In a landmark decision, the Punjab Excise and Taxation Department has introduced a new vehicle registration system in Lahore, under which number plates will now be issued in the name of the vehicle owner, not the vehicle itself. The new system is set to come into effect from the first week of coming month.

According to Excise officials, all newly registered cars and motorcycles in Punjab, especially Lahore, will now be registered under the owner s name. In case of ownership transfer, the previous owner will remove the number plate and retain it, while the new buyer will be allotted a fresh number for the vehicle.

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This shift means that existing number plates will no longer automatically transfer with the vehicle. However, those who already own a number plate can choose to surrender the old number and purchase a new one for a new vehicle, if they prefer.

The new system will also allow number plates to be categorized according to vehicle type, such as separate categories for motorcycles and cars. Moreover, using an old number plate on a new vehicle will come with an additional fee ranging from Rs500 to Rs8,000, depending on the circumstances.

Officials stated that the proposed changes have been formalized into a summary, with amended rules and regulations already sent to the Punjab government for approval. Implementation is expected to begin early next month.

The major reason behind this overhaul is to address security concerns and to ensure that ownership can be traced directly through the number plate, enhancing law enforcement’s ability to track down suspects or vehicles used in crimes.

This move is being seen as a step towards greater transparency, vehicle traceability, and improved administrative control over vehicle registrations in the province.