Archive · 22 Aug 2026
Pune Proposes MH-12 1A as MH-61 Nears Introduction
Pune is almost out of vehicle numbers using its MH-12 code.
The RTO is currently issuing the last ZZ series.
Officials expect the available MH-12 numbers to run out very soon.
They want to create a new format called MH-12 1A.
This would let vehicles keep the familiar MH-12 identity.
The proposal still needs approval and technical changes.
Until then, newly purchased vehicles will receive the MH-61 code.
A longer three-letter format was rejected because cameras might have trouble reading it.
Pune has more than 44.71 lakh registered vehicles, so officials need more numbers quickly.
Pune’s MH-12 registration series is nearing exhaustion, with the final ZZ series currently being issued.
The Pune RTO has proposed an MH-12 1A format to preserve Pune’s existing registration identity.
Until that proposal is formally approved and implemented, new vehicles will use the MH-61 code.
A three-letter MH-12 format was dropped because longer plates could challenge cameras and automated recognition systems.
More than 44.71 lakh vehicles were registered with the Pune RTO as of July 2026.
- Who
- The Pune Regional Transport Office, with efforts by Union Minister of State and Pune MP Murlidhar Mohol, is handling the registration change.
- What
- The RTO has proposed the MH-12 1A format while preparing to use MH-61 as an immediate alternative.
- When
- The existing MH-12 series is expected to end within about two days; MH-61 will be used until a new format is approved and introduced.
- Where
- Pune, Maharashtra.
- Why
- The available two-letter MH-12 combinations are nearly exhausted as vehicle registrations increase.
Preserve the MH-12 Identity
Use MH-61 Immediately
Registration identity
Preserve the MH-12 Identity
The MH-12 1A proposal would allow Pune vehicles to continue carrying the familiar MH-12 code while adding more combinations.
Use MH-61 Immediately
MH-61 provides a separate registration series because the existing MH-12 combinations are nearly exhausted.
Implementation timing
Preserve the MH-12 Identity
Supporters of MH-12 1A must wait for ministry approval and resolution of technical issues before it can be introduced.
Use MH-61 Immediately
Officials favor MH-61 as the immediate option because there is little time before MH-12 numbers run out.
Technical feasibility
Preserve the MH-12 Identity
The MH-12 1A format remains under examination and could be introduced if the required technical changes are completed.
Use MH-61 Immediately
Using MH-61 avoids the immediate technical hurdles and is intended to prevent interruptions in vehicle registrations.
- Current registrations
- The Pune RTO is issuing the final MH-12-ZZ series for two-wheelers.
- Proposed format
- MH-12 1A has been submitted to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
- Immediate code
- New vehicles will be registered under MH-61 until the proposed format is introduced.
- Expected exhaustion
- Officials said the existing MH-12 series could end within the next two days.
- Rejected option
- The proposed MH-12-AAA-1234 format was dropped over concerns about cameras and automated number plate recognition systems.
- Vehicle total
- More than 44.71 lakh vehicles were registered with the Pune RTO as of July 2026.
- Future possibility
- MH-12 1A could be introduced a few months after MH-61 if technical issues are resolved, though implementation is not guaranteed.
