Pune’s MH 12 Vehicle Registration Code Will Not be Changed Despite Exhausted Series
Pune’s iconic vehicle registration code, MH 12, is set to remain unchanged even after the existing registration series reaches its limit, following an assurance from Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari. The assurance came after Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation and Pune MP Murlidhar Mohol met Gadkari in New Delhi and urged him to preserve the code, citing its emotional and cultural importance for the city.
The Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) is currently issuing registrations under the final MH 12 ZZ series. With the available two-letter combinations nearing exhaustion because of the steady rise in vehicle registrations, officials had begun preparing for the next registration format, leading to speculation that Pune could lose the MH 12 code.
Under the existing registration system, vehicle numbers follow the format of state code, RTO code, two series letters and a four-digit number. Once all combinations from AA to ZZ are exhausted, a fresh numbering system is generally required. The Pune RTO has already reached the final stages of the two-wheeler series, while the four-wheeler series is also expected to complete the ZZ sequence soon.
The possibility of replacing MH 12 triggered concern among residents, as the code has become closely associated with Pune’s identity over the decades. Beyond its administrative purpose, MH 12 is widely recognised in local culture, social media, merchandise and everyday conversations as a symbol of the city.
Officials had examined several technical options to continue registrations without changing the identity code. These included introducing three-letter series such as MH 12 AAA 1234, adopting revised alphanumeric formats, and reusing eligible registration numbers that had become available after vehicle scrapping or cancellation.
During his meeting with Gadkari, Mohol requested that the ministry issue the necessary policy directions to allow future registration series to continue under the MH 12 code instead of assigning a new RTO identifier. He said retaining the code was important to protect Pune’s long-standing identity and public sentiment.
According to Mohol, Gadkari responded positively and assured that the required instructions would be issued to retain MH 12 for future vehicle registrations. The final implementation will depend on the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways issuing the necessary technical and administrative guidelines, after which the Pune RTO can introduce the next registration series while continuing to use the city’s familiar code.
Vineet Gupta is the Founder and Managing Editor of PuneNow, where he leads editorial coverage on Pune’s civic developments, local infrastructure, traffic, and urban governance. With an academic background from the University of Wales and professional experience across journalism, hospitality, finance, and academia, Vineet offers a unique perspective on hyper-local journalism. Based in Pune, he is passionate about empowering residents with accurate, timely news that affects their daily lives, while offering insightful commentary on mindful living, parenting, and community connection.
