Kerala Traffic Rules and Fines 2025

Kerala traffic rules have undergone a sharp digital transition over the last decade. As per the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, the state issued 1.88 crore e‑challans between January 2019 and December 2023, which is the third-highest in the country. The top violations were noted in districts such as Ernakulam, Kozhikode, and Palakkad. The staggering statistics reflect an alarming rise in traffic rule violations throughout Kerala. 

To tackle the issue, the state has upscaled its Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera network that is powered by AI to over 600+ junctions and repeat offenders are subsequently tagged based on the vehicle registration history. This blog breaks down the important Kerala traffic fines and rules to help you drive on the roads of Kerala safely and responsibly.

Quick Snapshot of 2025 Updates

Here’s a glimpse into what’s new in terms of Kerala traffic rules in 2025: 

• Kerala traffic fines for minors involved in road accidents have increased from ₹2,500 to ₹25,000. It also follows additional punishments. 
• Numerous AI-powered cameras are surveilling the highways of Kerala to detect traffic violations using their ANPR systems automatically.
• Installation of smart cameras in hotspots like Kannur and Thrissur has led to a 15% increase in traffic violation detections. 
• Frequent inspections at checkpoints and on-road surveillance have increased significantly.

Key Traffic Rules in Kerala

The Motor Vehicles Amendment Act 2019 has listed out some key traffic rules, followed by regular updates for improved safety. In 2025, the Government of India released a revised set of increased fines nationwide. Below are the updated Kerala traffic rules for you to stay informed.

Vehicle & Document Rules

• Keep a copy of relevant, up-to-date documents with you, or a ₹10,000 penalty will follow.
• Driving an unregistered vehicle is punishable under the Motor Vehicle Act.

Two-Wheelers

• Violation of passenger capacity leads to a ₹1000 fine for two-wheelers.
• Overspeeding can attract a fine of ₹5,000.
• Wearing safety gear like an ISI-marked helmet while riding is non-negotiable. 

Four-Wheelers & Taxis

• Minors involved in road accidents are a serious offence and attract a hefty fine of ₹25,000 in addition to other punishments.
• Wearing seat belts is now necessary for all occupants.
• Four-wheelers exceeding the maximum passenger occupancy will be fined heavily.
• Without a valid insurance certificate, the driver will be fined ₹2000 and a ₹4000 penalty for a repeated offence.

Common Offences

• If you’re caught using a mobile phone while driving, you will be fined  ₹5000.
• Compliance with the traffic light rules is a must. A ₹5000 penalty is charged for jumping a red light.
• Overspeeding is a common offence, for which the fine has been increased from ₹500 to ₹5000.

Kerala Traffic Penalties and Fines

Listed below are some of the important updated Kerala traffic fines in 2025:

How to Pay or Contest Traffic Fines?

Challan payments are made convenient with online integration, making it a hassle-free process for the citizens. Parivahan is a government portal where you can get details of the challans, make payments, lodge complaints, and more.  

Parivahan eChallan/ Motor Vehicle Department (Govt. of Kerala)

• Open Parivahan eChallan or Kerala’s Motor Vehicle Department official website.
• Click e-Challan.
• Fill in the challan number or vehicle registration number.
• Enter the CAPTCHA appearing on the screen.
• Select ‘Get Details’.
• Verify the challan details and make payment via any online payment gateway.
• After successful payment, download the payment receipt.

You can also use the CARS24 portal to check Kerala challan and pay it online by entering the vehicle information.
 

How to Register a Complaint for an Incorrect/False Challan?

• Open the Parivahan eChallan website.
• Find the ‘Complaint’ tab and click.
• Enter the required information carefully.
• From the drop-down menu, select your complaint category.
• Describe the complaint in the field below in fewer than 500 characters.
• Attach any relevant document or image.
• Type the CAPTCHA code and select ‘Submit.
• Complete verification with the received OTP.
• A ticket number will be sent to your mobile number and/or e-mail.
• Track your complaint status with the received ticket number. 

Safe Driving Tips for 2025

Here are some tips that can help one always stay on the right side of the law: 

• Assess road condition: Slippery or bumpy paths increase the risk of accidents, hence, maintain a safe distance between other vehicles in such instances. 
• No distractions: Say no to mobile phone usage, multitasking, and talking to others while driving.
• Drive within the speed limit: As per Kerala traffic rules, the speed limit for two-wheelers is 60 kmph, and four-wheelers is between 100-110 kmph.
• No drinking and driving: Alcohol consumption impairs judgement and alertness on the road and can lead to fatal accidents. 
• Passenger safety: Ensure everyone is wearing seatbelts in the car and the child lock is in place if children are present. Both the rider and rear passenger must wear ISI-marked helmets on two-wheelers. 

Conclusion

Awareness of Kerala traffic rules and fines is of utmost importance, not only for avoiding penalties but for fostering responsible driving habits. With the integration of AI-powered surveillance systems, it's easier than ever to get caught, and it has allowed the administration to monitor traffic violations effectively. Remember to follow the rules, drive safely, and you’ll not only save yourself from fines but also be a good citizen.