India is a country that is known for its diverse culture, rich history, and varied traditions. One of the lesser-known aspects of this diversity is the different types of number plates that are used on vehicles across the country. From red number plates to blue number plates and everything in between, each type of number plate has a unique significance and purpose.
In this article, we will explore the various types of number plates that can be found in India and what they represent. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the country, understanding the different types of number plates can provide valuable insights into the culture, laws, and regulations of India’s transportation system.
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Different types of Number Plates and their meaning
White number plate
In India, a white number plate is typically used to display the registration number of a non-commercial vehicle, such as a personal car or motorcycle.
The format of the white number plate varies depending on the state or union territory where the vehicle is registered. But in general, the format is a series of letters and numbers that show the state code, the district code, and the vehicle’s registration number.
For example, in the state of Maharashtra, the white number plate for a personal vehicle may have the format “MH XX AB 1234”, where “MH” is the state code, “XX” represents the district code, and “AB 1234” is the registration number of the vehicle.
Yellow number plate
Yellow number plates are used for commercial vehicles such as taxis, buses, and trucks. These vehicles are required to have a yellow number plate with black text.
The yellow number plate system was introduced in India to distinguish commercial vehicles from private ones. The yellow color was chosen as it is easily distinguishable from the white color used for private vehicles.
Apart from the color, the format of the yellow number plate is also different from that of private vehicles. The yellow plate typically starts with a two-letter state code followed by two to four digits and ends with numbers denoting the registration number. For example, a taxi in Delhi might have a number plate reading “DL 01 TA 1234”, where “DL” is the state code for Delhi, “TA” denotes that it is a taxi, and “1234” is the registration number.
Green number plate
The green number plate in India is a special type of license plate that is used to identify electric vehicles (EVs). These plates are designed to help distinguish electric vehicles from other vehicles on the road.
The plate features a green background with white lettering and numbers and an emblem of a white lotus with green petals and a plug in the center.
The green number plate is only issued to fully electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles that meet certain criteria, including a minimum electric range of 40 km for hybrid vehicles and 80 km for fully electric vehicles. The plate also allows EV owners to take advantage of certain incentives and benefits offered by the government, such as preferential parking, exemption from certain toll fees, and other incentives.
Red number plate
Red number plates are usually put on vehicles in India that are going through temporary registration or are being used for testing. These red number plates are used to indicate that the vehicle has not yet been issued a permanent registration number.
These plates are issued to vehicles that are not yet registered with the Regional Transport Office (RTO) but are being used on public roads for various reasons, such as transit, demonstration, and testing.
It’s worth noting that the rules and regulations regarding temporary registration number plates may vary from state to state in India. It’s always a good idea to check with the local RTO or whoever is in charge to find out about specific rules and requirements.
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Blue number plate
In India, a car with a blue license plate usually belongs to a foreign diplomatic mission like an embassy or consulate. These plates are given out by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and all diplomatic vehicles and vehicles used for official diplomatic business must have them.
Blue license plates usually have white letters and numbers, and they may also have a logo or emblem that shows the country where the car was made or its diplomatic status. Under international law, cars with blue license plates are given certain rights and protections. This means that they usually don’t have to pay local taxes, tolls, or other fees.
It’s not necessary that all vehicles belonging to foreign diplomatic missions in India are required to use blue number plates. Some vehicles may use regular Indian license plates or other special plates depending on their specific status and purpose.
Black number plate
Black number plates are used for commercial vehicles that are registered as self-driven rental cars. These vehicles are rented out to individuals who wish to drive themselves, typically for a short period of time.
The rules and regulations regarding the use of black number plates may vary by state in India. In some states, black number plates may also be used for other types of commercial vehicles, such as trucks or buses.
It is important to note that the use of black number plates is strictly reserved for commercial vehicles in India. Private vehicles are not allowed to have black number plates, and doing so can result in fines or other penalties.
Number plate with an upward-pointing arrow
A number plate with an upward-pointing arrow is typically used to indicate that the vehicle belongs to the armed forces. This type of number plate is reserved for the armed forces, such as the army and navy.
The armed forces number plate is issued by the Ministry of Defense and is required for all vehicles provided for members of the army, navy, air force, or other branches of the Indian armed forces. These plates are different from regular Indian license plates and are subject to their own set of rules and regulations.
