What is a HSRP Number Plate: Everything Vehicle Owners Must Know

Imagine this: you are on a road trip, ready for a fun, relaxing time away from the stress of your daily routine. Suddenly, you get stopped by the traffic police. The reason? Your car doesn’t have a HSRP number plate. You are not alone. Many vehicle owners across India don’t know what is an HSRP number plate, why it is mandatory to have one, and the process to get it installed. Having an HSRP number plate in India is a reform the government has been pushing for years, and today, it is at a stage where compliance is no longer optional. With a strict deadline and heavy fines, understanding this rule is crucial for every vehicle owner.

Are you a new vehicle owner wondering what are the HSRP number plate rules, and how you can get them? Then keep reading, because in this guide, we will cover everything from the meaning, to the security features, and application process, fees, benefits as well as the penalties. 

What is HSRP? The Full Form and Purpose

HSRP number plates’ meaning is simple. Standing for ‘High-Security Registration Plate,’ It was introduced under the Motor Vehicles Act 1988. The HSRP number plate is mandatory in India, as per the rules set by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in 2019. The difference between HSRP and normal number plate is that the former is highly secure, standardised and connected to a central database. Here are some key facts you need to keep in mind.

• They are mandatory for all vehicles, whether newly purchased or already on the road. 

• Each plate is permanently linked to a vehicle’s chassis and engine number. 

• The system makes it nearly impossible to forge or duplicate number plates. 

Why Was This Needed?

Fake number plates were being widely used for illegal activities, such as theft, smuggling and accidents. Since ordinary plates can be easily duplicated, it made tracking the vehicle very difficult. This is where the benefits of the HSRP number plate comes in. A digitised number plate is easier to track, effectively stopping any kind of illegal activities.

In case you are having doubts, this is not an extra tax, or a recurring charge, but a one-time security upgrade that protects your vehicle’s identity.

Why is HSRP Mandatory in India?

As mentioned before, the mandatory rule is a national directive by MoRTH. It was compulsory for all vehicles to have an HSRP by December 31, 2024. Some states may allow for short extensions, but the enforcement is strict.

Legally, Rules 50 and 59 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) clearly state the requirement for standardised plates. No matter where you buy or register your vehicle, the plate looks the same across India.

For example, before the HSRP was implemented, if a car was stolen in Delhi and then taken to another state, it was easy to put a fake plate and escape detection. Now with a laser PIN that is linked to the vehicle database, police can instantly check authenticity.

It may seem like an extra step, but this system is designed for national security and road safety.

Key Security Features of HSRP Number Plate

HSRP plates’ features may look clean and simple, but in reality are packed with security technology. Here’s a simple breakdown: 

These plates are manufactured only by authorised vendors who have been approved by state RTOs, so ordinary garages or local shops cannot issue them. 

Benefits of HSRP for Vehicle Owners

There are several personal benefits of HSRP number plates:

• Reduces vehicle theft: A stolen vehicle with an HSRP can’t easily be re-registered or resold. 

• Police-friendly tracking: With the PIN, authorities can pull up all the vehicles’ details instantly. 

• Avoids heavy fines: Traffic police actively check for compliance, and fines can cross Rs 5000. 

• Clean, uniform look: HSRPs give your vehicle a professional and modern appearance. 

• Durability: These plates are also rust, fading and breakage resistant, which means you won’t need frequent replacements.

How to Apply for HSRP Online?

There is a simple answer to the common question you might have: how to apply for an HSRP number plate online? 

Step 1: Visit the official portal
This is either https://bookmyhsrp.com/ or your state-specific RTO portal. 

Step 2: Choose the state and RTO where your vehicle is registered

Step 3: Choose Vehicle Type
Is it a two-wheeler, four-wheeler or a commercial vehicle?

Step 4: Enter vehicle details
The registration number, chassis number and engine number, which can be found in the RC. 

Step 5: Pick an installation centre
Choose the location that is most convenient for you. 

Step 6: Make the online payment
Charges may vary from Rs 1,100 to Rs 2,100, and you can choose any payment method. 

Step 7: Receive booking confirmation
You will get SMS and email updates. 

