Number Plate Rules in India: Compliance Guide

Posted on: Apr 2, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Number Plate Rules in India: Compliance Guide

The rectangular metal piece on the vehicle depicting the unique license number of the automotive is the number plate. Commercial vehicles and private vehicles have different types of number plates in India. The number plate has 4 distinct components and is fixated on the rear and back end of the vehicle. In this blog, you will learn the number plate rules in India.

Number Plate Rules in India

Running an automotive in India comes with many rules and risks on the road, so you should have car insurance, if you still need to purchase.

Rule 50 and Rule 51 of the India’s Motor Vehicle Act says that:

1. Two-wheelers and light automotive, like cars, must have a white colour background number plate with the registration alphabet and the license number embossed in black.

2. Commercial vehicles must have a black colour background number plate with the registration alphabet and the license number embossed in yellow.

3. The size of the number plates must comply with the type of vehicle.

• For Two and three-wheelers: 200 x 100 mm

• For Light motor vehicles (Passenger Ca): 340 x 200 mm or 500 x 120 mm

• For Medium or Heavy commercial vehicles: 340 x 200 mm

4. The number plate issued by the RTO (Regional Transport Office) should be at the rear and back end of the vehicle.

5. The text on the number plate must be in something other than hard-to-read or calligraphy fonts.

6. Adhere using any other display art, like names and tattoos, on the number plate.

7. You will be penalised if your number plate has:

• The license number written on a piece of paper or cardboard and is pasted on the vehicle

• Any regional language on the number plate will cause a fine for the vehicle owner.

Invest in a comprehensive insurance policy for the safety of your vehicle and to save your pockets burning in case of road mishaps and accidents.

Conclusion

India’s Motor Vehicle Act mandates the vehicle's owner to comply with the formulated rules. Different parts of the number plate depict different meanings (state, sequential number, unique identity number, IND logo). Additionally, if you have missing colour-coded stickers and High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP), you will be fined.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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