High Security Registration Plates (HSRP): Why They Are Mandatory and How to Book Online
HSRP is a tamper-proof aluminium number plate with a unique laser-etched code, a chromium hologram, and snap-lock rivets that link your vehicle to the national Vahan database. Since April 2019, all new vehicles come with HSRP pre-fitted. Older vehicles must get them installed through authorized portals or face fines.
Quick Info
Fee (Two-Wheeler)
₹400 – ₹600 + taxes
Fee (Four-Wheeler)
₹600 – ₹1,100 + taxes
Colour Sticker
₹100 – ₹150 additional
Why HSRP Is Mandatory
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) mandated HSRP under amendments to Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. The Supreme Court upheld this mandate and directed all states to enforce it. Here is why the government pushed for it:
Prevents vehicle theft
Old-style plates could be easily removed, swapped, or duplicated. HSRP uses snap-lock rivets that destroy the plate if tampered with, making stolen vehicles much harder to disguise.
Stops fake number plates
The laser-etched 10-digit code and chromium hologram are linked to your vehicle in the Vahan database. A roadside shop cannot replicate these features.
Enables automated enforcement
CCTV cameras and ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) systems can read the retro-reflective HSRP accurately, making speed detection and e-challan systems more effective.
National standardization
HSRP ensures every vehicle across India has a uniform plate format, making it easier for police and RTOs to identify vehicles regardless of which state they are from.
Security Features
An HSRP is not just a regular number plate with better material. It has multiple layers of security built in:
| Feature | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Chromium hologram | A hot-stamped Ashoka Chakra hologram that cannot be peeled off or re-applied. Visible on the top-left corner of the plate. |
| Laser-etched code | A unique 10-digit PIN permanently laser-branded into the plate. This code is linked to your engine and chassis number in the Vahan database. |
| Snap-lock rivets | Non-reusable fasteners that break if someone tries to remove the plate. Once fitted, the plate cannot be detached without visible damage. |
| IND inscription | A hot-stamped "IND" marking on the plate, indicating compliance with Indian HSRP standards. |
| Retro-reflective sheeting | The plate surface reflects light back to its source, making the number clearly visible at night and in poor weather for cameras and drivers. |
Buying a used vehicle? Before paying, check for all five features: hologram, laser code, snap-lock rivets, IND marking, and reflective surface. If any are missing or the plate looks like a painted lookalike, the vehicle does not have a genuine HSRP and you will need to get one installed.
How to Book Online
HSRP must be booked through authorized government portals only. The most widely used portal across states is BookMyHSRP. Local shops and roadside vendors cannot provide genuine HSRP plates.
Visit the official HSRP portal
Go to bookmyhsrp.com or your state-specific portal. Some states use separate vendor portals, so check your state transport department website if bookmyhsrp.com does not list your state.
Select your vehicle type
Choose between two-wheeler, four-wheeler, or commercial vehicle. Select whether the vehicle is private or commercial.
Enter vehicle details
Type in your vehicle registration number, chassis number, and engine number. These must match the details on your RC exactly.
Choose a fitment centre
Select an authorized dealership or fitment centre near you. The portal will show available locations in your district.
Book an appointment slot
Pick a date and time slot for installation. The actual fitment takes about 15 minutes.
Pay online and save the receipt
Pay via UPI, net banking, or card. You will receive an SMS and email confirmation with your booking details. Carry this receipt to the fitment centre.
Carry your RC and ID proof. On the day of fitment, bring your vehicle Registration Certificate (original), a government-issued ID, and the booking receipt. The fitment staff will verify these before installing the plates.
Colour-Coded Fuel Stickers
Along with the HSRP, a colour-coded hologram sticker must be affixed on the inside of your windshield (for four-wheelers and three-wheelers). This sticker indicates the fuel type of the vehicle and helps enforcement authorities quickly identify vehicles during pollution restrictions and GRAP enforcement in cities like Delhi-NCR.
Light Blue
Petrol and CNG
Orange
Diesel
Grey
Electric and Hybrid
The sticker contains a chromium-based hologram with the vehicle's registration number, laser-branded PIN, registering authority, and engine and chassis numbers. BS-VI compliant vehicles also have a 1 cm green strip on top of the sticker. You can book the colour sticker separately on bookmyhsrp.com by selecting the "Only Colour Sticker" option if your vehicle already has HSRP fitted.
Electric vehicles get green number plates. EVs do not use the windshield sticker system. Instead, they have a distinct green-coloured number plate with white font for private vehicles and yellow font for commercial vehicles.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Driving without HSRP is a violation under the Motor Vehicles Act. Enforcement has been tightening across states, especially in metro cities.
Fine of ₹5,000 to ₹10,000
Under Section 177 of the MV Act, driving without HSRP in states with active enforcement can attract a fine. The amount varies by state and repeat offences.
Vehicle may be detained
In some states, traffic police can detain your vehicle until you produce proof of HSRP booking. Keep your booking receipt handy if the plates are not yet fitted.
Insurance complications
If your vehicle is involved in an accident and does not have HSRP, it can add complications to your insurance claim process, especially if the vehicle identity is questioned.
Active enforcement in metro cities
Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and other metro cities have active HSRP enforcement drives. Checkpoints scan number plates and flag non-compliant vehicles.
Already booked but not yet fitted? If you have booked your HSRP and are waiting for the fitment appointment, keep the booking receipt in your vehicle. In most states, this receipt protects you from being fined during an enforcement drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
My vehicle was registered after April 2019. Do I need to do anything?
Can I get HSRP from a local number plate shop?
My plate already says "IND" on it. Is that enough?
What if my HSRP gets damaged or stolen?
Do two-wheelers also need the colour-coded fuel sticker?
Book your HSRP now
Visit the official BookMyHSRP portal with your vehicle registration number, chassis number, and engine number to get started.