The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has rolled out a new vehicle registration and number plate system, aligning with the federal model. The system, implemented by the Excise, Taxation, and Narcotics Control Department, has taken effect immediately across the province and will be fully enforced after November 30, 2025.
According to the official notification, vehicle registration numbers and number plates will now be directly linked to the owner’s Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) instead of the vehicle’s chassis number. This shift is designed to enhance transparency, curb the misuse of vehicles in criminal activities, and streamline the process for law-abiding citizens.
Key Features of the New System
- CNIC-based Registration: Each vehicle is tied to the owner’s CNIC, ensuring accurate ownership records.
- Mandatory Ownership Transfer: Buyers must transfer vehicles into their own names within three months of purchase. Sellers are also required to ensure proper transfer to avoid liability.
- Deactivation on Sale: When a vehicle is sold, the CNIC-linked registration copy or smart card will be deactivated but will remain with the seller until reassignment.
- Number Plate Retention: Owners can transfer their registration number and plates to a new vehicle. Deactivated numbers can be retained for up to three years with annual biometric verification.
- Expiry of Non-Reassigned Numbers: If a number is not reassigned within three years, it will be cancelled, and the registration copy, smart card, and number plates must be returned to the authority.
Benefits for Citizens and Security
The CNIC-linked system is expected to make vehicle transactions more secure and convenient. By maintaining clear ownership records, the government aims to reduce fraud, ensure accountability, and deter illegal use of unregistered vehicles.
Authorities have urged vehicle owners to promptly update their records to avoid penalties and ensure compliance before the November deadline. With this reform, KP joins other provinces in modernizing its vehicle registration process in line with national standards.
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