Color-coded sticker : Owning a car in India is not just about driving—it’s about staying updated with evolving traffic norms. One such crucial update is the mandatory High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) and Color-Coded Fuel Sticker. If your vehicle doesn’t have these, you could be slapped with a hefty ₹5,000 fine on the spot. Here’s what every car owner must know to avoid this penalty.
What Is HSRP and the Color-Coded Sticker?
The High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) is a tamper-proof number plate made of aluminum and comes with a unique registration number, a hologram, and a chromium-based Ashoka Chakra. The color-coded sticker, placed on the windshield, indicates the type of fuel used in the vehicle—petrol, diesel, CNG, or electric.
These features are not just about aesthetics or identification—they are a national security and emission regulation measure introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Why Are HSRPs and Stickers Mandatory?
- To prevent theft and duplication of registration numbers.
- To easily identify fuel types in compliance with emission norms.
- To ensure uniform vehicle identification across all states.
- To streamline enforcement by traffic police and emission authorities.
The rule applies to all vehicles sold before April 2019. For newer vehicles, these plates are usually already installed by manufacturers.
What Happens If You Don’t Have It?
According to the Motor Vehicles Act, not having an HSRP or the fuel sticker is a traffic violation. Here’s what you risk:
- Instant challan or fine up to ₹5,000
- Vehicle seizure in some extreme enforcement zones
- Delays and fines during pollution checks
- Trouble during inter-state travel or RTO inspection
Penalties for Non-Compliance
| Offense | Fine (₹) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| No HSRP on front or rear | 5,000 | Applies to both old and new vehicles |
| Missing color-coded fuel sticker | 5,000 | Mandatory for easy fuel-type identification |
| Duplicate or tampered number plate | 5,000 | Can also lead to criminal proceedings |
| Repeated offense | 10,000 | With possibility of license suspension |
| Obstructing enforcement or non-payment | Up to 10,000 | Legal action may be taken |
| Inter-state travel without HSRP | Variable | May attract different fines in other states |
| Refusal to replace old plate | 5,000 | HSRP is now a national compliance requirement |
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How to Apply for HSRP and Fuel Sticker?
You can apply online through authorized government portals or by visiting authorized car dealerships. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Visit the official HSRP portal of your state or vehicle brand.
- Fill in the required details such as registration number, chassis number, engine number, and owner details.
- Select your preferred dealership or fitment center.
- Pay the application fee (usually between ₹250 – ₹600).
- Choose an appointment slot and visit the center for installation.
Note: The fuel sticker is usually included in the HSRP package and placed on the top-left corner of your windshield.
Typical Costs and Turnaround Time
| Vehicle Type | HSRP Cost (₹) | Fuel Sticker Included | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two-Wheeler | 250 – 300 | Yes | 3 – 5 days |
| Four-Wheeler (Car) | 400 – 600 | Yes | 3 – 7 days |
| Commercial Vehicle | 500 – 700 | Yes | 4 – 7 days |
| SUV or MUV | 500 – 650 | Yes | 4 – 6 days |
| Luxury Vehicle | 600 – 750 | Yes | 5 – 7 days |
| CNG Vehicle | Same as above | Yes (CNG Color) | 4 – 6 days |
| Electric Vehicle | 400 – 600 | Yes (Green Sticker) | 3 – 5 days |
Where to Check HSRP Status or Track Your Application?
After applying, you can visit the official HSRP portal using your vehicle registration number to:
- Track your appointment date
- Check dispatch or delivery status
- Download the invoice or appointment slip
Some state portals also allow tracking via SMS or email notification.
Are There Any Exemptions?
As of now, no category is fully exempted from the HSRP and sticker rule. However, temporary exemptions or grace periods may be granted:
- Vehicles registered in rural areas without service centers
- Emergency vehicles during active duty (ambulances, police, etc.)
- State government vehicles during election periods
Always check the latest notification from your State Transport Department for updates.
What Are the Color Codes for Fuel Stickers?
Each sticker has a specific background color and is affixed to the vehicle windshield for easy recognition.
| Fuel Type | Sticker Color | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol | Blue | All petrol engine vehicles |
| Diesel | Orange | Diesel cars and trucks |
| CNG | Light Blue | CNG-only or Bi-fuel cars |
| Electric Vehicle | Green | All EVs |
This system helps authorities quickly identify the fuel type during checks for emission norms or pollution control drives.
If your vehicle does not have a High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) and the color-coded fuel sticker, you are not just violating a rule—you’re risking a ₹5,000 fine or more. The good news is, getting compliant is quick, affordable, and can be done online.
Don’t wait for a traffic cop to remind you. Stay informed, stay compliant, and drive safe.
The rules, costs, and timelines mentioned are based on publicly available data and government announcements as of May 2025. Please check with your local RTO or official HSRP portal for the latest updates.
What is the penalty for not having the required car sticker?
Instant fine of ₹5,000.
What are the consequences of not displaying the specific sticker on your car?
You could face an instant fine of ₹5,000.
What is the significance of the sticker that can result in a fine?
The sticker may indicate compliance with a specific regulation or requirement.
How much is the fine for not having the specified car sticker?
The fine is ₹5,000 for not having the required car sticker.
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