Punjab plans to link number plates directly to vehicle owners

LAHORE: The Punjab government is preparing to launch a new vehicle registration system that will link number plates directly to the owner’s name, not just the vehicle.

The update was shared by PakWheels Co-founder Suneel Sarfraz Munj and marks a major shift from the current setup. Right now, number plates are issued for specific vehicles. Under the new system, every plate will be tied to the individual who owns the car or motorcycle.

This change aims to improve security and make the transfer of vehicle ownership more transparent. Once the system is in place, sellers will have to remove and keep their number plates when selling a vehicle. The buyer will then have two options: they can apply for a new number plate or use an existing one already registered in their name.

Officials from the Excise and Taxation Department say a proposal has been sent to the provincial government. It includes suggestions to amend current laws. The new system is expected to go live in the first week of next month.

There will also be new categories for number plates. Owners will be able to use their preferred plates across multiple vehicles. However, this will come with a fee ranging from Rs500 to Rs8,000, depending on the type of vehicle and plate.

Excise officials say the main goal is better traceability. By linking plates to owners, it will be easier to track vehicles used in illegal or suspicious activities.

The move is expected to bring more clarity to vehicle sales and help tighten controls on misuse of number plates and unregistered vehicles.

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