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ToggleIf you’re winding your way through central Kerala, perhaps driving past the misty rubber plantations or navigating bustling roads east of Kochi, you might spot a vehicle with the number plate KL 40. But what does that mean, and where exactly does it lead you?
You might find yourself wondering, “KL 40 which district does it belong to?” The answer: Perumbavoor, a thriving transport town located within the Ernakulam district of Kerala. Perumbavoor acts as a gateway between urban Kochi and the green interior hills, making it a familiar tag on vehicles crisscrossing this region.
For locals, KL 40 is just another vehicle identifier. But for tourists, road-trippers, and anyone renting a car or bike, understanding this code can help you trace where a vehicle is registered.
It’s especially useful when you’re traveling across districts, encountering police checkpoints, or just curious about the vehicles and places you see along the way.
Perumbavoor RTO (KL 40): What Travellers Should Know?
The Perumbavoor Sub Regional Transport Office (SRTO) might not be on your travel bucket list, but it plays a key role in central Kerala’s roadways. If you’re renting a car in Aluva, heading toward Munnar, or driving inland from Kochi, chances are you’ve come across KL 40-registered vehicles.
Whether you’re cruising through the rubber estates of Kuruppampady, exploring the old town of Kalady, or heading toward the foothills of the Western Ghats, this SRTO is responsible for a large number of vehicles you’ll pass on the road.
Here’s a quick look at the official KL 40 RTO details:
| Field | Details |
| KL Registration | Sub Regional Transport Office (SRTO) |
| Number | KL-40 |
| City | Perumbavoor |
| District | Ernakulam |
| State | Kerala |
| Phone | +91 9188917340 |
| Office Phone Number | 0484-2525573 |
| kl40.mvd@kerala.gov.in | |
| Address | Municipal Shopping Complex, Pattal, Iringole PO, Perumbavoor, Ernakulam 683548 |
While you likely won’t need to stop by the KL 40 RTO during your road trip, it’s helpful to know where your rental vehicle is registered, especially if you’re crossing district borders, hitting police checkposts, or just figuring out the local geography through the license plates you see.
What Makes KL 40 Relevant for Travellers?

In Kerala, vehicle number plates tell a story, and for those traveling by road, it’s a tale worth learning. Understanding these RTO codes adds a deeper layer to your trip.
Here’s why KL 40 is useful for travelers:
- It’s the code for the Perumbavoor Sub Regional Transport Office (SRTO)
- If you rent a car or bike in eastern Ernakulam, it’s likely to have a KL 40 registration
- It helps authorities identify a vehicle’s origin, useful during routine checks or district border crossings
- It simplifies document verification if you’re renting or leasing vehicles in the region
- It connects you to the area you’re exploring, Perumbavoor and beyond
So whether you’re weaving through forest roads toward Thattekad, visiting temples in Kalady, or exploring waterfalls in Paniyeli Poru, there’s a good chance your ride is a KL 40 vehicle, registered right here in the Ernakulam hinterlands.
Other RTO Codes in and Around Ernakulam You Might See
Ernakulam is a large and diverse district, with multiple RTO zones beyond Perumbavoor. As you drive through this region, whether toward the city, the coast, or the hills, you’ll spot different RTO codes that reflect the areas you’re passing through.
Here are some to look out for:
- KL 07 – Ernakulam (Main city, Kochi)
- KL 39 – Tripunithura
- KL 17 – Muvattupuzha
- KL 40 – Perumbavoor
These codes help Kerala’s Motor Vehicles Department manage traffic and registrations efficiently, and for you, the traveler, they offer a fun way to identify and connect with each locality along your road trip route.
FAQs
What is KL 40 and which district does it belong to?
KL 40 is the vehicle registration code for Perumbavoor, which is located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala.
Is KL 40 used in Kochi city?
No, Kochi city mainly uses the KL 07 code. KL 40 specifically refers to Perumbavoor, a town east of Kochi within the same district.
Can tourists rent a KL 40 vehicle in Kerala?
Yes! If you’re renting from providers in or near Perumbavoor, Aluva, or eastern Ernakulam, you’ll likely receive a KL 40-registered car or bike.
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive a KL 40 rental vehicle?
If you’re a foreign tourist, yes, you’ll need both your original license and an IDP. Indian citizens just need a valid Indian driver’s license.
Are KL 40 vehicles allowed to travel outside Ernakulam?
Absolutely. KL 40 vehicles can travel anywhere in Kerala and across India, as long as all required permits and documentation are in place.
Is the Perumbavoor region safe for tourists to drive around?
Yes. Perumbavoor is generally safe with well-connected roads. Just be cautious during the monsoon season, when heavy rains can reduce visibility and affect road conditions.
What can I explore with a KL 40 vehicle near Perumbavoor?
You can visit Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kalady temples, Paniyeli Poru waterfalls, Malayattoor hills, and several offbeat forest routes—all within easy driving distance.







