Nagpur: The Maharashtra Government has extended the deadline for installing High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) on vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, till June 30, 2026, giving lakhs of vehicle owners additional time to comply with the mandatory security measure.
The decision comes after the state reviewed the pace of HSRP installation across Maharashtra and found that a large number of older vehicles are yet to complete the process. Earlier, the deadline for compliance had been fixed as December 31, 2025.
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Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Wednesday said the extension was aimed at avoiding inconvenience to vehicle owners while ensuring wider implementation of the security system. “HSRP is an extremely important mechanism to prevent vehicle theft, fake number plates, and the misuse of vehicles in criminal activities,” Sarnaik added.
“As per the Centre’s guidelines, older vehicles are also required to install HSRP plates. Vehicle owners should make use of the extended deadline and complete the process in time,” the minister further said.
HSRPs are aluminium number plates fitted with security features such as a chromium-based hologram, laser-etched serial number, and non-removable snap locks designed to prevent tampering and duplication. The system was introduced nationwide to standardise vehicle identification and improve traceability during enforcement and investigations.
Under the revised timeline, vehicle owners must install the plates or at least register for an appointment before June 30, 2026. The transport department has directed vehicle owners to book appointments only through the official HSRP portal.
From July 1, 2026, transport authorities will launch special road inspection drives to check compliance. Officials said vehicles found without HSRP plates or proof of appointment booking may face action under the Motor Vehicles Act, including a compounding fee of up to Rs 1,000.
The move is expected to affect a significant number of vehicle owners across Maharashtra, particularly in Nagpur, where older two-wheelers, autorickshaws, taxis, and private cars form a major share of road traffic.
While the government has extended the deadline, questions remain over implementation capacity and appointment availability, as many vehicle owners have earlier reported delays in securing installation slots.
Officials have also cautioned citizens against approaching unauthorised agents or middlemen for HSRP installation, urging them to rely only on approved government channels.
The state government said the measure forms part of a broader push to strengthen vehicle security, streamline identification systems, and curb the use of fake registration plates across Maharashtra.
