The Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Department (MMVD) has made it mandatory for vehicle owners to replace their old registration plates with high-security registration plates (HSRP). This step is being taken to reduce vehicle-related crimes like theft and counterfeiting. According to the new rule, all vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, must replace their old plates by March 31, 2025, or face fines under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
Vijay Chavhan, RTO (Nagpur Rural), confirmed that a notification was issued on December 4, detailing the requirement for vehicle owners to surrender their old plates during the installation of the new HSRPs. “Any vehicle found with counterfeit plates or failing to meet the deadline will be fined,” Chavhan said. Additionally, services such as ownership transfers and address changes will be denied unless the vehicle’s HSRP has been verified.
In an effort to eliminate the sale of fake HSRPs, police and transport authorities have been instructed to crack down on counterfeit plates. This initiative is in accordance with the Supreme Court’s directives and the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) of 1989, which emphasize the importance of secure registration plates to prevent fraud.
The government has also established fitment charges, with rates set at Rs 450 for two-wheelers and tractors, Rs 500 for three-wheelers, and Rs 745 for passenger cars, light motor, and goods vehicles, excluding GST. Three agencies have been selected to supply and fit the new plates, with zones assigned based on the RTO locations.
The government has urged vehicle owners to schedule appointments early to avoid delays and ensure compliance with the new regulations. Chavhan also confirmed that agencies will soon open offices to assist with the HSRP replacement process.
SOPs for implementing HSRP
* Mandatory HSRP installation: All motor vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, must be fitted with HSRPs by March 31, 2025.
* Authorized agencies: The state is divided into three zones, each with an assigned implementing agency responsible for manufacturing, supply, and fitment of HSRPs.
* Online booking portal: Vehicle owners must book HSRP installation appointments online through portals managed by the authorized agencies. Walk-ins are not allowed
* Charges for HSRP installation (excluding GST): Two-wheelers and tractors– 450; Three-wheelers: 500; Light motor vehicles, passenger cars & goods vehicles: 745
* Appointment Rescheduling: Vehicle owners can reschedule their appointment up to 90 days after the first appointment date
* Old plate surrender: Owners must surrender and destroy their old registration plates at the time of HSRP installation
* Verification and documentation: Vehicle details, such as registration number, chassis number, and engine number, must be verified with the VAHAN portal before affixing the HSRP
* Grievance redressal: Authorized HSRP manufacturers must provide a grievance redressal mechanism for vehicle owners to report issues or dissatisfaction with the HSRP installation process
* Enforcement and penalties: After March 31, 2025, vehicles without HSRPs will face penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and services like ownership transfer and address changes will be denied
* Monitoring and inspection: Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) will inspect and approve HSRP fitment centres to ensure compliance with safety and operational guidelines