Key Highlights
- Know what a CD number plate means
- Explore who the eligible people are to drive this number plate and why this number plate is so significant
- Discover the process for registering diplomatic vehicles
Have you ever seen a car with a blue number plate with white lettering and the letters "CD" on it? If so, you have probably seen a diplomatic vehicle. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs registers diplomatic vehicles and exempts them from many traffic rules in India. This means that they can drive faster than the speed limit, ignore traffic signals, and park in restricted areas.
What is a CD number plate?
In India, diplomatic vehicles have blue number plates with white lettering. The plates bear the letters "CD" followed by a two-digit code and a registration number.
Foreign diplomatic missions and organizations, such as embassies and consulates, are the only ones who can own vehicles with CD number plates.
Who can get a CD number plate?
In India, CD number plates are issued to vehicles belonging to the diplomatic corps. This includes embassies, consulates, and other diplomatic missions. The CD stands for "Corps Diplomatique".
CD plates are a vital part of India's security system. Foreign missions must own vehicles with CD number plates, and these vehicles must only be used for official purposes. The vehicle must also be registered with the Ministry of External Affairs.
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Diplomatic Vehicles Registeration in India
Diplomatic officers or consular officers recognized by the Central Government have special provisions for vehicle registration. In addition, the registering authority assigns a special registration mark for display. Furthermore, a certificate of registration is issued to confirm the vehicle's registration under this section. However, when a diplomatic vehicle changes ownership, the registration certificate becomes invalid.
Guidelines:
registering a motor vehicle on behalf of a diplomatic officer or consular officer:
- Firstly, the head of the mission or consular officer must complete three copies of the application form (Form 42).
- Subsequently, the application should be addressed to the registering authority through the Competent Authority.
- Finally, the appropriate fee and tax specified in rule 81 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules 1989 must be paid.
Documents required:
- Application form (Form 42)
- Road worthiness certificate from the manufacturers (Form 22) or body builder (Form 22A)
- Pollution under control certificate
- Valid insurance certificate
- Proof of address (e.g., Ration card, Electricity bill)
- Design approval copy of STA for trailers or semi-trailers
- Original sales certificate (Form 21) from the concerned authorities for ex-army vehicles
- Customs clearance certificate, license, and bond for imported vehicles
- Temporary registration, if applicable
The Purpose and Significance of Assigning CD Plates
The purpose of assigning CD plates is to provide diplomatic vehicles with certain privileges and protections. These privileges include:
- Diplomatic vehicles are exempt from traffic rules and regulations, such as speed limits and traffic signals.
- Diplomatic vehicles are exempt from tolls and parking fees.
- Law enforcement cannot search or seize diplomatic vehicles.
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Here are some of the reasons why CD plates are significant in India:
- Firstly, diplomatic vehicle registrations help to ensure the safety of foreign diplomats and their families.
- Additionally, they deter crime and terrorism.
- Moreover, it helps to identify diplomatic vehicles for law enforcement and other government officials.
- Lastly, diplomatic vehicle registrations ensure that foreign diplomats and their families are able to carry out their duties in India without fear of harassment or intimidation.
