plate. Unlike stickers used in the past, this hologram cannot be tampered with or removed easily, offering an extra layer of security.
3. IND Hot Stamping
The letters "IND" are hot-stamped in blue on the left side of the plate. This signifies that the vehicle is registered in India and is an essential distinguishing feature.
4. Snap Locks
HSRP plates are fitted using tamper-proof, non-reusable snap locks instead of screws. Once installed, the plate cannot be removed without visibly damaging it, thereby deterring theft or misuse.
5. Color Coding for Stickers
New rules also require a color-coded sticker indicating the type of fuel used by the vehicle:
Light blue for petrol and CNG vehicles.
Orange for diesel vehicles.
Green for electric vehicles.
These stickers further help enforcement agencies in categorizing and managing vehicles.
Why Are HSRP Number Plates Important?
The introduction of HSRP number plates was not merely for cosmetic upgrades. There are several important reasons behind this initiative:
1. Prevention of Vehicle Theft
One of the biggest advantages of HSRP plates is their role in preventing vehicle theft. Since each plate is uniquely coded and registered in a government database, stolen vehicles can be traced more efficiently.
2. Uniformity Across States
Before HSRP, the design and font of number plates varied widely between states and even individual owners. With the HSRP system, uniformity has been enforced across India, making it easier for law enforcement to identify vehicles.
3. Enhanced Road Safety
HSRP number plates make it easier to track vehicles involved in accidents or crimes. Their tamper-proof nature ensures that changing plates or vehicle identity becomes very difficult.
4. Compliance with Supreme Court Orders
The Supreme Court of India directed all states to implement HSRP for vehicles to ensure better regulation and management. Thus, using HSRP plates is a matter of legal compliance as well.
Is HSRP Number Plate Mandatory?
Yes, the government has made it mandatory for all new vehicles sold after April 1, 2019, to come fitted with an HSRP number plate. For older vehicles, owners are required to replace their traditional plates with HSRP as per directives from their respective state governments.
Failure to comply with HSRP regulations can lead to penalties, including hefty fines. Various states have already begun issuing challans for vehicles without HSRP.
How to Get an HSRP Number Plate?
The process of obtaining an HSRP number plate has been made straightforward:
1. Online Booking
Many states allow vehicle owners to book their HSRP plates online. The process generally involves:
Visiting the official HSRP website of the respective state or authorized vendors.
Filling in vehicle details (registration number, chassis number, engine number, etc.).
Choosing a preferred fitment center and appointment date.
Making an online payment.
2. Offline Booking
Alternatively, authorized dealerships also offer HSRP fitment services. You can visit a dealership or designated center with your vehicle documents and get the plates fitted.
3. Documents Required
Typically, the following documents are required:
Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
Owner’s identification proof
Invoice/payment receipt (for new vehicles)
The plates are fitted at authorized centers to ensure that the snap locks are properly installed.
Cost of HSRP Number Plates
The cost of HSRP number plates varies from state to state and depending on the vehicle type. However, typical charges are:
Two-wheelers: ₹300 to ₹500
Four-wheelers: ₹600 to ₹1100
This price often includes the cost of the color-coded fuel sticker.
HSRP and Color-Coded Stickers: What's the Difference?
Many vehicle owners confuse HSRP number plates with the new color-coded stickers. It is important to note that HSRP and color-coded stickers are separate requirements, although they are often installed together.
While the HSRP plate focuses on security and standardization, color-coded stickers primarily serve environmental and regulatory purposes by indicating the type of fuel used.
Challenges in HSRP Implementation
Despite the government's efforts, the implementation of HSRP number plates has faced challenges such as:
Awareness Gap: Many vehicle owners, especially in rural areas, are still unaware of the mandatory nature of HSRP.
Delays and Shortages: Some states have reported delays in fitting due to supply chain issues.
Fraudulent Vendors: Fake HSRP vendors have cropped up in some areas, duping customers. It’s important to always choose government-authorized centers.
Conclusion
The introduction of the HSRP number plate is a landmark move towards better vehicle security and regulatory uniformity in India. While the initial cost and effort may seem like a hassle for vehicle owners, the long-term benefits in terms of safety, security, and legal compliance are significant.