KL 18 Which District?

If you’re road‑tripping through the northern stretch of Kerala, somewhere between the breezy shores of Kozhikode and the calm coastal lanes leading toward Kannur, you’ll eventually spot a vehicle bearing the number plate KL 18. But what does that mean, and where exactly does it point to?

You might find yourself wondering, “KL 18 which district does it belong to?” The answer is Vadakara, a coastal town that falls within the Kozhikode district of Kerala. It’s a popular stopover for travelers exploring Kerala’s northern seaside belt, known for its beaches, backwater routes, cultural heritage, and classic Malabar charm.

For locals, KL 18 is just another identifier on their vehicle. But for tourists, long‑distance riders, and anyone renting a car or bike, knowing this code helps you track where a vehicle is registered, especially useful when you’re crossing districts, navigating highway check posts, or simply curious about the places you pass through.

Vadakara RTO (KL 18): What Travellers Should Know?

The Vadakara Regional Transport Office (RTO) might not appear on your typical travel itinerary, but it quietly supports much of the traffic movement along Kerala’s northern coastal highways.

Whether you’re cruising toward Kozhikode city, detouring to Mahe for a French‑inspired town experience, or driving up toward Kannur’s beaches, this RTO manages many of the vehicles you’ll spot throughout the region.

Here’s a quick look at the official KL 18 details:

You may never need to walk into the KL 18 RTO during your Kerala trip, but it’s helpful to know where your rental vehicle originates, especially when you’re crossing district borders, pulling over at beach viewpoints, or navigating routine inspections along NH66.

What Makes KL 18 Relevant for Travellers?

When you’re renting a vehicle in Kerala or planning a self‑drive adventure around the Malabar coast, the registration code gives you more information than you might think.

It tells you:

• KL 18 is the code for the Vadakara Regional Transport Office (RTO)
• If you’re renting a vehicle near Vadakara, Mahe, Quilandy, or northern Kozhikode, it will likely carry a KL 18 number plate
• Officials can quickly identify the vehicle’s origin during check posts on NH66
• It makes paperwork and permit verifications simpler if you’re crossing into Kannur or other districts
• It helps you understand the region you’re driving through, especially during long coastal drives

Whether you’re heading toward Thikkodi’s scenic drive‑in beach, exploring Lokanarkavu Temple, or cruising along the picturesque Vadakara coastline, there’s a good chance you’ll be behind the wheel of a KL 18‑registered vehicle, tying your road trip back to this vibrant northern Kerala hub.

Other RTO Codes in and Around Kozhikode You Might See

Kozhikode is a large district with multiple registration zones. While KL 18 specifically represents Vadakara, nearby areas have their own codes as well.

If you’re exploring the northern Malabar coastline, you might notice these registration numbers:

• • KL 11 – Kozhikode
• • KL 22 –Thiruvananthapuram
• • KL 17 – Muvattupuzha
• • KL 58 – Thalassery
• • KL 13 – Kannur

These vehicle codes help streamline registration across Kerala’s districts—and for travellers, they offer a fun way to piece together the geography of the region as you drive through.

FAQs

What is KL 18 and which district does it belong to?

KL 18 is the vehicle registration code assigned to the Vadakara Regional Transport Office, located in the Kozhikode district of Kerala.

Is KL 18 used in Kozhikode city?

Not usually. Kozhikode city mainly uses KL 11, while KL 18 refers specifically to Vadakara and surrounding northern areas of the district.

Can tourists rent a KL 18 vehicle in Kerala?

Absolutely! Many rental services in and around Vadakara, Mahe, Quilandy, and northern Kozhikode provide cars and bikes registered under KL 18.

Do foreign tourists need an IDP to drive KL 18 vehicles?

Yes. Foreign travellers must carry both a valid home‑country license and an International Driving Permit. Indian citizens only need a valid Indian driver’s licence.

Are KL 18 vehicles allowed to travel outside Kozhikode district?

Yes. KL 18 vehicles can travel anywhere within Kerala and all over India as long as valid permits and documentation are carried.

Is the Vadakara region safe for tourists to drive around?

Yes. The area is generally safe and well‑connected. However, monsoon months can bring slippery roads and low visibility, so caution is recommended.

What places can I explore around Vadakara with a KL 18 rental vehicle?

You can visit Vadakara Beach, Lokanarkavu Temple, Thikkodi Beach, Mahe, Kozhikode city, and several cultural spots across North Kerala.