In this guide, let’s find out what a CD number plate in India means, its significance, and who is eligible to drive with this number plate.
In India, the government issues a variety of number plates for different categories of people. This includes the unique blue-coloured number plate with white font and the letters “CD”. The CD number plate is for registering diplomatic vehicles. As per the Ministry of External Affairs in India, diplomatic vehicles are exempt from following a set of traffic rules in India. This even means that if required they can also not follow the speed limit, park in no parking zones, and ignore traffic signals. The CD number plate is an easy way for officials to recognize a diplomatic vehicle. Let’s take a closer look at the CD number plate and the process for registering diplomatic vehicles.
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CD number plate in India
The diplomatic vehicles in India get a blue number plate with white letters. These number plates also feature the alphabets “CD” along with a two digit code and the registration number. The CD stands for “Corps Diplomatique”.
Who can get CD number plate in India?
The Indian government issues CD number plates to vehicles that belong to the diplomatic corps in the country. This means that only foreign diplomatic missions and organizations (embassies, consulates, etc) can have cars with CD number plates. The CD number plates play an important role in India’s security system. While foreign missions are required to own vehicles with CD number plates, it is imperative that such vehicles are used strictly for official purposes. Also, the same vehicle must be even registered with the Ministry of External Affairs in India.
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Diplomatic Vehicles Registration in India
The Central Government has special provisions for the vehicle registration of diplomatic officers or consular officers. Such vehicles are assigned a special registration mark that needs to be put on display by registering authority. Additionally, a certificate of registration is provided to the owner to confirm the special registration of the vehicle. It is to be noted that this registration certificate becomes invalid if a diplomatic car changes ownership.
Guidelines for Diplomatic Vehicles Registration:
Here is how to register a Motor Vehicle of a Diplomatic Officer or Consular Officer in India
- First of all, as many as 3 copies of the application form (Form 42) must be completed by the head of the mission or consular officer.
- Then, the above application needs to be addressed to the registering authority via competent authority.
- Next, in accordance to rule 81 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, the payment of the appropriate fee and tax must be done.
Documents Required To Register For a CD Number Plate:
- Application form (Form 42)
- Address Proof
- For trailers or semi-trailers, a design approval copy of STA
- PUC – Pollution Under Control certificate
- Roadworthiness certificate from the manufacturers (Form 22) or body builder (Form 22A)
- Original sales certificate (Form 21) from the concerned authorities for ex-army vehicles
- Certificates for the customs clearance, license, and bond for imported vehicle
- Valid insurance certificate
- Temporary registration in cases where it is applicable
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Importance of Allotting CD Plates
The CD number plates provide certain privileges and protections to diplomatic vehicles. This includes:
- Diplomatic vehicles are exempted from payment of toll fee and parking fee.
- Such vehicles can’t be impounded or searched by law enforcement forces.
- Diplomatic cars are exempt from traffic rules and regulations. If required, they can cross speed limits and ignore traffic signals.
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Why CD plates are significant in India?
The CD plates in India are even important for a few more reasons. These include:
- Registrations of the diplomatic vehicles are part of the security layer for the foreign diplomats and their families.
- CD number plates make it easier for law enforcement forces and other government bodies to identify diplomatic vehicles.
- Registration of diplomatic vehicles allow foreign diplomats and their families can travel in India without inconvenience.
- The special registration status also deters crime and terrorism
