By In a major policy shift, the Punjab Excise and Taxation Department has announced a new vehicle registration system that will link number plates to the owner rather than the vehicle. This game-changing update will impact all cars and motorcycles registered in Punjab, including key cities such as Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, and Multan.
What’s Changing?
Under the new system, number plates will no longer remain with the vehicle when it is sold or transferred. Instead:
- The number plate stays with the original owner.
- The new buyer will either:
- Be issued a fresh registration number, or
- Use a previously issued plate already registered under their name.
This change ensures greater transparency and helps prevent the misuse of registration plates in unlawful activities.
Categories and Costs Involved
Number plates will be categorized based on vehicle type—car or motorcycle—and can only be used within the same category. If an owner wants to reuse an old number plate on a new vehicle, they must pay a fee ranging from Rs. 500 to Rs. 8,000, depending on the vehicle type and plate status.
Moreover, current number holders can voluntarily surrender their number plates to purchase a new registration number for another vehicle.
Why the Change?
According to department officials, the new policy aims to:
- Improve vehicle ownership verification
- Strengthen law enforcement efforts
- Enhance security and anti-theft measures
- Simplify registration and transfer processes
The Excise Department has already submitted the relevant legal amendments to the Punjab provincial government, with the system expected to go live in the first week of next month.
What Vehicle Owners Need to Do?
If you’re a current car or motorcycle owner in Punjab:
- Be aware that your existing plate is now tied to you, not your vehicle.
- When selling your vehicle, remove your number plate before completing the transaction.
- Visit an authorized Excise office for guidance on transferring or reassigning plates.
The new Punjab Vehicle Registration System represents a significant advancement in making the province’s transportation infrastructure more transparent, secure, and citizen-focused. By tying number plates to individual owners, Punjab aims to modernize its approach to vehicle tracking and ownership, making it easier to enforce traffic regulations and combat fraud.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on publicly available data and official statements as of July 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, policies and procedures regarding vehicle registration in Punjab are subject to change by the Government of Punjab and the Excise and Taxation Department. Readers are advised to consult with authorized excise offices or official government platforms for the most up-to-date and legally binding information.
