The Maharashtra government has once again extended the deadline for installing High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) on vehicles registered before April 1, 2019. Initially, vehicle owners were required to comply by March 31, 2025, but the deadline was first pushed to April 30, 2025, and has now been further extended to June 30, 2025, due to slow implementation.

Authorities have observed that a significant number of old vehicles are yet to install the tamper-proof registration plates. " To ensure widespread compliance, the Maharashtra Transport Department has directed all Regional Transport Officers (RTOs) and Deputy RTOs to launch awareness campaigns in their respective jurisdictions" said an official.

In an official letter issued by the Transport Commissioner on March 20, officials concerned were instructed to hold meetings with local vehicle dealers, auto-rickshaw, taxi, bus, and truck associations to spread awareness about the new deadline.

“Vehicle owners are urged to get their HSRP installed before June 30, 2025, to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with road safety regulations,” the letter stated.

HSRPs are tamper-proof number plates embedded with a unique identification number and laser-etched code, which help in vehicle tracking and prevent thefts and other vehicle-related crimes. These plates are mandatory for all vehicles registered before April 1, 2019.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The Maharashtra Transport Department has clarified that only HSRPs from authorized vendors will be valid and updated on the VAHAN portal. Vehicles found using unofficial plates will face a fine of Rs 1,000 under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

How to Apply for HSRP

To install HSRP, vehicle owners must book an appointment online through the Maharashtra Transport Department’s official website (www.transport.maharashtra.gov.in) and follow these steps:

Click on the HSRP Online Booking link.

Select the Regional Transport Office (RTO) code (first four digits of the vehicle's registration number).

Submit details and proceed to the authorized HSRP vendor’s website.

Enter vehicle and mobile details registered on the VAHAN portal.

Choose a fitment center, date, and time as per convenience.

Make the payment online (no cash transactions allowed).

Visit the HSRP fitment center on the scheduled date to get the plates affixed.