Different Types of Number Plates in India

Before delving into the types of number plates in India, you must know what a vehicle number plate is. As mentioned, the number plate serves as a unique identifier for every vehicle. It is a plastic or metal plate affixed to both the front and rear of every vehicle in India. It displays a unique combination of letters and numbers, indicating specific information about the vehicle’s registration.

Vehicle number plates are necessary not only for the recognition of vehicles on roads but also for ensuring road safety and law enforcement. The Regional Transport Office, or an RTO, is responsible for issuing and affixing vehicle number plates.

There are several types of number plates in India, each having a unique colour code, format, design and font. These number plates help differentiate different kinds of vehicles, such as private civilian vehicles, commercial vehicles, electric vehicles, military vehicles and self-driven rental vehicles, among others.

Keep reading to learn about the different types of number plates in India one by one:

White Number Plate with Black Letters

A white number plate with black letters is the most common number plate you will see on roads. Such a number plate features a black alphanumeric combination on a white background. It is used for private, non-commercial, civilian vehicles. The format for a white number plate in India typically includes the state code, followed by a unique registration number.

White number plates can be affixed on four-wheeler cars and two-wheelers, and the vehicles bearing these plates cannot be used for commercial purposes, such as transporting goods or carrying passengers. A hefty penalty can be levied if a vehicle with a white number plate is caught being used for commercial purposes.

Yellow Number Plate with Black Letters

A yellow number plate is another common type of number plate in India. It is used for commercial vehicles, including taxis, buses, trucks and other goods and passenger-carrying vehicles. These vehicles are subject to different taxation and regulations compared to private vehicles.

The format for a yellow number plate in India is the same as a white number plate, i.e., the state code followed by a unique registration number. It features a black alphanumeric combination on a yellow background. To drive a vehicle carrying a yellow number plate, you will require a commercial driving licence.

Green Number Plate with White or Yellow Letters

Green number plates feature white or yellow alphanumeric characters on a green background. These plates are specifically used for electric vehicles (EVs).

The introduction of green number plates aims to promote the use of electric vehicles in India, distinguishing them from petrol, diesel, and other fuel-based vehicles. Currently, both private and commercial electric vehicles can use green number plates, with a slight variation in the colour of the alphanumeric characters.

For instance, commercial electric vehicles can use green number plates with yellow letters whereas private electric vehicles can use green number plates with white letters.

Red Number Plate with White or Black Letters

A red number plate in India meaning a number plate with a temporary registration number. These number plates are issued to brand-new vehicles before they are permanently registered and are valid for short durations, during which, the vehicle owner must complete the permanent registration process.

A red number plate helps authorities identify unregistered new vehicles. The format for a red number plate is different from that of other types of number plates, as it features the state code followed by a TC number. The colour of the letters can be white or black.

Blue Number Plate with White Letters

A blue number plate is a unique vehicle registration plate featuring white alphanumeric characters on a sky-blue background. It is attached to vehicles belonging to foreign consulates and embassies, ensuring diplomatic immunity and recognition. The alphanumeric code typically starts with "CC" for the consular corps, "CD" for the diplomatic corps, and “UN” for the United Nations.

So, if you see a vehicle with a blue number plate in India, it means that the vehicle is owned by a foreign diplomat or the head of an international organisation.

Black Number Plates with Yellow Letters

Black number plates with yellow alphanumeric characters are used by self-driven rental vehicles. These vehicles are available for hire without a driver. The black plates help distinguish rental vehicles from regular commercial and private vehicles, subjecting them to different regulations and taxation.

For instance, you do not require a commercial driving licence to drive a vehicle with a black number plate in India. Rental cars hired from Zoomcar or Revv usually feature black number plates with yellow characters. Sometimes, black number plates are also affixed to vehicles used for luxury hotel transport.

Number Plate Having an Upward-Pointing Arrow

Number plates having upward-pointing arrows are exclusive to military vehicles in India. The arrow signifies that the vehicle belongs to the Indian Armed Forces, and the numbers typically indicate the regiment and vehicle number. It helps in the identification and security of military vehicles.

Such number plates have unique formats. They have an upward-pointing arrow (known as the Broad Arrow) as the first or second character followed by the digits indicating the year in which the vehicle was registered. Next is the alphanumeric code, representing the regiment and the rank of the owner, and the registration number of the vehicle.

Vintage Number Plates

Vintage vehicles, typically those older than 50 years, can have specially designated plates. The format and colour may vary, but these plates often feature a unique mark or a special number.

Such number plates help preserve the historical and cultural significance of vintage vehicles, allowing them to be easily recognised. Owners of vintage cars often seek these plates for their unique aesthetic and historical value.

Red Number Plate with India’s Emblem

Red number plates with India's emblem are assigned to official vehicles for the President of India, Vice President of India, Governors of States, Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories and other designated government officials. Such number plates display white alphanumeric characters on a red background, with India's emblem in the centre.

Vehicle number plates in India contain unique combinations of alpha-numeric characters. These characters denote the state and the RTO code with which the vehicle is registered and its registration number. Here is how you can read a number plate:

• The first two characters of the number plate are alphabets, indicating the state where the vehicle is registered. For example, if the first two characters are “MH”, it means that the vehicle is registered in Maharashtra.

• The next two characters of the number plate are numerical, representing the RTO code with which the vehicle is registered. For example, if a vehicle carries a number plate with initials, MH01, it means that it is registered with the South Mumbai RTO.

• Next is a combination of alphanumeric characters which denote the unique registration number of the vehicle. For instance, MH01AB1234.

• Different types of number plates in India are crucial for the following reasons:

• Different types of number plates provide a unique identity to each vehicle, helping authorities track their ownership and use.

• Different plate types help enforce regulations for private, commercial and special-purpose vehicles.

• Proper registration and identification of vehicles enhance road safety and help in crime prevention.

• Different number plates help in the efficient collection of road taxes and compliance with state and central tax regulations.

• Special plates for electric and vintage vehicles support environmental conservation efforts and the preservation of heritage.

• Exclusive plates for military and VVIP vehicles are crucial from a security point of view.

In India, vehicle number plates are more than just identifiers; they serve multiple functions, from regulatory compliance to environmental conservation. Understanding the various types of number plates and their purposes helps in appreciating the complexity and importance of vehicle registration systems.

As a lawful car owner, you must have the right type of number plate on your car and a valid car insurance policy. It ensures the optimum financial security of your vehicle and lets you drive worry-free.

TATA AIG offers customised car insurance plans suited to your precise requirements. Our car insurance plans offer excellent benefits like No Claim Bonus, easy online buying, renewal and claim filing process and a wide network of garages.

With us, you can choose the extent of coverage you want through our budget-friendly third-party insurance, own damage insurance and comprehensive insurance plans.

How can I get a number plate for my car?

You can get a number plate for your car by registering it with the nearest RTO. Usually, the dealer handles these formalities when you purchase a car.

Does the type of number plate impact car insurance premiums?

No. Car insurance premiums are determined based on the car’s Insured Declared Value (IDV), make, model, engine capacity, and geographical location, among other factors.

Can I get multiple number plates for my car?

No. You can drive a car only with a single number plate throughout.