Nowadays it is common to put number plates on vehicles. The number plate identifies whose vehicle it is, which state it belongs to, etc. Many things are known from number plates, but do you know in which country number plates were first installed on vehicles and why? Let us know the answer to this interesting question today.
History of number plates on vehicles?
The practice of placing number plates on vehicles started in the late 19th century. With the increasing number of vehicles, the traffic pressure on the roads was also increasing. Along with this, the number of accidents is also increasing. In such a situation, it has become necessary to find a systematic way of identifying vehicles.
Where was the first number plate installed?
The credit for installing number plates on vehicles for the first time goes to France. Number plates for motor vehicles were made mandatory for the first time in France in 1893. These number plates contained the registration number of the vehicle, through which police and other officials could identify the vehicle.
How did the number plate reach other countries?
After France, other European countries have also started installing number plates on vehicles. Number plates were made mandatory in Britain in 1903 and in Germany in 1906. Also in the US, in the early 20th century, many states enacted laws requiring number plates to be placed on vehicles.
When did number plates start being installed on vehicles in India?
The installation of number plates on vehicles in India started after independence in 1947. In India, the vehicle registration number, state code and vehicle type are written on the number plate.
Nowadays, number plates are no longer a vehicle identification tool. In many countries, number plates contain various information about the vehicle owner, such as vehicle model, engine number, chassis number, etc.
What is the importance of number plate?
Identification: Vehicles can be easily identified through number plates, making it easier to trace the culprit in case of accidents.
Tax Collection: Tax is collected from vehicle owners through number plates.
Traffic Control: Traffic control becomes easier through number plates.
Crime Control: Number plates are very useful in detecting stolen vehicles.