Mumbai: In a major relief for vehicle owners across Maharashtra, the state Transport Department has extended the deadline for installing High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) to November 30, 2025. The move applies to all vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, and comes after widespread challenges and public appeals.
The previous deadline was August 15, 2025, but Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar approved the extension on Thursday, calling it the "final opportunity" for compliance with the government’s mandatory HSRP installation policy.
“We’ve observed significant difficulties, especially in rural regions, where limited functional fitment centers and logistical delays have hindered vehicle owners from meeting the earlier deadline,” a senior official from the Transport Department said.
While the government has extended the deadline, it has also issued a stern warning: strict enforcement will begin on December 1, 2025. Any vehicle registered before April 1, 2019, found without an HSRP after this date will be subject to legal action.
According to an official, special squads will be deployed across the state for enforcement, and vehicles detained for violations will not be released unless HSRP installation is completed. Notably, vehicle owners with confirmed appointments for HSRP installation before the November 30 deadline will be exempt from penalties.
Why the Extension?
The decision follows complaints about the limited availability of fitment appointments and the closure of several HSRP installation centers, especially in rural and remote areas. Keeping this issue in mind, citizens, public representatives, and transport unions had requested an extension of the deadline.
According to an official, many older vehicles across the state still lack HSRPs, which are designed to improve road safety and aid in crime prevention. These plates are tamper-proof and carry a unique identification number, aligning with national standards for vehicle identification.
The Department made it clear that no further extensions are likely; vehicle owners are being strongly urged to act within the new timeline to avoid penalties.
Awareness Campaigns to Be Rolled Out
To ensure better outreach, the Transport Commissioner has directed all Regional and Deputy RTOs to launch intensive awareness campaigns. They have been asked to collaborate with local vehicle dealers and associations representing auto-rickshaw, taxi, bus, and truck operators to inform vehicle owners about the extended deadline.
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Additional Restrictions for Non-Compliant Vehicles
Currently, vehicles without High Security Registration Plates (HSRPs) face restrictions on several RTO-related services, such as ownership transfers, hypothecation modifications, and other vehicle-related updates.
Post-deadline, more stringent restrictions will come into effect, including denial of re-registration, no changes to vehicle details, and suspension of driving permit renewals (except for fitness certificates). Grievance redressal for affected vehicle owners may also be impacted, making compliance with HSRP regulations essential to avoid disruption of services.
