Want to drive a commercial vehicle in India? Knowing how to get a yellow number plate for your car is essential. A yellow number plate means the vehicle is registered for commercial use—whether it’s a taxi, rental, or transport service. But it’s not as simple as just applying. This guide breaks down the yellow number plate rules, yellow number plate means and the step-by-step process to get one legally.
Yellow Number plate in India
The yellow number plate in India, specifically, is for commercial vehicles. Commercial vehicles include taxis, buses, trucks, delivery vans, autos (three-wheelers), and other vehicles used for transportation or commercial purposes. These vehicles typically bear the yellow number plates in India and are driven by those with specific licenses to drive them. Here are some key points regarding yellow number plates in India.
What does the yellow number plate mean?
First and foremost, the background color of the number plate for commercial vehicles is yellow. The distinct color separates it from private vehicles, other self driven commercial vehicles, electric vehicles, and so on. The purpose of this distinct color is to differentiate them from the white number plates used for private vehicles.
Next, we have the appearance of these number plates. There are two components, the color of the lettering and the format. The numbers and letters on a yellow number plate are usually printed in black. This provides contrast and ensures readability. The format of the yellow number plate generally follows the standard Indian number plate format, consisting of a two-letter state code, followed by a unique alphanumeric combination assigned by the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
In certain cases which call for it, High-Security Number Plates (HSRP) may also be implemented for yellow number plates. These plates are made of tamper-proof materials and include features like a chromium-based hologram, laser-branding, and a unique identification number.
Yellow number plate with Red letters
If a vehicle has a number plate which is yellow, but has red lettering, it simply means that the registration process with the RTO is yet in progress. This number plate is temporary.
Yellow number plate with Black letters India
As the vehicle has been officially registered, there will be another alphanumeric code given to the vehicle, which can then be printed in black lettering on a yellow plate.
How to get yellow number plate in India?
There are three basic steps which need to be followed by an individual who wishes to get a yellow number plate- Registration, Inspection, and Fees.
- Registration :The vehicle has to be registered in the Regional Transport Office in your locality/state. If the commercial vehicle is not yet registered, the owner needs to submit the official documents such as the ownership papers, the PUC (pollution under control) certificate, proof of insurance that presently is in place, and whatever other document is asked at RTO. The process can be done via Vahan Parivahan sewa.
- Inspection: Once the commercial vehicle is registered, there will be a vehicular inspection that will take place. The main purpose of this inspection is to check whether the vehicle is safe to drive on the roads, and the level of roadworthiness. The aspects that are inspected may include the condition of the body of the vehicle and it’s interiors, if the vehicle has being complying with the traffic rules and regulations, condition of the engine and it’s parts, and so on.
- Fees: For every state, the fee usually varies. Apart from the geographical location factor, another thing to consider while gauging the probable fee, is the type of vehicle it is. There is no concrete information available online with regards to this matter, as the fees fluctuate in nature. In order to determine the fee amount that will need to be paid, the best option is to visit the RTO closest to you and inquire in person.
Features of Number plates in India
As we there are different types of number plates in India The number plates are identified on the basis of format, colors, state codes. A few examples of these features are:
- Format: The alphanumeric system that Indian number plates follow are very unique and representative. The code shows the location, number of the vehicle, and more details about the registration of the vehicle, and is extremely unique in every case.
- Colors: The background color of the number plate can range from white, black, red, yellow, and so on. The numbers and letters are usually in black.
- Fonts and Size: The details on the number plate are often in English. For the size of the font, dimensions of the plate, where the plate needs to be placed, and all these factors, there are guidelines that need to be followed.
- State Codes: Each Indian state has a unique two-letter code that is displayed on the number plate. For example, DL for Delhi, MH for Maharashtra, KA for Karnataka, TN for Tamil Nadu, etc.
- Registration Mark: The registration mark is the unique combination of numbers and letters that identifies a specific vehicle. It is assigned by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) where the vehicle is registered.
FAQs
Can I use a yellow number plate on a private vehicle?
No, you cannot use a yellow number plate on a private vehicle in India.
A yellow number plate with black letters is strictly meant for commercial vehicles—used for transporting goods or passengers for hire (e.g., taxis, trucks, auto-rickshaws).
If a private vehicle uses a yellow plate, it is considered illegal and can lead to fines or vehicle seizure by traffic authorities.
What does a yellow number plate mean in India?
If you see a vehicle with a yellow number plate, it means it’s used for transporting passengers or goods for a fee. This includes:
- Taxis
- Auto-rickshaws
- Buses
- Trucks
- Delivery vans
- Any other vehicle used for public transport or commercial logistics.
These vehicles are registered under commercial categories with the RTO and operate under specific regulations outlined in The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988
What is the benefit of a yellow plate?
Main Benefits of Yellow Plates
- Allows earning money by transporting goods/people.
- Shows authorities it’s a commercial vehicle.
- Requires commercial driver’s license and permits.
- Undergoes stricter safety/pollution inspections.
- Different (often higher) commercial taxes and mandatory commercial insurance.
- Signals a regulated service to public.
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