Road Tax in Punjab: Fee Structure and Documents You Need

In India, owning a vehicle comes with its set of responsibilities and compliances. One such responsibility is paying road tax to drive on the road legally. Road tax in Punjab is a compulsory charge that the government levies on every vehicle owner to build and maintain the state’s road infrastructure.

Punjab has its own tax slabs and rules pertaining to road tax. In this blog, we will cover different Punjab road tax slabs, who must pay it, and how it is calculated.

Who Needs to Pay Road Tax in Punjab?

Road tax needs to be paid by every individual who owns a vehicle in Punjab. The government has made the payment of road tax mandatory on the purchase of a new vehicle, transfer of a vehicle from another state into Punjab, and use of commercial vehicles. This includes:

• Motorcycles and scooters
• Three-wheelers
• Private cars and SUVs
• Light commercial vehicles, trucks, buses, goods carriers
• Vehicles from outside Punjab used within Punjab for over 12 months

The Punjab government, however, exempts electric vehicles, agricultural tractors, and ambulances from paying the road tax.

How is Road Tax Calculated in Punjab?

Road tax in Punjab is calculated based on various parameters. Here are all the factors that influence the road tax in Punjab:

• Vehicle Type: The tax rates differ for two-wheelers and four-wheelers. Similarly, commercial or heavier vehicles incur higher tax rates.

• Engine Capacity: Often, vehicles that have a higher engine displacement incur higher tax rates. For instance, a 300 cc bike may be taxed more than a 100 cc bike.

• Fuel Type: Road tax in Punjab may vary according to the fuel variant of your vehicle. Diesel vehicles incur higher tax rates than petrol vehicles.

• Vehicle Price (Ex-showroom): Ex-showroom price is the vehicle’s base price before the registration, insurance, and other charges. The higher it is, the higher the tax percentage.

• Vehicle Usage: Private vehicles pay a lifetime tax, whereas commercial vehicles often pay an annual tax depending on load capacity and permit type.

• Age of the Vehicle: If you buy a new vehicle, road tax will be imposed on the full value. If you are re-registering your vehicle in Punjab, depreciation is applied.

• State of Origin: You must pay for road tax if the vehicle is from another state but has been in Punjab for over a year.

Road Tax Rates in Punjab

Here is how the road tax in Punjab varies for the different vehicle types:

Note: Private vehicles pay lifetime road tax, whereas commercial vehicles incur annual taxes based on the age of the vehicle, seating capacity, and the permit type.

How to Pay Road Tax in Punjab?

In order to pay the road tax in Punjab, you must know the complete RTO vehicle details in Punjab. Paying road tax in Punjab is easy with both online and offline options.

Online Method

• Visit the official website of the Punjab Transport Department or https://vahan.parivahan.gov.in.
• Select ‘Online Services” and select the “Road Tax” option
• Provide your ID and Password. Create an account if you are a new user.
• Fill in your vehicle registration number and chassis number.
• Make the payment and download the receipt.

Offline Method

• Visit your nearest RTO in Punjab.
• Fill out Form 20/21.
• Provide the required documents: vehicle invoice, address proof, ID, and PAN card for the vehicle over ₹10 Lakh.
• Submit the form and make the payment.

Penalty for Non-Payment of Road Tax in Punjab

Not paying your road tax in Punjab can lead to hefty fines, penalties, and vehicle seizure. Fines can range from ₹1,000 - ₹5,000. A delay in payment can also lead to increased interest on the overdue amount and difficulties while re-registering or reselling.

Road Tax Refunds in Punjab

You can get a refund for road tax in Punjab under certain circumstances:

• The vehicle is deregistered
• It is moved to a different state
• Double tax payment by mistake

RTO Offices in Punjab and Contact Details

Here is a list of all the RTOs in Punjab:

For a full list, visit the Punjab Transport Department portal. For more details, you can also check out the full list of RTO codes in Punjab.

Conclusion

To ensure legal and seamless vehicle ownership, it is important to understand the various aspects of road tax in Punjab. Staying updated about the tax rules will help you avoid any fines and penalties. By paying the road tax in Punjab, you can drive legally and seamlessly through the roads of Punjab for both personal and commercial reasons.