The process of replacing old vehicle registration plates with high security registration plates (HSRP) would commence in Patna on Tuesday. The Telegraph tries to make the switchover process easier for vehicle owners.

Is HSRP mandatory for all vehicles?

Yes, it is.

Where to apply for replacement of ordinary number plate with HSRP?

At HSRP counter in district transport office (DTO) at Biscomaun Bhavan. After collecting the authorisation letter against the requisite fee, the owner would have to take the vehicle to affixation station for getting the HSRP affixed.

Where is the HSRP affixation station located?

At Transport Nagar (near Pahadi) on Patna Bypass Road. The district transport office, Patna, is in the process of setting up another affixation station in Patliputra Co-operative Colony.

Can any vehicle owner apply for replacement of ordinary number plate?

No. According to the work plan of the state transport department, vehicle owners would be sent notices by DTO for number plate replacement. Only those vehicle owners would approach DTO office for replacement of number plates.

What is the work plan of transport department?

In the first stage, the transport department is aiming to get ordinary number plates of VIPs, including governor, chief minister, judges, members of state legislature and government officers replaced. Initially, vehicles purchased in the current calendar year (January 1, 2012 to June 9, 2012) would be affixed with HSRP. Later, vehicles purchased in previous years would be attended.

What is the process for getting old number plate replaced with HSRP?

Upon receipt of the notice from DTO, the vehicle owner would have to pay the HSRP application fee at HSRP counter. The vehicle owners would also be required to show relevant documents. After successful application, vehicle owners would be issued an authorisation letter for affixation of HSRP. The owner would have to take the vehicle to the affixation station within the allotted time slot.

In how many days the HSRP should be affixed after registration?

Within 48 hours of receipt of authorisation letter .

What is the deadline for replacement of old number plates with HSRP?

As per the work plan of the transport department, the ordinary number plates of all old vehicles would be affixed HSRP in two years.

How does the security number plate help if your vehicle gets stolen?

HSRPs are tamper-proof and self-destructive in case of attempts of tampering. Upon affixation of HSRP, the corresponding ledger code is fed into software, which is linked to a nationwide network. The details of a vehicle can be obtained across the country by entering the HSRP number.

Can vehicles from other states/district get HSRP in Patna?

No, only those vehicles registered in Patna can be affixed with HSRP.