How to Get Official Plates in Punjab 2025

Every vehicle in Punjab must have an official number plate issued by the Excise & Taxation Department. Driving with fake or private plates is illegal and can result in heavy fines. Number plates are not just pieces of metal; they are the official identity of your car or bike in the government record.

What are Punjab Number Plates?

Punjab number plates are government-approved registration plates linked with your vehicle smart card. These plates confirm that your vehicle is properly registered in the Excise Punjab system.

They are:

• Legal proof of registration
• Required for both cars and motorcycles
• Important for traffic police verification

Why Do You Need Official Number Plates?

Using official plates is very important because:

• ✅ It is a legal requirement in Punjab
• ✅ Prevents fines, challans, or vehicle confiscation
• ✅ Ensures your vehicle record is safe in Excise Punjab database
• ✅ Makes resale and ownership transfer easier

Types of Number Plates in Punjab

In Punjab, the Excise Department issues different types of plates:

• Car Number Plates
• Bike / Motorcycle Number Plates
• Commercial Vehicle Plates (buses, trucks, rickshaws)
• Special Plates (VIP numbers, custom series)

Documents Required for Official Number Plates

Before applying, keep these documents ready:

• CNIC copy of vehicle owner
• Vehicle Registration Smart Card copy
• Challan / Fee payment slip
• Application form (if required)

How to Apply for Punjab Number Plates

Offline Method (Excise Office)

1. Visit the nearest Excise & Taxation Office.
2. Fill the application form for number plates.
3. Submit documents + registration smart card copy.
4. Pay official fee at bank challan counter.
5. Collect receipt and wait for delivery.

Online Method (via Excise Punjab Portal)

1. Go to Excise Punjab online portal.
2. Create an account with CNIC & phone number.
3. Enter vehicle details (registration, chassis, engine).
4. Upload scanned documents.
5. Pay fee online through ePay Punjab App or bank challan.
6. Receive confirmation SMS → collect plates later or get home delivery (if available).

Punjab Number Plate Fee Structure (2025)

Fees are very reasonable:

• Bike Number Plate Fee → Around Rs. 500–700
• Car Number Plate Fee → Around Rs. 1000–2000
• Duplicate Plate Fee → Slightly higher than original

Tip: Always check the latest official fee list from Excise Punjab before applying.

Delivery Time & Tracking

• Normal delivery time: 2 to 4 weeks
• Track status on Excise Punjab website
• If delayed, contact Excise helpline or visit office

Rules & Penalties for Fake or Missing Plates

Driving without official plates can cause trouble.

• Fake or fancy plates → Heavy fine + possible vehicle confiscation
• Driving without plates → Challan and penalty
• Lost plates → Always apply for a duplicate immediately

How to Get Duplicate Number Plates in Punjab

If your plates are lost or damaged:

1. File an FIR copy for lost plates.
2. Visit Excise office with CNIC + smart card copy.
3. Fill duplicate plate application form.
4. Pay duplicate fee.
5. Collect your new plates after processing.

Common Problems & Solutions

• Delay in delivery → Use Excise tracking or call helpline.
• Wrong details printed → Apply for correction.
• Fraud agents → Never go to private dealers; use official Excise office only.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)