Decoding Number Plates in India: A Complete Guide by the RTO on White, Green, Yellow, Blue, Red Plates, and More

Understanding the Various Types of Number Plates in India

Number plates, also known as vehicle registration plates, are a legal requirement for all vehicles in India. They serve not only as an identifier but also provide information about the vehicle’s purpose and registration details. This article explores the different types of number plates in India, their uses, and significance.

What is a Number Plate?

A number plate is a metal or plastic plate attached to the front and rear of a vehicle, displaying its unique registration number. This alphanumeric code provides specific information such as the state of registration and the type of vehicle.

Types of Number Plates in India

The Regional Transport Office (RTO) is responsible for issuing vehicle number plates. Below are the eight types of number plates in India and their distinct uses:

1. White Number Plate

• Use: Personal vehicles.
• Features: Black letters and numbers on a white background.
• Guideline: Cannot be used for commercial purposes.

2. Green Number Plate

• Use: Electric vehicles (EVs).
• Features:
  • Private EVs: White letters on a green background.
  • Commercial EVs: Yellow letters on a green background.

3. Yellow Number Plate

• Use: Commercial transport vehicles, such as taxis, buses, rickshaws, and trucks.
• Features: Black letters on a yellow background.

4. Blue Number Plate

• Use: Vehicles owned by foreign missions and embassies in India.
• Features: White letters on a blue background.
• Additional Markings: May include abbreviations like CC (Consular Corps), UN (United Nations), or DC (Diplomatic Corps).

5. Red Number Plate

• Use: Temporary registration for brand-new vehicles.
• Features: White letters on a red background.
• Validity: Temporary plates are valid for 30 days.

6. Number Plate with an Upward-Pointing Arrow

• Use: Military vehicles.
• Features: Black letters and numbers on a yellow background, with a prominent upward-pointing arrow.

7. Red Number Plate with India’s Emblem

• Use: Official vehicles of high-ranking government officials, such as the President, Vice President, and Governors.
• Features: White letters on a red background, with the national emblem of India displayed prominently.

Key Components of an Indian Vehicle Number Plate

1. State Code: The first two letters indicate the state where the vehicle is registered (e.g., MH for Maharashtra).
2. RTO Code: The next set of digits represents the Regional Transport Office.
3. Unique Code: An alphanumeric code unique to each vehicle.
4. IND Marking: Includes the international registration code for India (IND).

Special Number Plates in India

Bharat Series (BH) Number Plate

• Purpose: Introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in 2021 to simplify vehicle relocation across states.
• Benefits: Owners of vehicles with BH plates do not need to re-register their vehicle when moving to a different state.

High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP)

• Material: Made of tamper-resistant aluminum.
• Features:
  • A unique laser-etched code beneath the “IND” marking.
  • Includes an Ashoka Chakra hologram for added security.
• Purpose: To prevent counterfeiting and improve vehicle security.

Understanding the types of number plates in India is essential for recognizing a vehicle’s purpose and adhering to legal requirements. Whether it’s for personal use, commercial purposes, or government service, number plates play a vital role in the country’s transportation system.