Sindh links Vehicle Plates to CNIC Under New Law

The Sindh government has enforced the Provincial Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2024, introducing CNIC-linked vehicle number plates across the province.

Under the revised framework, number plates will now be issued against a citizen’s Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) instead of being permanently tied to a vehicle.

The change aims to streamline registration records, improve traceability, and curb fraudulent transfers. 

Plates Now Belong to the Owner

Under the updated system:

• Number plates are linked to the owner’s CNIC.
• When a vehicle is sold, the seller retains the registration mark.
• The retained plate can be transferred to another vehicle registered under the same CNIC.
• Deactivated plates can be held for up to one year.

Previously, registration numbers were permanently attached to a specific vehicle, regardless of ownership changes.

Officials say the owner-centric approach will strengthen regulatory oversight and reduce irregularities in record-keeping.

Revised Vehicle Categories

The amendment also restructures vehicle classifications:

• One category for motorcycles and rickshaws
• One category for all four-wheelers

The earlier distinction between commercial and private vehicles has been removed under the new regime.

Fees and Design Options

Authorities have clarified:

• No additional fee will be charged for standard CNIC-based plates.
• Ajrak-themed plates will be treated as transfer cases, with applicable charges.
• Owners with multiple vehicles can secure separate registration marks for each vehicle.

According to the Sindh Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Department, existing number plates issued before the amendment will automatically be recognised as personalised registration marks.

This owner-centric model mirrors similar reforms introduced in other provinces and the federal capital, aimed at modernising Pakistan’s vehicle registration infrastructure.   

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