Punjab is preparing for a major shift in how vehicle registrations and number plates are handled, moving toward a system inspired by practices in the United States. The changes aim to improve security, streamline ownership identification, and modernize an outdated process.

Personalized Plates to Replace Vehicle-Based Registration

Currently, number plates in Punjab are tied to the vehicle itself—meaning the plate stays with the car even if ownership changes. Under the new system, however, license plates will be registered directly to the owner, not the vehicle. This means that when a vehicle is sold, the seller will retain their license plate, and the new owner will be required to obtain a fresh one.

This reform mirrors the model recently introduced by Islamabad’s Excise and Taxation Department and is expected to be implemented across Punjab in the near future.

What Changes for Vehicle Owners?

The most significant impact will be at the point of sale. When selling a vehicle, owners will now remove and keep their number plates, effectively “unlinking” them from the vehicle. The buyer must then apply for a new number plate, either standard or personalized, under their own name.

Officials from Punjab’s Excise Department say this move will enhance law enforcement’s ability to track vehicle ownership more accurately. By connecting plates to individuals rather than machines, the province hopes to reduce the misuse of vehicles in criminal activity and improve accountability in traffic violations.

A Step Toward Smarter Mobility

This approach is common in many U.S. states, where license plates are treated as personal identifiers rather than extensions of a vehicle. Experts say the shift not only improves administrative efficiency but also simplifies ownership transfers and reduces registration fraud.

The rollout timeline for Punjab’s new registration protocol hasn’t been officially confirmed, but insiders suggest implementation could begin within the current fiscal year.

As more provinces move toward owner-linked registration, Pakistan may be setting the stage for a nationwide modernization of its vehicle tracking systems.