Complete Guide to Red Number Plates in India

What Is a Red Number Plate in India?

In India, the number plate of a vehicle usually reflects its unique alphanumeric registration number with state code, RTO code and vehicle series. However, not every number plate is of the same kind. The red number plate meaning is that the car has a temporary registration number.

It is usually assigned to brand new cars, which are waiting to obtain permanent registration from the RTO. In simple words, a red number plate with white letters is the temporary registration of a vehicle. They are valid for a short period of time, usually a month.

Temporary number plates are different from the usual white, yellow and green plates you see on cars on the road, which display the registration numbers. Here is a detailed distinction:

Who Is Eligible to Use a Red Number Plate?

The temporary registration number on a red colour number plate is mainly assigned to new vehicles awaiting the issuance of their permanent registration. Until it is issued, owners of the new car can use their vehicle with the temporary registration for up to 30 days.

Rules and Regulations for Red Number Plates

As a new car purchaser, you must be familiar with the specific rules and regulations associated with red number plates for four-wheelers. Here’s what you should know:

1. The red number plate has a fixed validity. It is illegal to drive with it after it has expired.
2. The red license plate is for temporary registration. In the meantime, car owners are required to apply and complete the paperwork for permanent vehicle registration.
3. The temporary registration or red number plate with white letters is not transferable to another vehicle.
4. The car owner may be subjected to hefty fines and penalties if they fail to convert the temporary registration plates into the permanent ones within the stipulated timeframe.

Validity Period of a Red Number Plate

The validity of the car red number plate, or the temporary registration, is fixed. It is valid up to 30 days from the date of issue. After the allotted period is over, the red number plate expires. So, within this timeframe, you must apply for and obtain the permanent registration for your vehicle.

Restrictions and Limitations of Red Number Plates

Here are some limitations and restrictions of the vehicle red number plate that you must be aware of:

Fines for misuse

Using the red number plate in cars for purposes other than its intended usage can lead to hefty fines and penalties.

Usage restriction

You can not use the car with a red license plate for commercial purposes. It is primarily issued so that car owners can bring the vehicle to their home and/or the RTO from the dealership.

Other documents

Even with the red colour number plate, you need to have proper vehicle documents, such as valid car insurance.

Importance of Car Insurance for Red Number Plate Vehicles

Car insurance plays a significant role for vehicles. In India, it is mandatory for cars to have a valid car insurance with third-party liability cover at a minimum. As for new vehicles, the law requires them to be sold with a mandatory long-term, 3-year third-party liability car insurance.

The certificate of car insurance is also mandatory if you have a red number plate car awaiting permanent registration. Without insurance, you are not allowed to drive a car on the road.

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Conclusion

The vehicle red number plate is its temporary registration. It signifies that the vehicle is new and awaiting its permanent registration. It is valid for only 30 days, within which it must be converted into and replaced with the permanent registration HSRPs. To ensure the experience with your new vehicle and its red number plate goes smoothly, knowing its rules, validity period and limitations is essential.

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