Understanding Different Types of Traffic Challans and Violations

Rahul Jha
Rahul Jha

Updated on: 2nd May, 2024 IST

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Navigating the roads comes with several responsibilities, and one crucial aspect is understanding the types of traffic challans. A challan is a ticket that follows when traffic rules are broken. Each challan corresponds to a specific rule, and understanding the many types of challan that are issued by traffic authorities can help you avoid fines. From improper parking to speeding, various traffic violations lead to different types of challan. 

In this blog, we will walk you through the different types of challans and violations, ensuring you understand the fundamentals, and enabling you to be a responsible road user.

Also Read : Process for Paying a Challan for Riding a Two-Wheeler without a Helmet

Types of Challan

The recent changes in The Motor Vehicles Act, of 2019 have brought about substantial increases in traffic violation fines. These more stringent rules mean that breaking traffic regulations comes with much higher penalties. 

To simplify this information, we've prepared a table showcasing various traffic challans and the corresponding fines for each. Take a closer look at the table below for a better understanding of the old penalties and the changes:

Traffic ViolationUpdated Penalty (From September 2019)Old Penalty
General Offence (e.g., improper number plate, illegal parking)First time: ₹500Second time: ₹1,500First time: ₹100
Second time: ₹300
Not Obeying Orders/Not Sharing Information₹2,000₹500
Not Following Road Rules₹500-₹1,000Nil
Driving Without a Valid Driving Licence₹5,000₹500
Driving an Unauthorised Vehicle Without a Valid Licence₹5,000₹1,000
Driving After Disqualification₹10,000₹500
OverspeedingLight Motor Vehicle: ₹1,000-₹2,000Medium Vehicle: ₹2,000-₹4,000₹400
Rash/Dangerous DrivingFirst time: Imprisonment of 6 months to 1 year and/or fine of ₹1,000-₹5,000
Second time: Imprisonment of up to 2 years and/or fine of up to ₹10,000
Nil
Driving Under the Influence of AlcoholFirst time: Fine of ₹10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 6 months
Second time: Fine of ₹15,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 2 years
₹2,000
Driving in Mentally/Physically Unfit StateFirst time: ₹1,000
Second time: ₹2,000
First time: ₹200
Second time: ₹500
Driving Without Valid Motor InsuranceFirst time: Fine of ₹2,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 3 months
Second time: Fine of ₹4,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 3 months
A fine of ₹1,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 3 months
Illegal Racing and Over SpeedingFirst time: Fine of ₹5,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 3 months
Second time: Fine of ₹10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 1 year
₹500
Driving Oversized Vehicle₹5,000Nil
Accident-related OffencesFirst time: Fine of ₹5,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 6 months
Second time: Fine of ₹10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 1 year
Nil
Driving Without a Valid Registration CertificateFirst time: ₹5,000
Second time: ₹10,000
Nil
Driving Without PermitA fine of ₹10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 6 monthsUp to ₹5,000
Using Mobile Phone While Driving₹5,000₹1,000
Overloading Vehicle₹20,000 (₹2,000 per extra tonne)₹2,000 (₹1,000 per extra tonne)
Overloading Passengers₹1,000 per extra passengerNil
Overloading Two-WheelerDisqualification of DL for 3 months and ₹2,000 penalty₹100
Not Wearing a Helmet While Riding Two-WheelerDisqualification of DL for 3 months and ₹1,000 penalty₹100
Not Wearing Seatbelt While Driving₹1,000₹100
Not Giving Way for Emergency Vehicles₹10,000 and/or imprisonment of 6 monthsNil
Offences Committed by JuvenilesImprisonment of 3 years and ₹25,000 penalty (Vehicle owner/guardian also guilty)Nil
Offence Related to Enforcing Officers (e.g., Offering bribe)Twice the penalty under the relevant sectionNil
Aggregator Offences (Licence-related)₹25,000-₹1 lakhNil
Using Horn in Silent ZoneFirst time: ₹2,000
Second time: ₹4,000
Nil
Travelling Without Ticket in Public Transport₹500₹200

Breaking Down the New Traffic Fines (Effective Since September 2019)

Remember, when you're driving, it's not just your safety but also your wallet that's on the line! Let's take a closer look at the recent changes in traffic violation fines according to the New Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019. This quick overview gives you the lowdown on the major updates:

  • No Licence, Big Fine
  1. If you're caught driving or riding without a valid licence, the penalty has gone up dramatically
  2. It used to be just ₹500, but now it's a hefty ₹5,000
  • No Insurance, No Way
  1. Not having valid motor insurance now comes with a higher penalty
  2. The fine is now ₹2,000 (or ₹4,000 for repeated offences), up from the old ₹1,000
  • Drunk Driving, Heavy Penalty
  1. Getting behind the wheel after a drink is now way more expensive
  2. For the first-time offence, you'll have to pay ₹10,000 and could even go to jail for up to 6 months
  3. If you do it again, the fine jumps to ₹15,000 and the jail time goes up to 2 years
  • Race and Speed, Pay the Price
  1. Racing on the roads or speeding now costs a lot more
  2. The fine has gone from ₹500 to ₹5,000, and you might be in jail for up to 3 months
  3. If you do it a second time, the penalty goes up to ₹10,000 and you could spend up to a year in jail
  • Juvenile Offences, Big Trouble
  1. If someone underage breaks the rules, it's not just them who's in trouble
  2. The new rules say that the vehicle owner or guardian could be fined ₹25,000 and the young offender might even be locked up for 3 years

The Bottom Line

In the ever-changing landscape of traffic fines, the New Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 has introduced stricter penalties to enhance road safety and discipline. These revisions aim to deter traffic violations by significantly raising fines for offences such as driving without proper documentation, being under the influence, speeding, and more. All road users need to stay well-informed about these changes to avoid hefty fines and legal complications. 

By adhering to the amended rules and regulations and exercising responsible driving habits, individuals can contribute to safer roads and a better traffic environment. Remember, keeping up with the rules is not just a legal obligation but a vital step towards safeguarding lives on the road. Stay safe! 

FAQs:

Q. What is a traffic challan?

A traffic challan is a penalty imposed on individuals who violate road rules or regulations.

Q. How are traffic challans issued?

Traffic challans are issued by law enforcement officers who observe violations, or through automated systems like cameras for red-light offences or speeding.

Q. Can I contest a traffic challan?

Yes, you can contest a traffic challan by following the procedure outlined by the respective traffic department.

Q. What are the consequences of not paying a challan?

Not paying a challan can lead to increased fines, legal actions, or even vehicle impoundment.

Q. Do traffic challans lead to licence suspension?

Certain serious violations can lead to licence suspension, but it depends on the severity of the offence and local regulations.

Online Traffic Challan Payment in Different Cities and e-Challan Status

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