Pune's Iconic MH-12 Registration Code Likely to Continue as RTO Proposes New Alphanumeric Numbering Format
The Pune RTO has proposed a new MH-12 1A alphanumeric registration format to the Centre as the current MH-12 ZZ series is expected to end within days. If approved, Pune will become the first city in India to adopt this unique numbering system, ensuring the city's iconic MH-12 registration identity continues.
Pune: The iconic MH-12 vehicle registration code is likely to remain in use even after the current series is exhausted, with the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) proposing a first-of-its-kind alphanumeric numbering format to the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
MH-12 ZZ Series Nearing Exhaustion
According to officials, the existing MH-12 ZZ series—the final combination under the current two-letter suffix system—is expected to be exhausted within the next 10 to 15 days due to the steady increase in vehicle registrations across Pune.
New 'MH-12 1A' Format Proposed
Instead of assigning Pune a new registration code or introducing a three-letter suffix, the Pune RTO has proposed a new format that combines one numeral followed by one alphabet, beginning with MH-12 1A.
If approved, this would be the first vehicle registration format of its kind in India.
MH-12 Identity to Be Preserved
The proposal aims to preserve Pune's long-standing MH-12 identity while solving the shortage of available registration combinations. The new numbering system would allow future vehicles to continue carrying the MH-12 prefix instead of switching to a different district code.
The proposal follows recent public discussions after reports suggested Pune might receive a new registration code, MH-61, once the existing combinations were exhausted.
Awaiting Central Government Approval
The proposal has been submitted to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, which will take the final decision after reviewing it. Officials remain optimistic that the Centre will approve the new alphanumeric series.
If sanctioned, all newly registered vehicles in Pune will continue to display the MH-12 prefix with the new alphanumeric suffix replacing the existing two-letter sequence.