Step 8: Visit the fitment centre
Make sure you carry your RC and an ID proof

Step 9: Installation
The process takes just 15 to 20 minutes

Step 10: Database update
The vendor will then update the HSRP’s details in the central Parivahan database.

Don’t delay booking your HSRP, since there are limited slots on the official portal.

HSRP Fees in India

Paying the HSRP number plate price or fees is a crucial step in getting the number plate for your vehicle. Here is a state-wise breakdown that will make it easy to understand the prices.

These prices usually include both plates, as well as a third sticker that is a colour-coded fuel type sticker for the windshield.

What Happens if You Don’t Have an HSRP?

HSRP number plate compliance is compulsory, and not following this rule may lead to strict penalties because this is a national security measure.

• First offences lead to a Rs 5000 fine under Section 177 of the MV Act. 

• Repeat offence means that you have to pay Rs 10,000 fine and face possible vehicle impoundment. 

• Some insurers could reject or delay your insurance claims if the vehicle doesn’t have an HSRP. 

• Police at interstate toll booths and highways also specifically look for HSRP plates.

Why PPF is Important for HSRP Number Plates

While high-security registration plates in India are already durable and fade-resistant, applying an additional PPF layer will increase protection from external factors. Shield your HSRP from scratches, rust and fading caused by UV rays, rain, extreme weather, and intense traffic.

High-quality PPF, made from Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), like Garware Hi-Tech Films’ range, also ensures tamper-proofing for your number plate, preventing peeling or alterations. It also improves the visibility of the security marks of the Ashoka Chakra Hologram and the IND hot stamp.

Use only MoRTH-approved PPF to ensure authenticity. This is one of the main differences between HSRP and a normal number plate: the former usually lasts much longer.

How to Spot a Fake HSRP Plate?

Unfortunately, duplicate HSRP versions are still circulating in the market, but there are some simple ways that you can identify them:

• No or dull Ashoka Chakra hologram. 

• Missing or wrong IND hot-stamp in blue. 

• No laser PIN or a PIN that is etched with low quality. 

• Plates that are attached with normal screws instead of snap locks. 

• Plate details that are not traceable on the Parivahan database.

If you suspect that the HSRP is fake, visit your nearest RTO to get it replaced with an authentic one.

FAQs

1. What is an HSRP number plate?
   High-security registration plates in India are a government-approved tamper-proof registration plate that has a hologram, PIN, and snap locks.

2. Why is the HSRP number plate mandatory in India?
   It prevents fake plates,  helps reduce theft, and ensures easy tracing of vehicles across India. 

3. What is the use of the HSRP number plate?
   It secures your vehicle’s identity, ensures easy tracking, and improves road safety. 

4. How do I apply for an HSRP number plate online?
   Visit the Book my HSRP portal, select your state, enter the vehicle’s details, complete the online payment, and book a fitment centre appointment.

5. What is the price of an HSRP number plate in India?
   The price ranges differently across states, and often depends on which state you live in.

6. Is the HSRP number plate mandatory for old vehicles?
   Yes, all vehicles, whether old or new, should have HSRP plates.

7. What are the benefits of an HSRP number plate?
   They prevent theft, help avoid heavy penalties, ensure easy police tracking, and give a uniform look while being durable.

8. What is the difference between an HSRP and a normal number plate?
   Normal plates can be duplicated easily, while HSRPs have security features and are linked to a central database.

9. What documents are required for an HSRP number plate?
   You will need the registration certificate and a valid ID proof.

10. What happens if I don’t install an HSRP number plate?
    You may face fines of up to Rs 10,000, vehicle impoundment, and possible insurance claim issues. 

Final Thoughts

HSRP number plates are not just a legal formality, but a security necessity. By making every vehicle traceable, you can ensure that your car or bike does not get stolen or get a fake plate, and that the roads are safer for everyone.
Book your HSRP online today, and don’t wait for the traffic police to flag your vehicle on a routine highway check!
Visit https://bookmyhsrp.com/ now and schedule an installation, and don’t forget to install Garware PPF to protect your new number plate and your vehicle!