In Karachi, the registration of new “Ajrak design” number plates has become a critical issue for vehicle owners. The traffic police have initiated a crackdown on vehicles still displaying old or unregistered number plates, prompting many to actively seek new plates for their cars and motorcycles.

Why Are New Number Plates Necessary?

According to Sindh’s Minister for Excise and Taxation, Mukesh Kumar Chawla, these new plates are vital for security reasons. He highlighted that the Sindh government launched the “Safe City Project” in 2018, which installed 12,000 CCTV cameras across Karachi.

The minister emphasized that effective crime control in the city is not feasible unless vehicles are registered in the name of their original owners.

Key Features of the New Number Plates:

• The plates feature a threaded background, 3D hologram, and barcode.

• They are designed to be clearly readable by CCTV cameras, even at night.

• Plates made from open market sources lack these security features and are deemed unacceptable.

Types of Number Plates by Color:

• White: For private vehicles and bikes

• Yellow: For commercial vehicles

• Green: For government vehicles

Fees:

• For four-wheeled vehicles (private/commercial/government): PKR 2,450

• For motorcycles: PKR 1,850

Easy Online Registration Process:

1. Open this link: https://taxportal.excise.gos.pk/home/quick_pay

2. Select your vehicle type: “Two Wheeler” or “Four Wheeler.”

3. Enter your mobile number and vehicle registration number (ensure motor vehicle tax is fully paid).

4. Fill in the captcha code.

5. Click on “Vehicle Details.”

6. Select the nearest excise branch.

7. Click “Calculate Amount.”

8. Choose “Deliver challan to me via courier.”

9. Provide your name, address, and other information.

10. Generate the PSID number (a 12-digit code will be sent via SMS).

11. Pay the fee via bank, ATM, Easy Paisa, or online banking.

Next Steps:

After submitting the challan, follow the instructions at the Excise Department’s office (Civic Centre in Karachi) to collect your new number plate.

The preparation of the plate typically takes about three months, and you will be notified when it is ready. It is mandatory to return the old plate when picking up the new one.