With the increasing emphasis on road safety and vehicle regulation, HSRP registration has become a vital requirement for vehicle owners across India. High-Security Registration Plates (HSRPs) are designed to curb vehicle theft, enhance traceability, and improve compliance with road traffic regulations. This article provides an in-depth look into HSRP registration, its significance, the process involved, and the legal implications of non-compliance.
What is HSRP?
HSRP, or High-Security Registration Plate, is a tamper-proof number plate made of aluminum. It is equipped with several security features including a chromium-based hologram, a laser-etched serial number Hsrp registration , and a hot-stamped IND (India) legend. These plates are designed to be standardized and securely fixed to all vehicles registered in India.
The Government of India, through the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), mandated the installation of HSRPs to ensure uniformity and to help law enforcement agencies track vehicles more effectively.
Why is HSRP Registration Important?
HSRP registration serves several critical purposes:
1. Enhanced Security
The tamper-proof nature of HSRPs prevents unauthorized plate replacement, which is a common tactic used by vehicle thieves. This significantly reduces vehicle-related crimes.
2. Uniform Identification
Standardized plates across all states ensure that vehicles can be easily identified by authorities, regardless of where they are from.
3. Better Law Enforcement
HSRPs support automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems used in CCTV surveillance and traffic monitoring, aiding in smoother law enforcement.
4. Compliance with Law
Under Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, all vehicles sold before April 2019 are now required to upgrade to HSRPs. Non-compliance can lead to fines and other legal repercussions.
Key Features of HSRP
HSRPs are not just any number plates. Their specialized features include:
Chromium-based hologram: This is hot-stamped on the plate and bears the Ashoka Chakra, making duplication difficult.
Laser-etched permanent identification number: Unique to each plate.
Snap-locks: Once installed, these locks cannot be removed without damaging the plate, thereby preventing theft or tampering.
Reflective sheeting: Enhances visibility at night.
Who Needs to Register for HSRP?
The requirement for HSRP registration applies to:
All vehicles sold before April 2019: These vehicles were initially registered with older, less secure number plates.
New vehicles: All new vehicles come pre-fitted with HSRPs by the manufacturer or dealer as per MoRTH guidelines.
Re-registered vehicles: Vehicles changing state or ownership must also be fitted with HSRPs.
HSRP Registration Process
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Many states have dedicated portals for HSRP registration. For instance, vehicle owners in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh can visit https://bookmyhsrp.com.
Step 2: Enter Vehicle Details
You will be prompted to enter key information such as:
Vehicle Registration Number
Chassis Number
Engine Number
Owner’s Name and Contact Details
Step 3: Select Appointment Location and Time
Choose the nearest authorized fitment center and a convenient date and time for plate installation.
Step 4: Payment
Make an online payment for the plate. The cost varies by vehicle type but typically ranges from ₹400 to ₹1100.
Step 5: Visit the Fitment Center
On the scheduled date, visit the chosen center to have the plate installed. Ensure you carry the vehicle’s original registration certificate (RC) and a valid ID proof.
Step 6: Receive Installation Certificate
Once installed, the fitment center will issue a certificate confirming the plate’s installation, which you should keep for your records.
Documents Required for HSRP Registration
Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
Owner’s Aadhaar Card or any government-issued ID
Vehicle details (chassis and engine numbers)
Payment confirmation receipt (if paid online)
Costs Involved
HSRP charges are determined by the type and category of the vehicle:
Two-wheelers: ₹400–₹500
Four-wheelers (private): ₹700–₹1100
Commercial vehicles: May have higher fees depending on the vehicle's size and type
Note: Some portals may charge additional service fees.
Penalties for Not Registering HSRP
Failing to install an HSRP can attract hefty penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act. Fines can range from ₹5000 to ₹10,000 and may also include the suspension of the vehicle's registration or the copyright.
Traffic police in several states are actively checking vehicles for compliance, especially in metropolitan areas like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
HSRP vs. Old Number Plates
| Feature | Old Number Plates | High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Plastic or aluminum | Aluminum only |
| Security Features | None | Hologram, laser code, snap-lock |
| Tamper-proof | No | Yes |
| Standardized across India | No | Yes |
| Legal Compliance | Not compliant anymore | Fully compliant |
States Implementing Strict HSRP Rules
Several Indian states have issued deadlines for mandatory HSRP registration. Some notable examples include:
Delhi: Deadline-driven implementation with penalties post-deadline.
Uttar Pradesh: Active enforcement with online and offline registration available.
Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Haryana: Issued advisories and started penalizing non-compliant vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is HSRP mandatory for all vehicles?
Yes, as per MoRTH, it is mandatory for all vehicles to have HSRPs, including those registered before April 2019.
Can I install an HSRP by myself?
No, HSRPs must be installed at authorized centers using special snap-locks to maintain their tamper-proof nature.
What if I lose my HSRP?
In case of damage or loss, you must apply for a duplicate HSRP through the official portal and provide relevant documents and FIR if required.
Are color-coded stickers also required?
Yes, along with the HSRP, color-coded fuel stickers are mandatory for vehicles in some states, especially for petrol, diesel, CNG, and electric vehicles.
Conclusion
HSRP registration is not just a legal formality but a crucial step towards improving road safety and law enforcement in India. As the government continues to push for smarter traffic management systems, HSRPs will play a key role in vehicle tracking and identification. Vehicle owners are encouraged to comply with the guidelines promptly to avoid penalties and contribute to a safer, more organized traffic ecosystem.