HSRP Deadline Date In Maharashtra: Check Last Date To Fix High Security Number Plate

In Maharashtra, over two crore vehicles registered before April 2019 must have High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) installed within four months to avoid penalties.

When Is The Last Date For Installing HSRP Number Plate?

The Maharashtra Transport Commissioner's Office has set a deadline of March 31, 2025, for this installation. Three agencies have been appointed to manage the task following an extensive tendering process, according to a report in PTI.

The HSRP is crafted from a rare aluminium alloy and features a retro-reflective film with 'India' inscribed for verification. It includes a chromium-based Ashok Chakra hologram, the hot-stamped letters IND in blue, and a unique 10-digit laser-branded serial number, ensuring it is tamper-proof. "It is the responsibility of the vehicle owner to get HSRP and a third registration mark sticker installed by March 31, 2025," the SOPs said.

The task of fitting these plates has been divided among three agencies: Rosmerta Safety Systems Ltd, Real Mazon India Ltd, and FTA HSRP Solutions Pvt Ltd. These agencies will operate across three zones in Maharashtra. Rosmerta will cover Zone 1 with 12 RTO offices, Real Mazon will handle Zone 2 with 16 RTO offices, and FTA will manage Zone 3 with 27 RTO offices.

Despite the guidelines being issued, no specific start date for plate installation was mentioned. Some retired officials from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) have criticised the deadline as unrealistic. They argue that recalibrating e-meters for autos and taxis takes over six months, questioning how three agencies can fit HSRPs on more than two crore vehicles in under four months.

Costs and Compliance

The cost of installing HSRPs varies: Rs 450 for two-wheelers and tractors, Rs 500 for three-wheelers, and Rs 745 for four-wheelers like cars and trucks, excluding GST. Vehicle owners must book appointments at least two days ahead for installation. Agencies are tasked with having plates ready by then.

As per Rule 50 of the Motor Vehicles Act, HSRPs are required on both front and rear sides of vehicles along with a third registration mark sticker on the windscreen. For new vehicles registered after April 1, 2019, manufacturers are responsible for fitting these plates.

Technological Integration

Each agency must establish embossing and installation centres based on vehicle numbers in their zones. They are also required to develop software or applications for scheduling appointments, processing payments, and handling grievances. After installation, agencies must update details like the unique laser number (at least ten digits), vehicle registration number, and photos through a web-based application.

In August 2023, tenders were invited by the Maharashtra government to fit HSRPs on over two crore vehicles registered before April 1, 2019. According to tender documents, about 2.10 crore vehicles were registered between 2008 and 2019 in Maharashtra—comprising approximately 1.62 crore two-wheelers and 33 lakh four-wheelers.

The enforcement authorities have been empowered to impose fines under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act if compliance is not met by March 2025. This initiative aims to reduce vehicle thefts and standardise vehicle identification marks across Maharashtra.