Bike number plates in India – Detailed Guide & Video

Long story short: In India, license plates, commonly called bike number plates or registration plates, are a fundamental component of every motorcycle. They serve many crucial functions, such as vehicle identification, tracking, and enforcing traffic regulations.

The Motor Vehicles Act 1988 states that all vehicles must possess a number plate. Here, we discuss different types of number plates in India, including red, yellow, and white, and their usage.

What is a number plate?

A number plate, also known as a license or registration plate, is a legal identification plate present on the front and rear of a motorcycle or scooter.

Different types of bike number plates in India

In India, different types of number plates serve other purposes, including commercial vehicle number plates, private vehicle number plates like red, white, and yellow, and government vehicle number plates. Specialised plates like diplomatic number plates and electric vehicle registration number plates are among the other types.

1. Standard Number Plates

1. White Number Plate (Private motorcycles)

In India, white number plates indicate private motorcycles. They have black alphanumeric characters on a white background and are exclusively for personal use. This colour scheme helps distinguish private vehicles from those used for business, typically with yellow or other coloured plates. White number plates aid in identifying vehicles, ensuring compliance with transport regulations, and enhancing public safety on the roads.

2. Yellow Number Plates (Transport motorcycles)

The yellow number plate in India is commonly used for commercial motorcycles, such as deliveries or taxis. The plates have black alphanumeric characters on a yellow background and require the driver to have a commercial driving permit.

3. Black Number Plate (Rental motorcycles)

These types of number plates are for self-driven rental motorcycles in India. They feature yellow alphanumeric characters on a black background and do not require the driver to have a commercial driving permit.

4. Green Number Plate (Electric Motorcycles)

In India, Green number plates are designated for electric motorcycles. Private electric motorcycles have white alphanumeric characters on a green background. In contrast, commercial electric motorcycles have yellow alphanumeric characters on a green background.

5. Yellow with Red Plate (Temporary registration Motorcycles)

The Yellow with Red Plate is a temporary registration plate for brand-new motorcycles in India. This number is mainly assigned to motorcycles whose vehicle number is there in the fancy number allocation process.

6. Red with White Plate (Motorcycle Dealers)

The number plate is provided to motorcycle dealers. The dealer must use the vehicle before it is sold.

7. Blue Number Plate (Diplomats)

These number plates are for motorcycles used by foreign diplomats, consulates, and international organisations. They feature white alphanumeric characters on a blue background.

8. Arrow pointing upward plate (Indian Defence)

This type of number plate is authorised by the Indian government for the Indian Army. They usually have a black/green background – the stars in red stand for the Army, sky blue for the Airforce, and Navy blue for the Navy.

2. HSRP (High-Security Registration Plate) Bike Number Plates

High-security Registration Plates (HSRP) are a specialised category of number plates introduced in India with the primary objective of bolstering vehicle security. They also help curb counterfeiting and unauthorised replication of registration plates. HSRP plates are now compulsory for all new vehicles in India. In certain states, they are mandatory for existing vehicles as part of a government-led initiative to standardise and enhance vehicle identification security.

Security features of the HSRP plate

HSRP plates incorporate several security features to prevent counterfeiting, including:

1. A hot-stamped hologram with the words “INDIA” and “CHAKRA” on it.
2. Laser-etched letters and numbers for non-altering.
3. Tamper-resistant snap locks for attaching the plates to the vehicle.
4. Use of retro-reflective material for improved visibility at night.

Format of the HSRP plate

1. State Code: The initial component of the High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) comprises a two-letter state code that denotes the respective state or union territory. For instance, “DL” represents Delhi, “MH” stands for Maharashtra, and “KA” signifies Karnataka.

2. Unique Identification Number (UIN): After the state code, a unique identification number (UIN) is there for each HSRP, which is specific to the vehicle and is distinctive.

3. Security Hologram: The HSRP plate is typically adorned with a chromium-based hot-stamped hologram on the left-hand side (top corner) of the plate, which is one of the security features aimed at preventing counterfeiting.

4. Ashoka Chakra Symbol: The Ashoka Chakra symbol, inspired by the Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath, is frequently on the HSRP plate. It is a circular symbol with 24 spokes and is a prominent feature of the Indian national flag.

5. IND Font: The letters and numbers on HSRP plates are in the Indian Number Plate (IND) typeface, a standard font for number plates in India.

6. Retro-Reflective material: HSRP plates contain retro-reflective material, which enhances visibility at night when light falls on the plate. This feature is crucial for road safety.

7. Snap Lock: HSRP plates have a unique snap lock mechanism, making it arduous to remove or replace the plate without causing damage.

3. Bharat Series Number Plates (BH Series)

The Bharat Series (BH) number plates simplify vehicle registration for individuals with transferable jobs. These plates are valid nationwide, eliminating the need for re-registration when moving between states.

Key Features of BH Series Plates

1. Nationwide Validity: The BH number plate is valid across all states and union territories in India, removing the need for re-registration when relocating.
2. Simplified Registration Process: The BH series streamlines the vehicle registration process, saving time and effort for vehicle owners.
3. Standardised Format: The registration number format includes the year of registration (YY), followed by ‘BH’, a 4-digit number, and two alphabets indicating the vehicle category.
4. Road Tax: Road tax for BH series vehicles is valid for 14 years and can be paid online. The tax is charged for two years or multiples thereof.
5. Improved Identification: The BH series number plate aids in the identification of vehicle owners in case of theft or accidents.

What are the specific steps to obtain a High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) for a motorcycle in India?

