Kerala Vehicle Tax and Fitness Renewal – 2024 Guidelines

Published by: PEAK Business Consultancy Services | Website: www.ourtaxpartner.com

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• 1. Kerala Road Tax: Rates and Payment Process
• 2. Vehicle Fitness Certificate Renewal
• 3. Penalties for Non-Compliance
• 4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Introduction

Maintaining compliance with vehicle taxation and fitness certification is crucial for vehicle owners in Kerala. The Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) has streamlined processes to facilitate timely renewals and payments. This guide provides detailed information on the 2024 guidelines for vehicle tax and fitness certificate renewal in Kerala.

1. Kerala Road Tax: Rates and Payment Process

1.1 Road Tax Rates

Road tax in Kerala is determined based on the type and value of the vehicle. Below are the applicable rates:

Private Vehicles

• Up to ₹5 lakhs: 9% of the purchase value
• ₹5 lakhs to ₹10 lakhs: 11% of the purchase value
• ₹10 lakhs to ₹15 lakhs: 13% of the purchase value
• ₹15 lakhs to ₹20 lakhs: 16% of the purchase value
• Above ₹20 lakhs: 21% of the purchase value

Two-Wheelers

• Up to ₹1 lakh: 10% of the purchase value
• ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakhs: 12% of the purchase value
• Above ₹2 lakhs: 21% of the purchase value

Commercial Vehicles

• Motorcycles: ₹900 (5-year tax)
• Three-wheelers: ₹900 (5-year tax)
• New auto-rickshaws: ₹2,500 (5-year tax)
• Old taxis: ₹7,000 (5-year tax)
• Tourist taxis: ₹8,500 (5-year tax)

Note: These rates are subject to change as per government notifications.

1.2 Payment Process

Vehicle owners can pay road tax through the following methods:

Online Payment

1. Visit the Kerala MVD Portal.
2. Navigate to the ‘e-Tax’ section.
3. Enter your vehicle registration number and chassis number.
4. Verify the displayed details and proceed to payment.
5. Choose a payment method (debit/credit card, net banking, UPI) and complete the transaction.
6. Download and save the payment receipt for future reference.

Offline Payment

1. Visit the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).
2. Fill out the required forms and submit necessary documents.
3. Pay the applicable tax amount at the counter.
4. Collect the payment receipt and confirmation.

2. Vehicle Fitness Certificate Renewal

2.1 Validity Period

• Private Vehicles: Initial fitness certificate is valid for 15 years from the date of registration. Subsequent renewals are required every 5 years.
• Commercial Vehicles: Initial fitness certificate is valid for 2 years. After 8 years, annual renewals are mandatory.

2.2 Renewal Process

Online Application

1. Visit the Parivahan Sewa Portal.
2. Select ‘Online Services’ > ‘Vehicle Related Services’.
3. Choose your state (Kerala) and enter your vehicle registration number.
4. Select ‘Apply for Fitness Certificate’ and fill in the required details.
5. Pay the applicable fee online and note the application number.
6. Schedule an appointment for vehicle inspection at the RTO.

Offline Application

1. Visit the nearest RTO with your vehicle.
2. Fill out Form 20 (Application for Fitness Certificate).
3. Submit necessary documents (RC, insurance, PUC certificate, tax receipt).
4. Pay the prescribed fee at the counter.
5. Undergo vehicle inspection conducted by the Motor Vehicle Inspector.
6. Upon successful inspection, receive the renewed fitness certificate.

2.3 Required Documents

• Original Registration Certificate (RC)
• Valid Insurance Certificate
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate
• Road Tax Payment Receipt
• Chassis and Engine Number Pencil Print
• Form 20 (Application for Fitness Certificate)
• Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, etc.)

2.4 Fees

• Two-Wheelers: ₹200 (Manual), ₹400 (Automated)
• Light Motor Vehicles: ₹400 (Manual), ₹600 (Automated)
• Medium/Heavy Vehicles: ₹600 (Manual), ₹1,000 (Automated)

3. Penalties for Non-Compliance

3.1 Road Tax

• Failure to pay road tax within the stipulated time may result in a penalty of ₹100 for the first offence and ₹200 for subsequent offences.

3.2 Fitness Certificate

• Driving without a valid fitness certificate can attract fines ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000.
• Additional penalties may include ₹50 per day for delays in renewal.

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I renew my vehicle’s fitness certificate before its expiry?
Yes, you can apply for renewal up to 60 days before the expiry date.

Q2: Is it mandatory to present the vehicle for inspection during fitness renewal?
Yes, physical inspection of the vehicle at the RTO is mandatory for fitness certificate renewal.

Q3: Can I pay road tax for my vehicle online?
Yes, road tax can be paid online through the Kerala MVD Portal or the Parivahan Sewa Portal.

Q4: What happens if I fail to renew my vehicle’s fitness certificate on time?
Driving without a valid fitness certificate is illegal and can result in hefty fines and penalties.

Q5: Are there any exemptions for road tax in Kerala?
Certain categories, such as vehicles used by individuals with disabilities or for agricultural purposes, may be eligible for exemptions. Please refer to the Kerala Motor Vehicles Taxation Rules for detailed information.

Conclusion

Adhering to the vehicle tax and fitness certification guidelines is essential for lawful and safe driving in Kerala. The state has facilitated both online and offline processes to ensure compliance is convenient for vehicle owners. For personalized assistance or further queries, feel free to contact PEAK Business Consultancy Services.