Vehicle Fitness Certificate – Charges, Procedure and More

When it comes to professional-level trekking, you must meet certain requirements to be eligible for the expedition. One of those requirements is a physical fitness certificate. The certificate, which is issued by a doctor, states that you, as an individual, are physically fit for the said activity. Just like a physical health certificate for your fitness, there is a fitness certificate for your car as well. Ensuring that a vehicle is roadworthy and meets the required safety standards, is a crucial aspect of responsible ownership. The Vehicle Fitness Certificate plays a pivotal role in this regard. Let's dive into all you need to know about this certificate in India, its significance, the process of obtaining it, and why it matters for vehicle owners.

What is a Vehicle Fitness Certificate?

A vehicle fitness certificate is issued by the Regional Transport Authority (RTO). This certificate indicates the vehicle manufactured is fit and ready to be driven. When a car is manufactured, various quality checks are conducted before it can be sent to the dealer. The fitness certificate check is the legal certification for the manufacturer to show proof of the vehicle’s fitness. Generally, new cars are issued with a fitness certificate for 15 years. It is essentially a document that verifies the roadworthiness and compliance of a vehicle in terms of road fitness. As a vehicle ages, it’s working also gets impacted with time. While a vehicle is serviced multiple times in its lifetime, its performance gets affected gradually, which in turn affects the overall fitness of the vehicle. In India, where the fitness of the vehicle is given priority, this Fitness Certificate can ensure that the vehicle is completely safe and fit to be driven on the roads.

Importance of Vehicle Fitness Certificate

A vehicle fitness certificate helps maintain road safety and protect the environment. It confirms that the vehicle is in proper working condition and does not pose a risk to the driver, passengers, or other road users. The certificate also ensures that the vehicle adheres to environmental standards by controlling pollution levels. Additionally, it is a legal requirement under the Motor Vehicles Act of 1989. Failing to maintain a valid fitness certificate can lead to fines, suspension of the vehicle’s registration, or even revocation of the registration, making it essential for responsible vehicle ownership.

Why is the Vehicle Fitness Certificate Important?

The following factors make this certificate an important document for your vehicle. Similarly, your car insurance policy is a vital piece of document you are required to carry at all times as per the Motor Vehicles Act of 1989:

Legal Requirement

Obtaining and displaying a valid Vehicle Fitness Certificate is a legal requirement in India. Driving a vehicle without a valid certificate can lead to fines. Repeated offense may lead to the suspension of your licence or the cancellation of your vehicle’s registration.

Road Safety

The certificate assesses the overall condition of the vehicle, including essential components such as brakes, lights, and steering. This ensures the vehicle is in a roadworthy state, minimizing the risk of accidents due to mechanical failures. A motor insurance policy might provide financial assistance for damage or injuries* in case of an accident, but it cannot guarantee the fitness of the vehicle. Hence, the aspect of road safety is taken into consideration.

Environmental Impact

The older the vehicle, the higher the emissions. The certificate emphasizes the importance of controlling vehicular emissions, a critical factor in combating air pollution. It mandates that vehicles meet specific emission standards to reduce their impact on air quality.

Documents Required to Obtain a Vehicle Fitness Certificate

To apply for a vehicle fitness certificate, you will need to submit the following documents at the RTO:

1. Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC): You get this when you purchase your vehicle.
2. Proof of valid insurance: This document is required to show your vehicle has valid insurance.
3. PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificate: Issued from the authorised PUC centre or RTO.
4. Driver’s license: This may be required for identification purposes.
5. Fitness application form (Form 38): Available at the RTO or Parivahan Portal.
6. Receipt of road tax payment: You will receive this receipt after completing the road tax payment.
7. Residential & Address Proof: This can include documents like an Aadhar Card, Driving License, Passport, etc.
8. Passport-size photographs: A standard passport-size photograph of yourself.
9. Pencil impression of the vehicle chassis number: This can be found in the engine of your vehicle.