Here’s a concise, step-by-step guide to applying for a High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) for your motorcycle in India:

1. Determine Eligibility

All vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, must retrofit HSRP and colour-coded sticker; newer vehicles typically come fitted from the factory. This applies to two-wheelers, cars, commercial vehicles, etc.

2. Access the Official Booking Portal

Depending on your state, you may have a dedicated HSRP site. Common portals include:

1. National (SIAM): http://www.siam.in → “Book HSRP”
2. Rosmerta Safety Systems (used by many states): https://bookmyhsrp.com/Index.aspx
3. State-specific portals: (e.g. Telangana, Maharashtra) linked via Parivahan’s “HSRP” section.

3. Enter Vehicle & Owner Details

You will be prompted to:

1. Vehicle Registration Number
2. Chassis Number (last 5 digits in some portals)
3. Engine Number (last 5 digits)
4. Owner Name, Mobile Number, Email, Address
5. Vehicle Class (“Non-transport” for private bikes), Fuel Type

4. Verify via OTP

After submission, an OTP is sent to your registered mobile. Enter it to authenticate and proceed.

5. Choose Fitment Option

1. Dealer/Fitment Centre Appointment: Visit on a date/time.
2. Home Delivery & Fitment: (Extra charge ~₹125–250 for two-wheelers) – someone must be at the address.

6. Make Payment

Fees vary by state and provider, but two-wheelers typically range from ₹400 to ₹600 (excluding GST). Payment modes include UPI, debit/credit cards, and net banking. After payment, download or print the receipt.

7. Receive Booking Confirmation

You’ll get an SMS/email with:

1. Order/Application Number
2. Appointment slot or delivery schedule
3. Fitment centre address (if applicable)

8. Affixation of HSRP & Sticker

On the scheduled date (or at home), present:

1. Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
2. Payment receipt
3. Photo ID (Aadhaar, driving licence)
4. The motorcycle itself

An authorised technician will install:

1. Front and rear HSRP with tamper-proof snap-locks
2. Colour-coded sticker (indicating fuel type)
3. Laser-etched 10-digit PIN and hologram

9. Verify Security Features

Ensure the plates bear the following:

1. Laser-etched permanent number matching your RC
2. Hologram of the emblem
3. Snap-lock system (cannot be removed without destruction)
4. Colour-coded sticker (for petrol/diesel/CNG two-wheelers)

10. Track Your Application

Use the portal’s “Track Order” feature with your application number (or vehicle number) to see status updates from “Pending” → “Manufactured” → “Dispatched/Fitment Done.”

Driving without a compliant HSRP after the prescribed deadline can incur fines of ₹5,000–₹10,000 under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
Following these steps ensures your motorcycle meets the statutory requirements and is protected against plate theft and tampering.

FAQ related to bike number plates in India

1. What are the prohibited modifications in number plates?

Bike number plates must not have any graphics or explanatory text. Unauthorised modifications, such as changes in fonts or colours, are prohibited and can result in fines ranging from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,000.

2. Is the HSRP plate mandatory on bikes in India?

All new motorcycles now come with HSRP number plates as standard when bought from the showroom, and dealers are responsible for them. Vehicle manufacturers fix plates that cannot be removed or reused on the front and back of the vehicle before it is delivered to the dealers. So, HSRP is mandatory for new bikes, but it is not compulsory for older motorcycles.

3. Can I change the bike number plate?

No, HSRP bike number plates cannot be changed. If they are damaged, they must be replaced by either vehicle dealers or authorised authorities like the local RTO. If they are non-HSRP number plates, they must be changed to HSRP plates on your motorcycle. But this is not mandatory.

4. Can I change the bike registration number?

No, once assigned for a bike, the registration number is permanent. But if you are moving to a different state or union territory, you can apply for a new registration number. This typically involves surrendering old number plates and using new ones through the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in your new location.

5. Can we ride a bike without a number plate?

No, As per the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, it is obligatory for all motor vehicles, including motorcycles, to possess a number plate both at the front and the rear of the bike in India.

6. Can we use a new bike without a number plate?

No, all new bikes come from showrooms or dealers with HSRP plates pre-installed, and it is illegal to remove them and ride them on the roads.

7. Can you drive a new bike without a number plate?

No, all the new bikes come from showrooms or dealers with HSRP plates pre-installed. Removing the number plate and riding a motorcycle on the roads is illegal.

8. Can we track bike location by number plate?

No, we cannot track the motorcycle’s live location. However, visiting the official VAHAN website can still get the bike and vehicle owner’s details. The VAHAN database includes information from RTOs and DTOs. Therefore, you can search for the details from any state or Union Territories (UT).

9. How long does it take to get a number plate for a new bike?

There is no separate time to get the number plate; as of now, the HSRP plate comes with your new motorcycle in your showroom. Please note that after the initial registration paperwork for your bike is complete, the number plate is available on your bike.

10. When will I get the number plate on the bike after registration?

The HSRP plate comes pre-fitted with your new motorcycle in your showroom. Please note that after the initial registration paperwork for your bike is complete, the number plate is available on your bike.

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1. Two Wheeler License in India: Full guide to types & process
2. Different types of bike clutch explained
3. Things to know while buying second hand motorcycle
4. Everything you need to know about motorcycle disc brake
5. Motorcycle RC book in India: Exploring Book vs Digital

Conclusion

Throughout this article, we have discussed number plates, white number plates, yellow number plates etc., rules, HSRP plates, etc., in-depth, and common doubts about number plates. If you have any other doubts or queries, email us at bikeleague2017@gmail.com. You can also share your doubts or opinions in the comments section below. We are always eager to help and assist you. Also, here are several social media platforms of Bikeleague India to raise your suspicions.