Plate specifications — informational guide
Important: This page provides general information about High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) features and commonly used plate dimensions referenced in publicly available guidance. Vehicle Plate Solutions is an independent private supplier and not a government entity. Final registration decisions, approvals, and any official certification are the responsibility of the relevant Regional Transport Office (RTO) or the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MORTH).
What is an HSRP?
HSRP stands for High Security Registration Plate — a tamper-resistant, retro-reflective vehicle registration plate with security features designed to reduce fraud and theft. Official technical details are defined in AIS-159 and related ministry publications; consult the official documents and your local RTO for the authoritative specification.
Common HSRP features
- Substrate & film: Aluminium substrate with retroreflective film (hot-stamped or printed characters).
- Hologram / security mark: Anti-tamper hologram or chromium-based security mark affixed to the plate.
- Laser-etched unique code: Permanent laser-etched serial or identifier traceable to the manufacturer/test agency.
- Embossed characters: Raised (embossed) registration characters for legibility and durability.
- Snap-lock / non-reusable fastener: Non-reusable locking mechanism for rear plates to indicate tampering (implementation varies by region).
- Retroreflective markings: Markings and inscriptions placed per the official specification.
Typical plate dimensions
The table below lists commonly used plate sizes appearing in guidance and state documents. These are for general informational purposes only — always confirm exact permitted dimensions with AIS-159 / MORTH and your local RTO.
| Vehicle type | Typical plate size (mm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light Motor Vehicle (Car) — Rear & Front | 500 × 120 | Common standard for many cars (rear & front). Some vehicles have permitted exceptions. |
| Two-wheeler — Rear | 200 × 100 | Standard rear plate for motorcycles/scooters. Front plate (if used) often 100 × 70. |
| Two-wheeler — Front (if required) | 100 × 70 | Used in some states/vehicle types; many two-wheelers only require rear plates. |
| Heavy / Medium Commercial Vehicles | 340 × 200 or 500 × 120 | Sizes depend on vehicle category and commercial vehicle rules. |
| Tractor / Trailer | Varies (see CMVR / AIS guidance) | Refer to CMVR and AIS documents for exact sizes for agricultural/construction vehicles. |
Note: These sizes are typical and presented for guidance. For exact dimensional and material specifications, consult AIS-159 (HSRP standard), MORTH notifications, and your local RTO.
Character style & font
Official standards specify character height, stroke width, spacing, and margins to ensure legibility. Characters are uppercase English letters (A–Z) and Arabic numerals (0–9). Refer to AIS-159 for exact measurements when precise compliance is required.
Recommended installation SOP (private fitment)
If fitting plates for customers, consider a documented SOP to reduce errors and for traceability:
- Verify the registration number and owner identity; record RC details only when required and explain storage in your privacy policy.
- Confirm plate size & type per vehicle category.
- For rear plates, use the specified non-reusable locking where applicable; for two-wheelers, mount as per state rules.
- Capture installation photos (plate close-up and mounted plate) and record the laser-etched code against the order.
- Provide a GST-compliant invoice and unique Order ID to the customer; retain order records for audits/queries.
Official sources & further reading
- Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MORTH)
- MORTH appendices / CMVR documents
- AIS-159 (HSRP) standard — ARAI / AIS
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