Pune’s vehicle registration system is undergoing a significant transition after more than 37 years, as the Regional Transport Office (RTO) replaces the long-running MH-12 series with the new MH-61 code. This change takes place following the depletion of available alphanumeric combinations under the existing format. As reported, Pune is the first city in Maharashtra to experience a complete exhaustion of its registration numbers.

Beginning from Monday, September 5, 2026, the new MH-61 registration numbers will come into effect. This follows the completion of processes associated with fancy vehicle number allocations, allowing vehicle owners to obtain unique identifiers at an additional fee. Maharashtra’s Transport Commissioner, Rajesh Narvekar, indicated that the new code will serve as a temporary arrangement pending approval from the Union government for a revised format that adheres to Pune’s MH-12 identity.

Current Statistics on Pune’s Vehicle Registration

The Pune RTO oversees vehicle registrations within Pune city and parts of the surrounding district, currently managing over 44.88 lakh active registered vehicles. Most of these vehicles were reportedly registered after 2011, while those recorded prior to this year may have been either scrapped or relocated. A senior official at the RTO noted that the last series of MH-12, which consisted of 9,999 numbers, was fully utilised earlier this week.

Under the existing registration framework established on July 1, 1989, vehicles in Pune have maintained the MH-12 code. This framework was implemented when the Union government introduced a new standard for vehicle registration numbers nationwide. According to RTO officials, more than 59 lakh distinct registration numbers could potentially be generated through available alphanumeric combinations, excluding the letters I and O for clarity.

With the expiry of the MH-12 series, estimated alternatives were presented, including formats such as MH-12 1A and MH-12 A1. Despite this, the introduction of the MH-61 code was deemed necessary. Officials indicated that an earlier proposal, which involved altering the registration format to a more complex structure, was halted as it necessitated amendments to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules and resulted in substantial revisions to the National Informatics Centre’s system.

Future Considerations for Registration Formats

Transport Commissioner Narvekar elaborated on the potential future registration format changes, noting that a swift implementation of the MH-12 1A option would require amendments to existing regulations. This process may be time-consuming, as approximately 45 days would be needed to issue notifications and solicit public feedback.

Earlier this month, a discussion took place where Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, Murlidhar Mohol, approached the Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, advocating for the retention of the MH-12 code. Gadkari’s positive response signifies ongoing dialogue regarding the registration structure.

As Pune transitions to the MH-61 code, it remains to be seen how future revisions will be implemented to ensure the city retains its historical registration identity. Until a final decision is reached by the Union government, Pune will operate under the new registration system from September 5.

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