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Understanding the RTO Number Plate Format

Posted on by PVC CARD PRINTING
understanding the rto number plate format
23
Mar

Introduction Every vehicle on Indian roads carries a unique number plate that provides essential identification and registration information. Issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO), these number plates follow a standardized format as per the Motor Vehicles Act. Understanding the format helps decode the location, vehicle category, and registration order.

This blog explains the structure and meaning of Indian vehicle number plates, including examples and important details.

What is an RTO Number Plate?

An RTO number plate (vehicle registration number) is a legal identifier assigned to every vehicle during registration. It includes codes that represent the state, RTO office, vehicle type, and registration sequence.

Standard Format of Vehicle Number Plate in India

A typical Indian number plate format looks like:

XX 00 XX 0000

Let’s break it down:

✅ 1. State Code (First Two Letters)

  • Represents the state or union territory where the vehicle is registered.
  • Example: MH for Maharashtra, DL for Delhi, KA for Karnataka.

✅ 2. RTO Code (Next Two Digits)

  • Identifies the specific RTO office within the state.
  • Example: MH 01 = Mumbai RTO, KA 05 = Bangalore South.

✅ 3. Series Code (One or Two Letters)

  • Indicates the registration series to avoid repetition.
  • Usually alphabetical: AB, CD, XY, etc.

✅ 4. Unique Number (Last Four Digits)

  • This is the unique identifier for the vehicle.
  • Range: 0001 to 9999 (custom or fancy numbers may be requested with extra fee).

Example of RTO Number Plate Format

MH 12 DE 1234

  • MH = Maharashtra
  • 12 = Pune RTO
  • DE = Series code
  • 1234 = Vehicle number

Types of Vehicle Number Plates in India

✅ White Plate

  • Private non-commercial vehicles
  • Black text on white background

✅ Yellow Plate

  • Commercial vehicles like taxis, trucks
  • Black text on yellow background

✅ Green Plate

  • Electric vehicles
  • White text for private, yellow text for commercial

✅ Red Plate

  • Temporary registration (valid for one month)
  • White text on red background

✅ Blue Plate

  • Vehicles used by foreign diplomats
  • White text on blue background

✅ Black Plate

  • Self-drive rental vehicles
  • Yellow text on black background

Where Can You Check RTO Details by Number Plate?

You can check vehicle registration details using the Parivahan portal: https://vahan.parivahan.gov.in

Enter the vehicle number to see:

  • Owner’s name (partially masked)
  • Vehicle type
  • RTO location
  • Fitness, insurance, and PUC details

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Conclusion Understanding the RTO number plate format helps decode vehicle origin and type. Each part of the plate has a specific purpose and legal significance. Whether you’re buying a car, checking registration, or customizing your number, knowing the format ensures compliance and clarity on the road.

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