List Of Documents You Have To Keep In Your Car At All Times

If you are driving on public roads in India, you should always carry the documents listed below. Not having any of these on your person can lead to heavy fines.

Registration certificate

This document acts as proof that you have registered your vehicle with a regional transport office. When you get a new car, you need to apply for registration at the regional transport office within 7 days of the purchase. A registration certificate is valid for 15 years, and can be renewed for a periods of 5 years. The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 makes having a registration certificate mandatory for all motor vehicles plying on Indian roads.

PUC Certificate

A pollution under control certificate proves that your vehicle meets the emission requirements defined for motor vehicles on Indian roads. If your vehicle does not meet the pollution control norms, it is not allowed to be driven on Indian roads. To get a PUC certificate, get your car tested at any of the authorised testing centres. You could find these at most petrol pumps.

Driving license

The Motor Vehicle Act also makes having a driving license mandatory for all driving a motor vehicle in India. You cannot get a permanent driving license on your first application itself. You would be issued a learner’s license to begin with, after a month of this you will have to appear for a driving test at an RTO. The license is issued only if you pass the driving test. Remember to carry it on your vehicle at all times. Driving license is also accepted as an identity proof by various organizations.

Insurance policy

All vehicles on Indian roads must be covered by at least a third-party car insurance. Further, a personal accident cover of at least Rs 15 lakh is a must for all driving on Indian roads. That said, it is advisable to get comprehensive car insurance for complete protection from any losses that can arise from an accident or damage to your car. You should always carry the certificate of insurance in your vehicle. The actual policy can be stored elsewhere.

Any other required permits

If you are driving a vehicle for commercial purpose, you should carry all required permits in your car as well. You may also need to have a certificate of fitness showing that the vehicle is fit to ride on public roads.

It a police official pulls you over any time, you should be able to provide the documents listed above. If you are missing any, you could not only face heavy fines but your vehicle may also be confiscated.