RTO Fees to Obtain a Vehicle Fitness Certificate

The cost of obtaining a vehicle fitness certificate depends on the type of vehicle and the mode of testing (manual or automated). Below is the detailed fee structure:

Vehicle Fitness Certificate Fee Structure

1. Two-wheelers (Bikes & Scooters):

1. Manual Testing: INR 200
2. Automated Testing: INR 400

2. Light Motor Vehicles (Three-wheelers):

1. Manual Testing: INR 400
2. Automated Testing: INR 600

3. Heavy/Medium Motor Vehicles (Commercial Vehicles):

1. Manual Testing: INR 600
2. Automated Testing: INR 1,000

4. Granting or Renewal of Fitness Certificate: INR 200

Additional Fees

1. Granting or Renewal of Authority: INR 15,000
2. Appeal under Rule 70: INR 3,000
3. Duplicate Fitness Certificate (if the original is lost): INR 7,500

How to Apply for a Vehicle Fitness Certificate Online?

Follow these steps if you wish to apply for a vehicle fitness certificate online:

1. Head to the Parivahan Sewa website, operated by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
2. Click the Online Services option and go to the Vehicles Related Section on the website
3. Select the state, enter your vehicle’s registration number and select the RTO
4. Select the Apply for Fitness Certificate option
5. Enter your vehicle’s chassis number and your registered mobile number to receive the one-time password
6. Submit the OTP. Check your vehicle details. You need to enter your insurance details. For example, if it is a bike that requires a fitness certificate, enter the Bike insurance policy details
7. Submit the details, and make the payment online on the website
8. Take the printout of the payment receipt and the application form, which also contains the application number

Visit the assigned RTO with the application number and other required documents on the date and time assigned to you. and get your vehicle inspected. If the vehicle is found to be unfit during inspection, the RTO will delay the certification till the repairs are done. After the certificate has been issued, you can keep a soft copy of it on your phone. You can download a fitness certificate either from the Parivahan app or you can visit the Parivahan website and download the certificate.

How to Apply for a Vehicle Fitness Certificate Offline?

1. Get a printout of the application form either from the Parivahan Sewa website or from the RTO
2. Fill out the forms and submit them along with the required documents to the RTO
3. After submission, pay the fees for the certificate
4. Get your vehicle inspected by the RTO on the date allotted by them

What is the validity of the vehicle fitness certificate?

The validity of the vehicle fitness certificate is as follows:

1. For cars - 15 years.
2. For two-wheelers - 15 years.
3. For commercial vehicles up to 8 years old, - 2 years.

If you are found driving your vehicle without a valid vehicle fitness certificate, the fines are:

1. For a first-time offence - Rs.2000 up to Rs.5000.
2. For repeated offences - up to Rs.10,000 (and also attracts imprisonment).

If you delay renewing the certificate, the fine is set at Rs.50 per day as per the provision under the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. Also Read: Top 7 Best Mileage Cars Under 10 Lakhs in India for 2024

How Can You Check the Fitness Certificate Status Online?

To check the fitness certificate status online, visit the official RTO website of your state. Use the vehicle's registration number and other details to search for the fitness certificate status. Some state-specific RTO websites may also provide this functionality. You can also track the progress of your application and confirm whether the certificate has been issued. Some RTOs may also provide a tracking number for this purpose.

How to Download the Vehicle Fitness Certificate?

Once your vehicle fitness certificate is issued, download it through the respective state’s RTO portal. Visit the RTO website, log in to your account, and navigate to the section where the fitness certificate is available. You can then download and print the certificate for your records.

How to Get a Duplicate Vehicle Fitness Certificate?

If you lose your vehicle fitness certificate, you can apply for a duplicate through the RTO. Visit the RTO office, fill out the appropriate form, and use along with supporting documents, such as a copy of the vehicle’s registration certificate and a police report in case of theft. The duplicate certificate will be issued after verification.

How to Renew the Vehicle Fitness Certificate?

To renew your vehicle fitness certificate, visit the nearest RTO and apply for renewal. Your vehicle will undergo an inspection to ensure that it meets the necessary standards. You will be issued a new fitness certificate if your car passes the inspection. For vehicles older than 15 years, the renewal process may include a fitness test and additional approvals, depending on state regulations.

