High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) have become a mandatory requirement for vehicles across India. While this initiative aims to improve vehicle traceability and road safety, many vehicle owners remain confused or misinformed about the HSRP booking process. From cost-related concerns to rumors about eligibility, numerous myths continue to circulate. In this article, we break down the most common misconceptions about HSRP booking and reveal the actual facts to help you make an informed decision.

Myth 1: HSRP Is Only Mandatory for New Vehicles

Many people believe that HSRP is only required for newly purchased vehicles. This is false. According to government guidelines, HSRP is mandatory for all vehicles, regardless of their year of registration. Whether your car is one year old or fifteen, you must have a High Security Registration Plate installed. The initiative aims to bring uniformity and security to all registered vehicles, not just new ones.

Myth 2: You Can Buy HSRP from Any Local Shop

Some vehicle owners assume that HSRPs can be purchased from any roadside plate vendor. In reality, HSRPs can only be booked and fitted through government-authorized dealers or official online portals. This ensures the plates meet national security standards, include tamper-proof features, and are registered in the central database. Unauthorized plates are illegal and may result in penalties or legal action.

Myth 3: HSRP Booking Is a Complicated Process

There is a widespread belief that booking an HSRP is time-consuming and confusing. In fact, the process is quite simple and user-friendly. Most states have official websites where you can book your HSRP by entering your vehicle registration number, chassis number, engine number, and contact details. After payment, you select a nearby fitment center and appointment slot. The actual installation process usually takes only a few minutes.

Myth 4: The Cost of HSRP Is Too High

Another common myth is that HSRP costs are unnecessarily high or arbitrary. The truth is that the pricing for HSRPs is standardized and regulated by the authorities. The cost varies slightly based on vehicle type (two-wheeler, four-wheeler, commercial) but generally ranges between ₹300 to ₹600. This includes the plate, color-coded sticker, and installation. Compared to the safety and compliance benefits, the cost is minimal.

Myth 5: You’ll Be Fined Instantly Without an HSRP

Many drivers worry that if they haven’t installed HSRP yet, they’ll face immediate penalties. While it’s true that enforcement has become stricter, many states are providing grace periods or issuing notices before imposing fines. That said, it’s not worth delaying. Once the deadline in your state has passed, traffic authorities are authorized to issue fines ranging from ₹5,000 or more. Booking your HSRP in time saves you from legal hassles.

Myth 6: The HSRP Will Damage Your Vehicle

Some people fear that installing an HSRP will damage their vehicle’s body or bumper. This is a myth. HSRPs are installed by trained professionals using snap-lock rivets designed specifically for vehicles. The process is non-invasive and doesn’t affect the structural integrity or appearance of your vehicle. For new vehicles, plates are typically fitted during delivery itself at the dealership.

Myth 7: You Can Transfer HSRP from One Vehicle to Another

One major misconception is that you can remove an HSRP from one vehicle and reuse it on another. This is not only incorrect but illegal. HSRPs are designed to be vehicle-specific and once installed, cannot be transferred. Each plate is tied to the unique chassis and engine number of a particular vehicle. Attempting to reuse or relocate the plate may result in a penalty or criminal charges.

Myth 8: The HSRP Sticker Is Optional

Vehicle owners sometimes assume that the color-coded windshield sticker provided with HSRP is optional. In reality, this third registration mark is mandatory and serves a purpose. It helps enforcement agencies quickly identify fuel type and vehicle category. The sticker includes important details like registration number, registering authority, and vehicle class, and is required to be displayed on the top-left of the windshield.

Myth 9: There’s No Way to Track Your HSRP Booking

People often feel anxious about delays or confusion after booking. However, most official HSRP portals allow you to track your booking status using your registration number or mobile number. Updates like appointment confirmation, dispatch of plates, and installation reminders are usually sent via SMS or email. This transparency eliminates guesswork and ensures you stay informed throughout the process.

Myth 10: It’s Okay to Use Old Plates If They’re Legible

This myth is based on the assumption that as long as your old number plate is readable, it’s acceptable to keep using it. However, the HSRP system is not just about visibility; it’s about security, traceability, and standardization. Old plates can be tampered with or replaced without detection, whereas HSRPs offer tamper-proof features and unique identification. Continuing to use old plates after the mandate is non-compliance and carries penalties.

Myth 11: HSRP Is Not Required for Two-Wheelers

A significant number of two-wheeler owners think that HSRPs are only for cars or commercial vehicles. This is incorrect. All vehicle types, including scooters, motorcycles, and mopeds, are required to have HSRPs fitted. The booking and cost structure is slightly different for two-wheelers but the mandate applies equally.

Myth 12: Only the Owner Can Book the HSRP

Many people think that only the registered owner of a vehicle can book the HSRP. While it’s true that the booking requires ownership details, family members or authorized persons can book and get the HSRP installed as long as they have access to the required documents and vehicle information. This makes it easier for busy owners to delegate the process.

Conclusion

High Security Registration Plates are designed to protect vehicle owners, aid law enforcement, and bring uniformity to vehicle registration in India. Misinformation and myths can discourage people from complying or cause unnecessary fear and delay. Understanding the facts behind HSRP booking helps you stay compliant, avoid fines, and contribute to a safer driving environment.

If you’ve been holding off on booking your HSRP because of these myths, now is the time to act. The process is simple, affordable, and more importantly, legally required. Don’t let myths keep you from doing the right thing—get your HSRP booked and fitted today.