RTO Number Plate Rules: Format & Guidelines

Are you sure your vehicles' number plates meet the latest RTO legal standard guideline and format? Currently, a wrong number plate is not negotiable; a single mistake of not following the RTO number plate rules can drain your savings. New guidelines focus on reflective design, high security, and alphanumeric format. Follow the strict RTO number plate rules for two-wheelers for compliance and safety.

Keep reading to understand how to choose compliance, avoid fines, and enjoy a worry-free ride every day by knowing about all the necessary new RTO number plate rules.

What Does a Number Plate Display?

Part 1: State Code

The first part of the number plate denotes the state name. Suppose in the first part of the RTO number plate, letters like ‘DL’ indicate Delhi, ‘MH’ for Maharashtra, ‘GD’ for Gujarat, ‘TN’ for Tamil Nadu, and ‘WB’ for West Bengal. It means the car owner registered the vehicle in a particular state.

Part 2: RTO Number

There are two digits which indicate the sequential number of a state district. This is also known as the RTO (Regional Transport Office) code, which handles registration native of new vehicles. Each district has their own RTO for vehicle and driver registration.

Part 3: Unique Code

In the third part, you can see a unique number that helps identify the particular car. If these numbers are unavailable, the unique number can be replaced with a letter. In case this practice continues, so that all prospective car or two-wheeler owners can have an option to purchase a custom or unique number code.

Part 4: Logo

On a number plate, the last part is the logo, which denotes the country symbol. Your car has a logo of ‘IND’ that reflects India. This particular logo definitely features a chromium hologram that resembles an Ashoka Chakra.

What are the RTO Number Plate Rules in India?

There are a few fundamental guidelines you should follow as a car owner regarding your RTO number plate rules.

1. According to Indian RTO number plate rules 50 and 51 of the Motor Vehicle Act, every owner must have a unique license plate number issued by the district road transport authority.

2. All vehicle owners must have a license plate number and a motor insurance policy. If you own a bike or a car, you need to purchase a motor insurance policy by providing your RTO number. 

3. The registration number and alphabet must be written in black on a white background for last for light vehicles such as bikes and cars. A yellow background is also used to indicate a commercial vehicle.

4. Pictures, fancy alphabets, or any type of artwork or names are not allowed to be written on RTO number plates in India.

5. The RTO number plate has a specific size for each motor vehicle.

6. You must place the RTO number plate on the front and rear sides of your two-wheeler or car. For example, you can set the RTO number plate parallel to the handlebars in the front of your bike like a mudguard.

7. Red RTO number plates are for various state governors and the President of India. It also indicates temporary registration for new cars.

8. Blue RTO number plates with white-coloured letters display the international code for foreign delegates.

9. The license number of the vehicle is written on cardboard or a piece of paper and is pasted on the bike. However, any regional language on the RTO number plate can result in a fine for the vehicle owner.

In such cases, failing to comply with the RTO number plate rule in India can result in penalties or fines.

What are the Rules for Number Plate Size in India?

The size of the number plate, including height spacing and thickness of written letters, is specified in the RTO number plate rules for two-wheelers and cars.

Now, let us know the thickness, height and space details of the number plates:

The tabular information is used for illustrative purposes and better understanding. To know the details, check the wording of the RTO number plate rules.

New Guideline: Rules for New Number Plates in India

The new RTO number plate rules in India reflect that each vehicle must have HSRP (High Security Registration Plates) with colour-coded stickers. This new RTO number plate rule was introduced by the central government on 6th December 2018. Additionally, new RTO number plate rules further denote that if anyone is caught not having HSRP installed while driving, they may have to pay a fine of ₹5,000 to a maximum of ₹10,000.

How to Apply For an HSPR Plate?

A High Security Registration Plate is similar to a standard license plate with a security number made of aluminium fixed onto the front and rear sides of a vehicle. It displays a hot-stamped 20 mm * 20 mm chromium hologram of Ashoka Chakra in blue colour on the top of the left side corner.

Moreover, a 10-digit permanent identification number is also identified on the bottom of the RTO plate number plate in the left corner.

1. To apply for an HSRP plate, go to the official Book My HSRP website.

2. Click on the given option 'book my HSRP' button, and enter all required details in the field.

3. You need to choose the category under the vehicle class field. If you are applying for your private vehicle, you can select the non-transport option.

4. Now, click the submit option and receive your login credentials to your registered mobile number.

5. After logging in with your credentials, you need to pay the booking fee.

6. Once your payment is completed, ensure you download and keep your payment receipt for future reference.

7. You will get an SMS at your registered mobile number about your HSRP number.

Having a motor insurance policy can protect you from third-party liabilities and any traffic fines in certain events or accidents. Check your premiums on the online car insurance calculator of Bajaj General Insurance, and you can include additional covers that suit your coverage needs. This makes it easier to check the reasonable policy coverage and vehicle insurance renewal benefits of your existing policy. 

Connection between RTO Number Plate and Motor Insurance

An RTO number plate is closely connected to motor insurance because both legally register and identify a vehicle. This RTO number plate acts as the official identity of your car on Indian roads. It is also essential to buy motor insurance, since the insurance provider verifies RTO records before issuing and validating your chosen car insurance policy.

In fact, without an RTO number plate, you cannot proceed with vehicle insurance renewal and claim process, as your vehicle can be deemed illegal for driving.

Therefore, having an RTO number plate can ensure smooth insurance processing, legal compliance and proper financial protection of vehicle owners. With insurers like Bajaj General Insurance, accurate RTO details further support hassle-free policy issuance and quicker claim settlements.

You can avoid legal penalties and enjoy easy claim settlement by verifying ownership with RTO-issued number plates.

Final Words

The RTO number plate rules are essential to follow, as the Indian Government has specified a designated position, colour, and design to avoid legal violations.  Driving a car or bike without an RTO number plate is an offence. Finally, check your car insurance renewal date to ensure that you remain insured while driving.

FAQs

What documents are necessary to register my car in India?

To register in India, you first need to visit the nearest RTO and submit the required documents. Documents include Chassis number details, sales certificate, roadworthiness certificate and other personal details.

How many days does it take to have a new car registration number?

Generally, it takes two to three days to get a car registration number. But if the new car registration waiting list is too long, the entire process can take around seven days to complete. In fact, the turnaround time varies in different states.

How can I change the vehicle registration number on my motor insurance policy?

You must inform your insurer of any required changes in your car insurance policy details. Need to submit the proof of changing details in the motor insurance policy. After your insurer completes the verification process, you can ensure the required changes.

What is the temporary validity of a vehicle registration number plate?

The standard validity of a temporary registration number is around 30 days. It means you can receive an extra benefit of obtaining a permanent registration number within the given period.

What is a BH series number plate?

The BH Series number plate indicates Bharat number plate registration, which is for new vehicles. It transfers the vehicle registration across India in a hassle-free process. This Bharat registration series is available for private-sector and government employees, including officers in Union territories and 4 or more states.

*Standard T&C Apply

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