What Is the Fine for No Number Plate?

Why Having a Numer Plate is Important ?

Having a number plate is essential as they play a major role in maintaining the law and order of the traffic while driving on public roads. If an individual violates a traffic rule, it will be very easy to identify that person with the help of a number plate.

 

Number plates are more than  just for identification purposes. Without a number plate, insurance and a vehicle fitness certificate will not be issued. If the vehicle holder does not provide these mandatory documents, the vehicle will not be legal to drive on the roads.

 

It is crucial for all vehicles to understand the importance of number plate. In case, a person is driving without a number plate, it can lead to hefty fines.

 

The number plates are issued by the district level Regional Transport Office (RTO). The Motor Vehicle Act, governs the traffic rules and regulation in India. It also frames the fines and penalties for any traffic regulation.

 

Legal Requirements for Number Plates in India

The number plate for a vehicle is a metal plate that is attached both on front and back of the vehicle. Number plates ensure the safety of people driving on roads. It implies strict laws enforcement and some of the key legal provisions of number plates are listed below.

 

Display and Format

A vehicle's number plate should be displayed on both the front and back of the vehicle. Number plates have a specific dimension and are usually made of reflective material for proper visibility.

 

Colour and Font

The colour and font of the number plates should adhere to the guidelines. For example, private vehicles should display white number plates, and commercial vehicles should display yellow number plates.

 

The number plate's digits should be legitimate on both the front and rear, easily visible to ensure readability, and in fonts that adhere to the guidelines.

 

Registration Mark

The number plate should clearly display the registration mark of the vehicle. The registration mark includes a unique alphanumeric code, which is assigned by the regional transport office (RTO).

 

Size and Placement

The number plate should be fastened to the vehicle with proper fittings. The number plate should not be covered with any accessories like glass tinting. Decorating the number plate should be avoided for clear visibility.

 

Use of Fancy Fonts

The use of styled numbers, fancy fonts or any alterations in the order of the number plate should be strictly avoided. The number plates should be clearly visible and should not carry any additional symbols or slogans.

 

Ownership and Responsibility

The vehicle owner is responsible for having a legal number plate that follows all the specified information without any discrepancy. Any violation of the number plate can lead to hefty fines, penalties or even legal action.

 

Law Enforcement

Government officials regularly conduct checks to ensure that people follow law and order properly. People who offend the law are made to follow the law and regulations to ensure a safe road for the public.

 

Consequences and Fines of Not Having a Number Plate

The fines and penalties for not having a number plate are listed below.

Legal Violation

According to the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, driving without a number plate or a valid number plate violates the rules and regulations of the law. The RTO rule enforces that the display of a valid number plate is mandatory for driving on Indian roads.

 

Traffic Violation Fine

The fines and penalties for not displaying a proper number plate will vary depending on the circumstances, the state and the offence repeated for the number of times. The fine amount may range from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the offence. The fine is applied to make sure that the offence is not repeated.

 

Seizing the Vehicle

In some cases, government officials may seize the vehicle until a valid number plate is fixed, which will cost the vehicle holder additional money.

 

Legal Actions

If the violation is repeated, it can lead to legal action. The individual will be asked to appear in court, and further fines and penalties will be applied.

 

Risk of Being Used for Illegal Activities

If a vehicle does not have a number plate, it is at risk of misuse. The vehicle can be used for illegal and criminal activities that cannot be traced by law, which can further lead to law and order violations.

 

Insurance Coverage

Vehicles without a valid number plate may not have proper insurance coverage. Without a valid number plate, the insurance can become invalidate and the vehicle owner will be exposed to financial liabilities in case of damages or accidents. Additionally, driving a vehicle without valid insurance coverage will be considered a violation of law.

 

Inconvenience and Delay

Driving a vehicle without a number plate is an offence and can cause major inconvenience in daily activities. There will be routine police checks in toll booths, and other regulations can lead to penalties and hefty fines. Repeated violations of the law can lead to further legal actions and vehicle seizing.

 

How to Avoid Fines for Missing Number Plates?

Missing number plates can lead to hefty fines. Follow these steps to avoid getting fines and penalties.

 

Register your Vehicle

Ensure your vehicle is registered with the Regional Transport Office (RTO). After registering, you will receive a valid number plate as per the guidelines.

 

Installing the Number Plate

After obtaining the valid number plate, make sure to securely place it in the vehicle. The number plate should be fitted properly on both the front and rear sides of the vehicle. It is also essential to note that the number plate is visible and not blocked by any accessories or extra fitting. Additionally, make sure the number plate complies with the specific dimensions and colours.

 

Regular Maintenance

Check your number plate regularly to ensure that it is intact and legible. Replace it if it is damaged or not visible due to wear and tear.

 

Avoid any Alterations

Maintain the number plate according to the government guidelines. Do not try to make any modifications in fonts, styling numbers, or adding any decorations or unauthorised symbols. According to government guidelines, the number plate should not contain any accessories apart from the registered number.

 

Change of Number Plate

Always be aware of the changes in the number plate, as the government mandates. If your number plate is damaged, stolen, or lost, make sure to replace it immediately. Delays in rectifying the damaged or lost number plate can lead to legal complications or fines.

 

Conclusion

According to law, number plates are mandatory, and it is important to follow the rules to ensure a safe ride. This will ensure the safety of the vehicle owner and others who drive on the road. Additionally, it is important to update yourself with all the changes in number plates and adhere to them. This will avoid any legal complications and potential fines that are applicable for the violation.

 

Likewise, insurance is mandatory for driving on roads as it ensures that the person is financially secure during any damage or accidents. Shriram General Insurance provides Car Insurance at affordable premiums. Additionally, our digital platform makes it easy to purchase new insurance and initiate a claim.

 

FAQs

1. Why is number plate necessary?

A number plate is not only necessary but also mandatory to drive a vehicle in India. It is an identification for every vehicle and ensures the safety of people who drive on the roads.

 

2. What are the mandatory documents to carry while driving a vehicle in India?

The mandatory documents are 

• Driving license

• Registration certificate

• Insurance certificate

• Pollution Control certificate

• Fitness Certificate

 

3. Can I travel without a number plate in India?

Driving a vehicle without a valid number plate can result in hefty fines and penalties. According to Indian Law, it is considered illegal.