What are CD number plates in India ?
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We often see many vehicles on the road with number plates of different colours. What do you think? Why do some vehicles have red number plates, or white, or sometimes blue?
Every colour and code on a number plate has a specific meaning. For example, blue number plates are used by government authorities.
One such unique type of blue plate is the CD number plate, which stands for Corps Diplomatique. These number plates are specially issued to vehicles used by foreign diplomats, embassies, and consulates in India. They follow a different format and offer certain privileges under international rules.
In this blog, we will provide you with possible information about the CD number plate and its significance in India.
What are CD number plates in India?
CD stands for "Corps Diplomatique". It is given to vehicles used by foreign diplomats. This includes cars from embassies, consulates, and other diplomatic offices.
These plates are important for security. All foreign missions must use CD plates on their official vehicles, which can only be used for work-related purposes. These vehicles also need to be registered with the Ministry of External Affairs.
Who Can Get a CD Number Plate in India?
The following people are eligible to get a CD number plate:
- Only foreign diplomatic missions and organisations (like embassies and consulates)
- Vehicles belonging to the diplomatic corps in India
- Must be used strictly for official purposes
- The vehicle must be registered with the Ministry of External Affairs
- CD number plates are an important part of India’s security system
Documents Required for Corps Diplomatique Number Plate
Here is the list of documents that you need at the time of CD number plate application:
- Valid insurance certificate
- Proof of address (e.g., Ration card, Electricity bill)
- Application form (Form 42)
- Road worthiness certificate (Form 22 or Form 22A)
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
- Design approval copy of STA (for trailers/semi-trailers)
- Original sales certificate (Form 21) for ex-army vehicles
- Customs clearance certificate, license, and bond (for imported vehicles)
- Temporary registration (if applicable)
How to Register for a CD Number Plate in India?
Here are the steps by which you can easily apply for CD Number Plates in India:
- Step 1: Fill out three copies of Form 42. This must be done by the head of the mission or a consular officer.
- Step 2: Ensure the application is properly signed and completed.
- Step 3: Apply to the registering authority through the competent authority.
- Step 4: Pay the required fee and tax as per Rule 81 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989.
Why Get CD Number Plates in India?
A CD number plate is given to cars used by foreign diplomats, like ambassadors or consulate staff. These plates are important for the following reasons:
- No Extra Charges Vehicles with CD number plates do not have to pay toll charges on highways or parking fees in public places. This is one of the special benefits given to foreign diplomats.
- Legal Protection These vehicles are not stopped, checked, or taken away by police or any other law enforcement agency. This rule is followed to respect international diplomatic rights.
- Traffic Rule Exemption In urgent situations, these vehicles can cross speed limits or skip traffic signals. This is allowed only when needed for official work or emergencies.
- Better Safety Registering these cars with CD plates helps keep diplomats and their families safe and protected while they are in India.
- Easy to Identify The CD plate helps police and government staff to quickly recognize diplomatic vehicles, so they can offer help if needed.
- Smooth Travel Diplomats can travel across India without facing travel delays or local issues, as their vehicle status is known.
- Prevents Misuse Since CD plates are unique, they help prevent crime, fraud, or misuse of diplomatic vehicles. Only authorized people can use them.
Benefits of a CD Number Plate in India
Benefits:
- No toll or parking fees
- Legal protection from police checks
- Exemption from some traffic rules
- Ensures safety & easy identification
Conclusion
CD number plates in India are special plates given to vehicles used by foreign diplomats. These plates, marked with "CD" (Corps Diplomatique), come with certain rules, benefits, and protections.
They help in the easy identification of diplomatic vehicles and allow safe, smooth travel for diplomats and their families. CD number plates also play an important role in India’s security system, making sure that foreign missions are clearly marked and legally protected.
In short, CD number plates are not just different in colour. They have a special purpose and follow specific rules to keep everything safe and organised.
FAQs - CD number plates in India
A CD number plate is a special registration plate used on vehicles of foreign diplomats, embassies, and consulates in India.
CD stands for Corps Diplomatique, meaning the vehicle is part of a diplomatic mission.
Only foreign diplomats, embassies, consulates, and international organisations can use CD number plates in India.
No, only authorised diplomatic staff can use a CD number plate. It is not available to the general public.
Vehicles with CD number plates in India are exempt from tolls, parking fees, and some traffic rules. They also receive legal protection from police checks and seizures.
Yes, even though they are diplomatic, CD number plates must follow RTO rules such as correct size, English letters, and Arabic numerals.
Yes, all vehicles with CD number plates in India must be registered with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
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