Karnataka makes new number plates mandatory for all vehicles, to start issuing challan from this date

The Karnataka transport department has announced that it will be mandatory for all vehicles registered prior to April 1, 2019 to have high-security registration plates (HSRP) from November 17. As per a TOI report, the deparment has issues an official notification for the same on August 17.

The Failure to adhere to the November 17 deadline will result in penal action against vehicle owners. The fines for non-compliance are set between Rs 500 and Rs 1,000, according to the notification.

High-security registration plates (HSRPs) have unique features, including a permanent identification number and a chromium-based hologram. These attributes make tampering with HSRPs virtually impossible, ensuring the integrity of the registration plates. A representative from the transport department told TOI that the move is aimed at standardizing registration plates across all vehicles.


The transport department's estimate reveals that a substantial number of vehicles, approximately 1.75 crore to 2 crore, were registered in the state before April 1, 2019. As of that date, the installation of HSRPs had been mandated for all newly manufactured vehicles. Even for older vehicles, authorized HSRP manufacturers will be responsible for supplying the plates. Owners of pre-existing vehicles can place orders for HSRP installation through approved dealers of vehicle manufacturers.

An official stated, "Vehicle manufacturers engage authorized HSRP suppliers through competitive pricing. The cost for four-wheelers might range from Rs 400 to Rs 500, while two-wheelers could see prices between Rs 250 and Rs 300." This regulation for number plates are already in effect in 12 states.

The primary motivation behind the implementation of HSRPs is to curb vehicle-related crimes and enhance overall road safety. By preventing tampering and counterfeiting of plates, HSRPs aid in the identification of all vehicles on the road. Authorized dealers and manufacturers installing HSRPs will be required to update the laser coding on the Vahan portal. However, vehicles lacking registration certificates, fitness certificates (for transport vehicles), or those with overdue road tax will not be eligible for HSRP installation.