Most of the time, cars with armed forces license plates don’t have to follow certain traffic rules and regulations, like speed limits and parking rules. In addition, they may be allowed to use special lanes or routes that are reserved for emergency vehicles.
Red number plate with the emblem of India
Red number plates with the government emblem are typically used for vehicles that are owned and operated by the central government or state governments. High-ranking government officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries may travel in these vehicles.
The emblem of India that appears on these number plates is the national emblem, which features a replica of the Lion Capital of Ashoka, along with the words “Satyameva Jayate” in Devanagari script, which means “Truth Alone Triumphs” in English.
It is important to note that the use of red number plates with the emblem of India is strictly reserved for government-owned vehicles in India. Private vehicles are not allowed to have this type of number plate, and doing so can result in fines or other penalties.
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Number plates rules in India
The Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, and the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, in India both regulate the use of number plates on vehicles. Here are some important rules and regulations regarding number plates in India:
- Every motor vehicle in India must have a number plate. The number plate should be clearly visible and legible from a distance.
- Private vehicles must have a white number plate with black lettering. The letters and numbers on the number plate should be in English.
- Commercial vehicles, including taxis, cabs, buses, and trucks, must have a yellow number plate with black lettering.
- Rental cars, which are self-driven cars available for hire, must have a black number plate with yellow lettering.
- Vehicles that are owned and operated by the government, including those used by government officials, must have a red number plate with white lettering and the emblem of India.
- The size of the number plate should be 20 cm x 10 cm for the front plate and 22 cm x 12 cm for the rear plate.
- The number plate should be securely attached to the vehicle and should not be obscured by any part of the vehicle, including the number plate holder.
- It is illegal to alter or modify the number plate in any way, including changing the color, lettering, or design.
- Violation of any of these rules may result in fines or other penalties.
Components of a Number Plates
The number plate of a vehicle in India has several components, including:
- Registration Mark: The registration mark is a combination of letters and numbers that are assigned to the vehicle by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) when the vehicle is registered. The registration mark is unique to each vehicle and is used to identify the vehicle.
- State Code: The first two letters on the number plate indicate the state or union territory where the vehicle is registered. For example, the state code for Delhi is DL, while the state code for Maharashtra is MH.
- Emblem: In some cases, the number plate may also have an emblem, such as the national emblem of India, to indicate that the vehicle is owned and operated by the government.
- Color: The color of the number plate varies depending on the type of vehicle. Private vehicles have a white number plate, while commercial vehicles have a yellow number plate. Rental cars have a black number plate with yellow lettering, and vehicles registered under the International Convention on the Transport of Goods (TIR) have a blue number plate with white lettering.
- Font: The letters and numbers on the number plate should be in English and should be clearly visible and legible from a distance. The font used on the number plate is usually standard and may vary depending on the state.
- Size: The size of the number plate is regulated by law and should be 20 cm x 10 cm for the front plate and 22 cm x 12 cm for the rear plate.
Types of Number Plates Summary
In India, there are various types of number plates used for different types of vehicles. The most common type is the white background plate with black letters and numbers, which is used for private cars and bikes. Commercial vehicles have yellow plates with black letters, while government vehicles have white plates with blue letters. Diplomatic vehicles have white plates with red letters.
There are also special types of number plates, such as those used for vehicles of foreign missions, which designate their special status and making them easier to identify.
FAQ about Types of Number Plates
Q. Why do electric vehicles have green number plates?
The green number plate is provided for electric vehicles only. It also helps to identify and track electric vehicles for government initiatives related to electric mobility, such as the FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles) India scheme.
Q. How many days does it take for a number plate to be delivered?
In general, it usually takes between 7 and 15 days for a number plate to be delivered to the vehicle owner after the registration process is complete. However, in some cases, it may take longer if there are delays in the manufacturing or distribution processes.
Q. How much do the number plates cost?
The cost of number plates in India varies depending on the type of vehicle and the type of number plate required. Here are some approximate costs for different types of number plates in India:
White number plate for private vehicles: The cost of a standard white number plate with black lettering for a private vehicle is around ₹400 to 600.
