Punjab Number Plate Policy Changed: Private Plates Allowed Without Fine in New Order

Punjab Number Plate Policy has been officially changed, giving relief to vehicle owners across the province. The Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Department Punjab has directed traffic police not to fine citizens using private number plates if they follow the approved format.

The new instructions were issued in a letter dated February 19, 2026. The letter was sent by the Director General Excise and Taxation Punjab to traffic police authorities across the province.

Officials said that during routine checking, some traffic officers were asking drivers to show original government-issued number plates. In some cases, citizens were also fined for not having official plates.

However, the department clarified that the system has now changed. The government has stopped charging fees for official number plates. It has also ended the centralized production of number plates.

Under the updated Punjab Number Plate Policy, citizens can now get number plates made from any private shop or vendor. But there is one important condition. The number plate must follow the approved Punjab format and design.

The department clearly instructed traffic police to check only the format during road inspections. Officers cannot demand original government-made plates anymore.

The order also said that vehicle owners using private plates should not be fined if their plates match the official design. Authorities have been told to strictly follow these instructions.

This step under the Punjab Number Plate Policy aims to reduce problems for citizens and make the process easier. It will also help prevent unnecessary fines and inconvenience during road checking.