Road Tax in Kerala: Road Tax Rates and Vehicle Registration Tips

Before you hit the road in Kerala in a new, pre-owned, or a vehicle registered with another state, there’s one unavoidable step that stands between you and the open highways, which is road tax. This isn’t just a fee, but it’s your vehicle’s official entry pass to drive legally across the state. Kerala’s road tax system is structured, specific, and worth paying attention to, if you wish to drive stress-free within the state.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about road tax in Kerala, from how it’s calculated based on vehicle type and cost, to the latest tax rates, documents required, registration process, how to make payments and just about everything you need to keep your ride compliant and carefree on Kerala’s roads.

Who Needs to Pay Road Tax in Kerala?

Every vehicle with a Kerala number must pay the road tax in Kerala, which includes:

• Private vehicle owners registering new vehicles.
• Commercial vehicle operators.
• Vehicle owners relocating from another state must re-register and pay road tax within a specified timeframe.

You must pay the road tax on time for a seamless and enjoyable commute in the state, or else you might be inviting legal trouble. 

How Is Road Tax Calculated in Kerala?

Calculation of road tax in Kerala is simple, but it depends on certain factors such as:

• Type of vehicle
• Engine size
• Ex-showroom price
• Fuel type
• Usage
• Vehicle age

Example:

If you purchase a car that runs on petrol and costs ₹11 lakh, and the road tax rate is 13%, you'll pay ₹1,43,000 at the time of registration. Always remember that this is just a one-time amount that you have to pay, and keep the receipt of successful payment safe with you. 

Road Tax Rates in Kerala

Here's an easy-to-understand table of road tax rates in Kerala across different vehicle types:

Important Notes

• Private vehicles are required to pay tax for their lifetime when they are registered.
• Commercial vehicles are required to pay tax yearly. The tax is calculated based on the number of passengers for commercial passenger vehicles. Commercial goods vehicles are charged according to the vehicle's gross weight.

How to Pay Road Tax in Kerala?

Road tax in Kerala can be paid online and offline: 

Online Payment:

1. Go to the official Kerala Transport Portal.
2. Select Online Services 
3. Visit the Vehicle Tax Payment section.
4. Enter your vehicle details.
5. Double-check the tax amount and then make the payment.

Offline Payment:

You can also approach the nearest RTO office in Kerala with the following documents:

• Original RC (Registration Certificate)
• Vehicle Invoice
• Identity and address proof
• Pollution Certificate
• PAN card (in case of high-value vehicle)

The RTO will calculate the payable tax and prepare a payment challan. 

Penalty for Non-Payment of Road Tax in Kerala

Kerala’s Motor Vehicles Taxation Act lays out clear penalties for late road tax payments:

• For annual or quarterly tax:
  • Up to 30 days late: 10% of the due tax amount
  • 31–90 days late: 15%
  • After 90 days: 18% plus the vehicle may be impounded or barred from use

• For one-time 15-year tax:
  • First-time defaulters: ₹100 fine
  • Repeat defaulters: ₹200 fine

Road Tax Refund in Kerala

You are entitled to receive a road tax refund in Kerala under the following conditions:

• Relocating to another place and need to get your vehicle registered in that state.
• You scrapped your vehicle and it cannot be used anymore.
• Change in vehicle category.

To request a refund, you must apply along with supporting documents, including a new registration certificate, bank statements, and proof of payment to the Kerala RTO.

Important RTO offices in Kerala

Below is a list of some important RTO offices you can come across:

For a complete list with addresses, check the RTO vehicle details in Kerala.

Conclusion

Road tax in Kerala is not only a legal requirement but also the key to driving peacefully and stress-free throughout the state. In case you have just purchased a brand new EV in Kochi or shifted a used SUV to this state, being aware of the tax brackets, schedule, and payment modes can save you time, fines, and the inconvenience of dealing with the law.

Have your documents at hand, collect your payment receipts, and always be one step ahead of compliance. Moreover, if you need any additional information about RTOs or vehicle transfer, CARS24 can help you every step of the way.