Vehicle number plates in India: Decoding the colours on registration plates and their meanings

In India, vehicle registration plates, commonly known as number plates, come in various colours, each representing different categories of vehicles and their specific purposes. As you travel across the country, you’ll likely notice a range of number plates, from the standard white and yellow to the increasingly common green plates for electric vehicles.

Understanding the significance of these colours is essential for grasping the diverse vehicle classifications in India. Here is a detailed guide to the different types of registration plates allotted in India and their respective meanings.

White number plates are the most common type in India and are typically assigned to non-commercial, privately owned vehicles. The alphanumeric characters on these plates include the state code, district code, and a unique registration number for the vehicle. These plates signify that the vehicle is for personal use only and cannot be used for commercial activities, such as carrying passengers or goods for hire.

Yellow number plates with black text are reserved for commercial vehicles, such as taxis, buses, and trucks. Like the white plates, the alphanumeric sequence indicates the vehicle’s registration details, including the state and district of registration. These vehicles are authorised for commercial use, including the transportation of passengers and goods.

Blue number plates are assigned to vehicles used by foreign diplomats, embassies, or consulates functioning in India. Issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, these plates feature white letters and numbers, often accompanied by the logo or emblem of the diplomat’s country. Vehicles with blue plates enjoy certain privileges and are typically exempt from specific local regulations.

Black number plates are reserved for self-drive rental vehicles available for hire. These vehicles are part of the commercial sector, but unlike those with yellow plates, they are not driven by a chauffeur. Black plates are mostly found in urban areas where self-drive rental services are more popular. These vehicles provide a flexible option for individuals who prefer to drive themselves without the long-term commitment of ownership.

With the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) in India, green number plates have become more prevalent. These plates are specifically designated for electric vehicles, regardless of whether they are private or commercial. A green background with white text is used for privately owned EVs, while green plates with yellow text are assigned to commercial electric vehicles. The introduction of green plates aims to promote the use of environmentally friendly transportation options.

Red number plates are temporary and are primarily issued for vehicles that are still in the process of being officially registered. These plates are commonly used for testing, demonstration, or transit purposes, allowing vehicles to be driven on public roads before their permanent registration is complete. Once the registration process is finalised, the red plate is replaced with the appropriate permanent plate colour, depending on the vehicle’s classification.

Vehicles that bear red number plates adorned with the Indian government’s emblem are used by the central or state governments. These plates are typically assigned to vehicles operated by high-ranking officials and dignitaries, providing them with specific privileges, such as access to restricted areas and exemption from certain traffic regulations.

Number plates featuring an upward-pointing arrow are a distinct category reserved for vehicles belonging to the Indian armed forces, including the army, air force, and navy. Issued by the Ministry of Defence, these plates are subject to specific regulations and offer privileges such as exemption from toll charges and access to special lanes or routes. The upward-pointing arrow symbolises the vehicle’s affiliation with the military, signifying its role in national defence.