Road Tax in Himachal Pradesh: Everything You Need to Know Before Registering Your Vehicle

Buying a new set of wheels in Himachal? Or shifting your existing ride to the hilly state? Either way, road tax in Himachal Pradesh isn’t something you can overlook. It’s not just about ticking off a formality; it’s a legal requirement, one that helps fund the upkeep of the region’s winding mountain roads and crucial transport infrastructure.

But here’s the catch: HP’s road tax rules aren’t the same as what you'd find in Delhi, Punjab, or any neighbouring state. From how it’s calculated to the exact rate based on your vehicle’s value or type, there are specific slabs you need to know about. We’ll cover it all, whether you own a two-wheeler, car, cab, or even a commercial vehicle. 
 

Who Needs to Pay Road Tax in Himachal Pradesh?

If you own or operate a vehicle in Himachal Pradesh, private or commercial, you’re legally required to pay road tax. This includes:

• New vehicles purchased and registered in HP 
• Vehicles brought in from another state (for permanent use) 
• Commercial operators (taxis, goods vehicles, buses, etc.) 
• Re-registered vehicles after ownership transfer

How is Road Tax Calculated in Himachal Pradesh?

Road tax in Himachal Pradesh is generally a percentage of the ex-showroom price of your vehicle, particularly in personal vehicles. In the case of commercial vehicles, it is more about usage, capacity, and passenger or goods-oriented. Here's what impacts the final tax amount:

• Vehicle type (2-wheeler, 4-wheeler, commercial) 
• Ex-showroom price
• Fuel type (Petrol, Diesel, CNG, EV) 
• Passenger capacity (for cabs and buses) 
• Vehicle usage (private or transport) 
• Vehicle’s registration age (for commercial or interstate transfers)

Example: Buying a new hatchback in HP with an ex-showroom price of ₹12 lakh? You’ll pay 6% as a one-time tax, which is ₹72,000, at registration.

Road Tax Rates in Himachal Pradesh

Two-Wheelers

Four-Wheelers (Private Cars)

Road Tax for Electric Vehicles in Himachal Pradesh

Road Tax for Other-State Vehicles in Himachal Pradesh

Tip: The tax is calculated on the original invoice value. You’ll also need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your previous RTO.

Note: Commercial tax is calculated on the type of vehicle as a fixed cost, which is recurring (yearly), not one-time, and is based on load, seats, or category. Most slabs increase slightly after 15 years.

How to Pay Road Tax in Himachal Pradesh?

Paying your road tax in HP is straightforward. You can do it either online or by visiting your local RTO office.

Online Method

1. Visit the Parivahan Portal
2. Go to ‘Pay Tax’ under your vehicle section 
3. Enter your registration number and verify details 
4. Select ‘Himachal Pradesh’ as the state 
5. Pay using UPI, net banking, or debit card 
6. Download the receipt for records
    

Offline Method

• Visit your local RTO office
• Carry: RC, insurance copy, address proof, ID, invoice 
• Fill Form 20/21 if applicable 
• Submit documents and pay via cash or DD

Don’t forget to carry your payment proof, especially if you're applying for NOC, transfer, or refund later.

Penalty for Non-Payment of Road Tax in Himachal Pradesh

Delaying or skipping your road tax? Expect to face penalties.

• Late fees apply per day/month of delay.
• Interest on unpaid tax may be charged annually. 
• In extreme cases, your RC may be suspended, or your vehicle could be seized.

Road Tax Refund in Himachal Pradesh

You might be eligible for a road tax refund in Himachal Pradesh under specific conditions:

• Permanent transfer of your vehicle out of the state.
• Double tax payment by mistake. 
• Vehicle scrapped or de-registered.

The refund amount is calculated based on the unused period of your vehicle’s registration (from the 15-year tax window). You’ll need to apply at your RTO with valid proof of transfer or cancellation, and you’ll have to submit your RC, NOC, proof of tax paid, and ID/address documents to initiate the refund.

RTO Offices and Contact Details in Himachal Pradesh

Click here for a complete list of RTO vehicle details in Himachal Pradesh

Summary

Road tax in Himachal Pradesh is not just a matter of law, but it allows you to drive with a clear conscience in the hills and valleys of this beautiful state. Whether you're registering a new car, transferring your vehicle to a new state, or operating a transport company, tax compliance is one way to guarantee a peaceful ownership experience. When it comes to buying or selling a car, CARS24 makes it easier with authentic listings, hassle-free transfer of ownership, and accurate RTO information, all in one place.