Any kind of vehicle ownership for an average Indian middle-class individual or family is a moment of pride and joy. The most crucial detail on a vehicle be it a two-wheeler, three-wheeler, car or commercial vehicle is its registration number. The registration number becomes a vehicle’s de facto identity which is attached to its owner’s name.
That’s why it needs to be displayed at each and every vehicle plying on the road both at the front and the back. But seldom on any platform do we talk about the registration plates that carry these numbers. A combination of alpha numeric characters imprinted on the rectangular plates hold much more significance to a vehicle than a common man would otherwise think.
What is HSRP?
Called High-Security Registration Plates (HSRPs), these specialized number plates, embedded with multiple layers of security, have transformed the way vehicles are identified, monitored, and protected across the country. Initially introduced in 2001, HSRPs gained nationwide adoption after a 2019 government directive requiring installation at the point of sale for new vehicles.
HSRPs are equipped with advanced security features and play a crucial role in modern Intelligent Traffic Management Systems (ITMS), helping law enforcement in efficient vehicle monitoring. Older vehicles must retroactively comply via authorized state portals, SIAM, or certified dealers. The plates are made of 1mm thick aluminium with retro-reflective coating and are embedded with a chromium-based hologram, 12-digit laser-etched PIN, and the ‘IND’ national identifier.
Detecting fake HSRPs
It has been observed that several unauthorized and fraudulent websites have been created by malicious entities, closely mimicking the design and interface of official HSRP platforms. These fake websites often appear legitimate in search results, making it easy for unsuspecting users to fall victim.
Such platforms typically collect sensitive personal information, charge excessive or hidden fees, do not provide payment receipts, and may display fake QR codes during the order process. In many cases, payments are accepted without delivering any service or confirmation.
“Genuine HSRPs are tamper-proof, traceable, and fully integrated with national enforcement systems. Fake or unauthorized plates may look similar but fail to offer the same level of security, and in many cases, expose the owner to legal and safety risks. We strongly encourage all vehicle owners to verify and order their HSRPs only through government-approved platforms and licensed vendors to ensure compliance and peace of mind,” said Kartick V Nagpal, President of Rosmerta Safety Systems.
“Vehicle owners are advised to check and confirm the current process for obtaining High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) with their respective State Transport Authorities or can also contact their local Regional Transport Offices. To avoid fraud, customers should only use official platforms or can visit authorized dealers requesting for HSRP,” said Mahesh Malhotra, secretary of the Association of Registration Plate Manufacturers of India (ARPMI)
Important Advisory for Vehicle Owners:
To avoid fraud:
- Always verify the process for obtaining HSRPs with your State Transport Department or Regional Transport Office (RTO).
- Use only official portals or visit authorized dealers for HSRP bookings.
- Stay alert and confirm the authenticity of any website or service provider before proceeding with payment or sharing personal details.
Ways to apply for HSRP
The process for obtaining High-Security Registration Plates (HSRPs) for existing vehicles varies by state and is implemented through two primary models: Tender-Based Model and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Model.
1. State Transport Department Portals (Tender-Based Model):
In this model, State Governments appoint specific HSRP vendors through a tender process to manage the issuance and affixation of HSRPs. This system is followed in states such as:
- Punjab
- Jammu & Kashmir
- Maharashtra
- Chhattisgarh
- North-Eastern States (NER)
Vehicle owners in these regions must apply through their respective State Transport Department portals as per the local guidelines.
2. SIAM Portal (OEM Model):
States following the OEM model authorize vehicle manufacturers and their dealers to issue HSRPs through OEM-authorized vendors. The process is managed via the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) official website.
- Customers can visit the SIAM website to place an order.
- The portal redirects users to the official website of the OEM-authorized HSRP manufacturer.
- Upon successful verification of vehicle data through the VAHAN database, the HSRP is processed and issued.
3. Authorized Automobile Dealers:
This method is similar to the SIAM model. Vehicle owners can directly approach an authorized automobile dealer holding a valid trade certificate to request an HSRP.
- The dealer coordinates with an OEM-authorized HSRP manufacturer to issue and affix the plate.
- This route is convenient for those preferring offline interaction or assistance with the process.
