No HSRP, Heavy Fine: Maharashtra’s Strict Enforcement Begins from February 18

Mandatory High-Security Registration Plate enforcement begins in Maharashtra from February 18; non-compliant vehicles face heavy fines and strict checks.

Pune | 13 February, 2026- The Maharashtra transport department has announced a statewide enforcement drive against vehicles operating without High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP), with strict action set to begin from February 18, 2026. After multiple deadline extensions and repeated public advisories, authorities have made it clear that there will be no further relaxation. Vehicle owners who fail to install the mandatory tamper-proof number plates will now face heavy fines and intensified roadside checks across cities including Pune, Mumbai, Nagpur, and other regions.

The HSRP mandate applies to all vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, including two-wheelers, private cars, commercial vehicles, and transport fleets. These high-security plates are embedded with a chromium-based hologram, laser-etched serial numbers, and a non-removable snap lock system designed to prevent tampering and duplication. The initiative aims to strengthen vehicle identification, curb theft, prevent the circulation of fake number plates, and enhance overall road safety and surveillance enforcement.

Despite the rule being introduced well in advance, compliance across Maharashtra remains significantly low. Officials estimate that lakhs of vehicles across major urban centres are still operating without HSRP. In Pune alone, a large percentage of eligible vehicles have yet to complete installation. Statewide figures suggest that over one crore vehicles may still be non-compliant, prompting authorities to shift from awareness campaigns to strict implementation.

Under the Motor Vehicles Act provisions, vehicles found without HSRP during inspection may attract a fine of ₹1,000 or more. Officials have indicated that enforcement teams will not restrict checks to number plates alone. Comprehensive document verification will also be conducted, including Registration Certificate (RC), valid motor insurance, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and driving licence. Missing or expired documentation could result in additional penalties, increasing the financial burden on violators.

Earlier, the government had provided a grace period for vehicle owners who had booked appointments for HSRP installation before the December 31, 2025 deadline. However, with enforcement now commencing, authorities have clarified that only those with valid proof of prior booking may receive limited consideration. For all others, fines will be imposed immediately upon detection of non-compliance.

Transport officials have acknowledged that logistical challenges and appointment backlogs contributed to slower adoption rates. Some vehicle owners reportedly missed scheduled installation slots, while others delayed bookings until the final weeks before the deadline. Fitment centres were expanded in several districts to accommodate demand, but compliance levels still fell short of expectations.

The February 18 crackdown marks a decisive shift in policy. Authorities have emphasized that the objective is not merely revenue collection through fines but ensuring uniform vehicle identification standards across the state. With increasing vehicle density and urban traffic congestion, proper identification through HSRP plays a critical role in tracking stolen vehicles, monitoring traffic violations, and supporting law enforcement investigations.

Vehicle owners are strongly advised to complete the HSRP installation process immediately to avoid penalties and inconvenience. As enforcement begins, routine traffic stops, naka bandis, and random inspections are expected to increase. Officials have warned that repeat violations could invite stricter action under applicable transport regulations.

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