Why do different number plates have different colours? 30^th March 2023

Have you ever been stuck in traffic without recourse to pass your time? Most of the Indian population has experienced the same due to the ever-increasing number of cars on roads, poor driving etiquette, and ill-maintained roads. In such situations, looking around often helps find temporary things of interest.

In such situations, even mundane things can catch your eye. Have you noticed that some vehicles have different coloured number plates? However, if you have wondered why some vehicles have other coloured number plates and their significance, read on.

Understanding the layout of number plates
In FY 2019, India had 295 million registered vehicles. With a CAGR of 10% between 2007 and 2019, it is safe to assume that the pace of growth of registration has sustained, if not grown. Legal mandates have made it compulsory to buy motor insurance online and getting a vehicle registration number even before your car hits the road. To adhere to the process, knowing the layout of number plates is essential.
● The first two letters indicate the Union Territory or State where the vehicle is registered
● The following two digits denote the district RTO's sequential number
● The next section of up to 2 digits or letters reflects the series of numbers presently being allotted
● The last four digits are your car's unique registration number

You can find IND lasered under the Ashok Chakra emblem on the left. Underneath the number is a unique pin code for the number plate. The text is usually in black or white, depending on the plate's colour. This is the general format commonly used until the introduction of the BH series number plates.

Different number plate types and their meaning

1. White
This is the most prevalent type of number plate. You will be allotted a white number plate if you purchase a car for personal commute purposes. The numbers are lasered in black.

2. Yellow
Another common number plate colour is yellow, with the registration number etched in black. This indicates a commercial vehicle that may transport goods or ferry passengers. The regular documents required to be carried by drivers include motor insurance papers, a driver's licence, and a PUC certificate. Additionally, commercial drivers must have a permit that states their eligibility to carry out the same.

3. Green
The emergence of green number plates is a sign of shifting toward sustainability. These are assigned to electric vehicles of all kinds- two-wheelers, cars, buses, etc. The registration number is etched in white on these number plates. Unlike the distinction mentioned above regarding purpose, all-electric vehicles have green number plates irrespective of use.

4. Black
A black number plate indicates a vehicle has been registered for rental. Drivers do not require a commercial driving licence for these rented commercial vehicles.

5. Blue
Blue number plates with white lettering are rarely seen. They are used to indicate vehicles that belong to a foreign embassy or consulate. These are reserved for foreign diplomats and have unique registration numbers. Instead of the state code shown in the first two letters, the diplomat's country is displayed.

6. Red
Red number plates are for vehicles owned by the President or Governors of India. These number plates have a gold emblem of India instead of a registration number.

Vehicle registration is a mandatory process in India. Before you purchase a new vehicle, knowing what type of number plate to apply for is ideal. You may research more to get deeper insights and understand the colour system. Also, buy motor insurance online to keep your car safe from accidents. A comprehensive motor insurance acts as a safety net to avoid venting your pockets if your car demands repair and replacements.

Click HERE to buy motor insurance online.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.