Road Tax in Karnataka: A Complete Guide

When you're buying a vehicle or transferring your old vehicle to Karnataka, you need to pay the road tax that is applicable on your vehicle. It is mandatory by law, and every citizen has to pay for it regardless of the state in which they reside. The larger purpose of paying road tax is to help the state government fund construction of better road networks and pay for its maintenance.

However, the road tax regulations vary from state to state. Every state has its own tax slabs and calculation criteria. In this blog, we'll discuss the rates of road tax in Karnataka, payment methods, penalties and refunds.

Who Must Pay Road Tax in Karnataka?

Anyone driving a vehicle on public roads in Karnataka is liable to pay road tax. Regardless of whether you're the owner of a private car, two-wheeler, or commercial goods vehicle, you must pay the road tax in Karnataka. If you buy your vehicle in another state and transfer it to Karnataka, then you'll have to re-register your vehicle and pay the road tax.

How is Road Tax Calculated in Karnataka?

Road tax in Karnataka isn't a flat rate. It's calculated based on multiple factors. The key components that affect the final tax amount include:

• Vehicle Type: Two-wheeler, four-wheeler, or commercial vehicle.
• Engine Capacity: Higher cc translates to higher tax.
• Ex-Showroom Price: Luxury vehicles attract higher rates.
• Fuel Type: Concessions for EVs are provided; diesel is charged more.
• Usage Type: Taxation of private vs. commercial vehicles is different.
• Age of the Vehicle: The older the car, the lower the tax rate.

Example:

If you buy a new car in Bangalore for ₹8 lakh, your road tax would be 14% of ₹8 lakh which is ₹1.12 lakh.

Road Tax Rates in Karnataka

Here is a detailed table of the Road tax in Karnataka for various vehicle types and criteria:

Note: Karnataka charges a lifetime tax for personal vehicles. However, for commercial vehicles, the tax is paid annually based on the particular vehicle and weight class.

How to Pay Road Tax in Karnataka?

It is very simple to pay road tax in Karnataka, and there are offline and online payment methods.

Online Mode (through Parivahan Portal):

1. Visit the Parivahan Portal.
2. Go to "Online Services"> "Vehicle-Related Services."
3. Select Karnataka and choose the suitable RTO.
4. Select the "Pay Your Tax" option.
5. Enter your vehicle's registration number and chassis number.
6. Pay the tax.
7. Download the receipt for the record.

Offline Process:

1. Go to your local RTO office.
2. Take all the documents with you:
3. Vehicle Invoice
4. Registration Certificate (RC)
5. ID & Address Proof
6. Insurance Certificate
7. NOC & Form KMVT14 (in case of re-registered vehicles)
8. Get documents attested and pay in cash/card/DD.

Penalty for Non-payment of Road Tax in Karnataka

Unless you settle your road tax within 30 days' grace, it is a default. Here's what can happen in that case:

• The authorities can seize your car.
• It will only be returned upon payment of the full tax and penalty chargeable.
• Late payment interest or charges may also be added in certain instances.

Driving an interstate vehicle? You can drive on Karnataka roads for up to 12 months without paying road tax, but beyond that, the vehicle must be re-registered and the applicable taxes must be paid.

Road Tax Refund in Karnataka

You can get a refund on the paid road tax, but only under specific conditions. You're eligible if:

• You've transferred your vehicle to another state permanently.
• Your vehicle has been permanently scrapped or de-registered.
• You've paid road tax twice inadvertently.

To claim a refund, apply to your RTO with documents (proof of migration, new registration, scrapping certificate, etc.). The process takes weeks to months, based on the case.

RTO Offices and Contact Details in Karnataka (Major Cities)

Following are some of the major RTOs in Karnataka:

For the full list, check RTO vehicle details in Karnataka here.

Conclusion

Understanding and paying your road tax in Karnataka is essential for hassle-free vehicle ownership. It’s not just a legal obligation but ensures you're contributing to better roads and safer transport infrastructure. Stay updated on rates and deadlines to avoid penalties. And if you’re ever in doubt or looking for verified RTO information, you can always visit CARS24 to find official information on RTOs and any type of car.