Got a car in India or thinking about building one? You’ll need to follow a set of rules that keep the roads safe and the air a bit cleaner. These regulations cover everything from emissions to crash safety, registration paperwork to periodic inspections. Below you’ll find the basics you can actually use today.
Emission norms – India follows the Bharat Stage (BS) standards, which are similar to Euro rules. Right now, BS‑VI is mandatory for all new vehicles. It means your car must have a diesel particulate filter or a gasoline GDI system that meets the set limits for NOx, CO, and HC.
Safety standards – The Global NCAP rating is the benchmark for crash performance. Cars must have dual front airbags, ABS, and a sturdy body shell. From 2024 onward, side‑impact airbags are becoming common for higher‑segment models.
Registration and tax – Every vehicle gets a unique registration number from the Regional Transport Office (RTO). You’ll also pay road tax based on engine displacement and vehicle type. The tax rates differ state‑by‑state, so a Mumbai car can cost more than the same model in Delhi.
Periodic Inspection (PUC) – Pollution Under‑Control (PUC) certificates are required every six months for diesel cars and every year for petrol cars. The test checks if your exhaust meets BS‑VI limits. Failing the test can lead to a fine or a temporary ban from the road.
Import rules – If you bring a car from abroad, it must pass the homologation test and get a conversion certificate. The import duty can be as high as 100 % of the car’s value, plus GST and registration fees.
First, keep all your paperwork in one place – registration, insurance, PUC, and service records. When the PUC due date approaches, book a test at an authorized centre; the cost is usually under ₹200.
If you’re buying a used car, ask for the original registration certificate, a recent PUC, and a no‑objection certificate (NOC) from the previous owner. Verify the chassis number on the RTO portal to avoid hidden issues.
For manufacturers or importers, partner with a testing lab approved by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). They’ll guide you through the homologation paperwork and help you meet BS‑VI limits without costly redesigns.
Don’t ignore recall notices. Manufacturers issue them when a safety component fails a test. Respond quickly – replace the part at the nearest authorized service centre and keep the receipt as proof of compliance.
Finally, watch for policy updates. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways releases new rules every few years, often announced in the national budget. Subscribing to a reliable auto news site or following the official ministry Twitter handle can keep you ahead of the curve.
Sticking to these basics will keep your car legal, safe, and greener. It’s not just about avoiding fines; it’s about protecting yourself and others on India’s busy roads.
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