What is HSRP Number Plate: How to Apply, Price, Benefits

If you have just purchased a vehicle, or are thinking about purchasing one, you must have heard about the mandatory High Security Registration Plate or HSRP. It is a standardized vehicle license plate mandated by the Government of India for all motorized road vehicles. With this in mind, you might be wondering why an HSRP plate is mandatory, what are the costs of getting one if you want to, and what is the process to get an HSRP plate for your car. We decode all the necessary information for you and tell you everything you need to know about HSRP number plates. 

What is a High Security Registration Plate?

A High Security Registration Plate is a standardized vehicle license plate. It is designed to increase security and reduce vehicle theft by making it difficult to tamper with or duplicate the plates. If you are wondering why the government decided to upgrade the previous number plate format, it is because of its lack of uniformity. This lack of uniformity made it easier for criminals to forge or remove number plates to conceal them and hindered the ability of traffic cameras to effectively read the license plates. Keeping the high number of vehicle thefts in mind, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) then decided to launch the HSRP plate. Vehicles sold on or after July 2022 now come with HSRP-type number plates by default, several states like Karnataka have now made it mandatory for users to upgrade the number plates of older vehicles before February 17, 2024. Those who do not comply with the law will have to pay a fine of Rs 500 to Rs 1,000, depending on the vehicle type.

Benefits of HSRP Number Plate

1. The HSRP number plates are made with a non-tamperable design using a combination of aluminum and retro-reflective sheets. These materials ensure that any tampering done to the plates is visible easily. 
2. Each HSRP is embedded with a unique laser-engraved code, which is specific to that vehicle. This code makes it much easier to track stolen or lost vehicles.
3. HSRP plates are attached to vehicles using snap locks instead of screws, making them difficult to remove without damaging the plate, thus adding an extra layer of security.
4. To prevent counterfeiting, the top left of the HSRP features a hot-stamped chromium hologram of Ashoka Chakra (India’s national emblem). This makes it easier for authorities to distinguish between fake and real plates.
5. The HSRP plates are designed to reflect light at night, improving visibility in low-light conditions. This feature is especially helpful in road safety, making vehicle number plates more visible to traffic cameras.
6. Recent updates have introduced an additional layer of security with Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) tags embedded within the HSRP plate. This chip stores vital information about the vehicle and is integrated with the government database. RFID enables fast identification by authorities, especially at toll booths and border crossings, by simply scanning the plate.

HSRP Colour-coded sticker

Along with the High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP), vehicles in India are also required to display a color-coded sticker. This sticker is part of the comprehensive security and identification system introduced to enhance vehicle tracking and enforcement. The sticker provides an immediate visual cue of the vehicle’s registration status and helps authorities quickly identify the vehicle’s compliance with the HSRP norms. Each sticker comes with a unique serial number that matches the details on the HSRP. This ensures that the sticker and plate are linked and cannot be swapped without detection. When you get your HSRP installed, the color-coded sticker is usually provided as part of the service. It is applied to the front windshield of the vehicle, ensuring that it is visible and accessible for verification.

How to get a HSRP Number Plate

Option 1: Online Application 

Many states offer an online portal known as Book-My-HSRP for HSRP registration. You need to provide your vehicle registration number, chassis number, and engine number during the process.

Option 2: Authorized dealers 

You can also visit authorized vehicle dealers to order and install HSRP plates. Some state transport departments have authorized specific dealers for this purpose.

Once you have procured your plate using any of the above methods, the HSRP website or the authorized personnel will assign a date and time for the HSRP plate installation. Which you can either get at your home or go over to the authorized dealer. 

How to get the HSRP Color-coded sticker

Option1: Online Registration

If you are registering for HSRP online, the color-coded sticker is often included in the package. Ensure that you follow the online process completely and provide accurate details to receive the sticker along with the HSRP.

Option 2: Authorized Dealers

You can also obtain the sticker from authorized vehicle dealers who offer HSRP installation services. They will ensure that the sticker is correctly applied and matches the details on your HSRP.

Option 3: Transport Department (RTO)

In some states, the transport department may handle the distribution and application of the color-coded sticker. Check with your RTO to find out the procedure specific to your region.

HSRP Registration Process

If you haven’t yet obtained an HSRP for your vehicle, you can easily apply for one online through the Book-My-HSRP website. 

There are certain steps that are required to apply for an HSRP plate through Book My HSRP 

• To book an HSRP online, start by visiting the official Book my HSRP website.
• Enter  details like your vehicle number, engine number, chassis number, fuel type, and contact information
• After inputting a captcha code, proceed to select your preferred fitment location and appointment slot for plate installation.
• Verify the booking details, make the payment, and download the payment receipt for your records.
• Upon completion, you’ll receive a notification on your registered mobile number informing you when your HSRP is ready for installation.
• Finally, wait for a notification on your registered mobile number regarding plate readiness.

Cost of HSRP Number Plate

The cost of HSRP plates varies slightly depending on the type of vehicle, state, and service provider. For two-wheelers, it usually ranges between ₹200-₹500, and for four-wheelers, it may cost between ₹600-₹1,500. It is always recommended to check with an authorized dealer for the exact price.

Fine for Non-Compliance

Driving without an HSRP can attract significant fines. The Indian government has rolled out strict measures to ensure compliance. Non-compliant vehicle owners can face penalties starting from ₹5,000, which may increase for repeat offenses. Besides fines, driving without an HSRP also leaves your vehicle at higher risk of theft.

Exemptions and Special Cases

Some vintage cars or collector’s vehicles are exempt from having an HSRP plate because they have historical or cultural significance. However, exemptions need to be verified with the local transport office.

Summary

The implementation of HSRP is a crucial step in modernizing India’s vehicle registration system, increasing safety, and simplifying tracking mechanisms. If you’re a vehicle owner and still haven’t upgraded to HSRP, now is the time to act! This small yet significant change can protect your vehicle from theft, avoid penalties, and contribute to safer roads for everyone!

FAQs on HSRP Number Plate

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