Everything About PUC Certificate: What You Should Know!

Pollution has become a major global concern, with vehicular emissions contributing to environmental degradation. With millions of vehicles on the roads every day, maintaining air quality has become a critical challenge. To address this, various regulations have been implemented by governments worldwide, including India. One such regulatory measure is the Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate.

In this article, we will learn what is a PUC certificate, why it is important, how to obtain it, and much more. Whether you’re a new vehicle owner or simply looking to stay informed, this guide will provide you with all the essential information.

What is a PUC Certificate of Vehicle?

A PUC (Pollution Under Control) Certificate is an official document issued by the government that certifies a vehicle's emissions are within the permissible limits set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) of India. This certificate is a must-have for all vehicles on Indian roads, whether two-wheelers, four-wheelers, or any other type of motor vehicle.

The PUC system monitors and regulates vehicular emissions, ensuring that vehicles do not exceed the prescribed norms. This helps reduce air pollution, contributing to environmental sustainability and public health. Failure to obtain or renew a PUC Certificate can result in legal penalties and may impact the processing of insurance claims.

Why is a PUC Certificate Important?

• Legal Requirement: In India, the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 mandates that every vehicle on the road must have a valid PUC Certificate. It is essential to maintain the legality of your vehicle on the road.
• Environmental Protection: Vehicles are a significant source of air pollution, contributing to harmful levels of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and other pollutants. A valid PUC Certificate indicates that your vehicle's emissions are within the permissible limits, thereby reducing its impact on air quality.
• Insurance Claims: In some cases, insurance companies may require a valid PUC Certificate when processing claims related to accidents or damages. Without it, your claim could be delayed or even rejected, leading to financial loss.

Components of a PUC Certificate

• The serial number of the PUC Certificate is a unique identification number assigned to the certificate. It is needed for verification and record-keeping.
• The vehicle's unique registration number, which is issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) to identify the vehicle.
• The date of the PUC test, the location of the authorised PUC testing centre, and recorded levels of pollutants.
• The expiry date of the PUC Certificate, after which the vehicle must undergo a new emission test to obtain a fresh certificate.
• Reading of the PUC test stating if the vehicle has "Passed" or "Failed" the emission test. It indicates whether the vehicle meets the permissible emission standards or not.

Cost of PUC Certificate

First	Last	Handle
Two-Wheelers	₹60 to ₹100	Motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds
Three-Wheelers	₹80 to ₹120	Auto-rickshaws and other three-wheeled vehicles
Four-wheelers (Petrol)	₹80 to ₹150	Petrol-driven cars and other four-wheelers
Four-wheelers (Diesel)	₹100 to ₹200	All vehicles that run on diesel

Note: The validity of a PUC certificate for a new vehicle is one year. After that, you have to renew the certificate every 6 months. If an unfavourable reading is obtained during the PUC exam, the certificate's validity will be determined based on that reading.

How to Obtain a PUC Certificate?

• Visit a PUC Centre: You need to take your vehicle to an authorised PUC testing centre, which is typically located at fuel stations, authorised garages, or government centres.
• Provide Vehicle Documents: You’ll need to present the vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC), Proof of Insurance, and a valid ID.
• Emission Testing: At the testing centre, your vehicle will undergo an emission test. This involves inserting a probe into the vehicle's exhaust pipe to measure the levels of pollutants.
• Payment of Fees: After the test is completed, you will need to pay a nominal fee, which varies depending on the type of vehicle and the state where the testing is conducted.
• Receive PUC Certificate: If your vehicle passes the emission test, you will be issued a PUC Certificate on the spot.
• Retain and Renew: Keep the PUC certificate safe, as it is required for various legal and administrative purposes. Ensure you renew it before it expires.

Penalties for Not Having a PUC Certificate

Driving without a valid PUC Certificate is a punishable offence under Indian law. The penalties include:

• A fine of up to ₹10,000
• Strict legal action, including the suspension of their driving license or vehicle registration
• Complications in processing insurance claims

How to Check the Authenticity of a PUC Certificate?

• Check on the VAHAN Portal
• Review details on the certificate
• Scan the QR code available on the certificate

Conclusion

The PUC certificate is a vital document for every vehicle owner in India. Understanding what is a vehicle PUC certificate and how to obtain it not only helps you stay compliant with legal requirements but also plays a significant role in protecting the environment. Regular emission testing and timely renewal of your PUC certificate are essential steps in maintaining your vehicle’s efficiency and minimising its ecological impact. By prioritising these practices, you contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment for everyone. Trust Royal Sundaram Car Insurance to keep you on the road legally and responsibly.