Forms and Documents Required to Obtain a Fitness Certificate

To obtain a vehicle fitness certificate, you need to submit the following:

1. Form 21 (Vehicle Sale Certificate)
2. Form 22 (Certificate of Roadworthiness)
3. Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
4. Valid Insurance Policy
5. PUC Certificate (Pollution Under Control Certificate)
6. Road Tax Payment Receipt
7. Identity and Address Proof (such as Aadhaar Card, Passport, etc.)
8. Pencil Impression of the Chassis Number
9. Passport-size Photographs

Ensure that all documents are original and up-to-date for a smooth process. If applicable, include a Temporary RC and other additional documents specified by your local RTO.

Fitness Certificate for a Vehicle

Obtaining a vehicle fitness certificate ensures your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. The process includes an RTO inspection of components like brakes, steering, and lights, and an emission test to meet pollution norms. Vehicles older than 15 years undergo stricter checks. Regular renewals and inspections are required, especially for commercial vehicles, which need more frequent checks to ensure roadworthiness. Keeping your fitness certificate updated helps reduce accidents and environmental pollution. A valid vehicle fitness certificate is also important for car insurance renewal, as insurers may refuse coverage without it. For health insurance, Bajaj Allianz General Health Insurance Company offers plans to protect you and your family from unexpected medical expenses.

How Much is the Fine for an Expired Fitness Certificate (FC)?

Driving with an expired Fitness Certificate (FC) in India can result in fines ranging from INR 2,000 to INR 5,000 for the first offence and INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 for the second offence. Repeated violations may even lead to imprisonment. Insurance claims may be denied for commercial vehicles without a valid fitness certificate. For private vehicles, this typically applies only if the vehicle is older than 15 years, as a fitness certificate is required during renewal. A valid fitness certificate ensures road safety and environmental protection. Renewing it on time helps avoid penalties and ensures your vehicle meets safety and emission standards. Also Read: Best Family Cars in India in 2024 with Prices & Specifications

What is the Connection between vehicle a fitness certificate and car insurance?

Your four-wheeler insurance is one of the mandatory documents required by the RTO when it comes to issuing a new certificate for your car or for its renewal. Recent judgments have made it clear that the insurer is liable for compensation to the policyholder even if the vehicle’s fitness certificate is missing [1]. However, as a responsible car owner and policyholder, it would be prudent to renew your car’s fitness certificate from time to time to avoid any unnecessary hassles if you were to claim car insurance. * Also Read: Safest Cars in India with Global NCAP Rating 2024

Conclusion

The Vehicle Fitness Certificate is more than just a piece of paper; it's a commitment to safety, environmental responsibility, and compliance with the law. As vehicle owners, obtaining and renewing this certificate should be a routine part of our responsibilities. It can not only ensure vehicles are in optimal condition but can also contribute to a cleaner and safer driving environment for all. Also Read: Best Cars Under 15 Lakh in India

FAQs

How can I find my vehicle’s chassis and engine number for renewing the fitness certificate?

You can find your vehicle’s chassis and engine number on the registration certificate (RC) or in the owner’s manual. These numbers are also embossed on the vehicle’s body, usually under the windshield or near the engine.

How do I register my phone number to receive an OTP for applying for a fitness certificate?

To register your phone number for OTP verification, visit your local RTO's online portal, create an account, and update your contact details. Ensure your phone number is linked to your vehicle’s registration for seamless OTP delivery.

What should I do if my vehicle fails the fitness certificate test?

If your vehicle fails the fitness certificate test, you must address the identified issues, such as faulty brakes, lights, or emission levels. After repairs, you can reapply for the test and ensure the vehicle meets all standards.

How long is a vehicle’s fitness certificate valid in India?

In India, private vehicle fitness certificates are valid for 15 years and require renewal every 5 years after that. For commercial vehicles, the validity is 2 years initially, and annual renewal is needed after 8 years.

What is the process to extend the validity of a vehicle’s fitness certificate?

To extend the validity of your vehicle's fitness certificate, you must undergo a re-inspection before the certificate expires. Submit the necessary documents, pay the applicable fees, and get your vehicle re-evaluated at the RTO to renew the certificate. *Standard T&C Apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.