In the face of increasing environmental concern regarding air pollution, keeping the environmental air clean is of utmost importance. One of the approaches adopted by the Indian government to ensure your vehicle contributes as little to air pollution as possible is to obtain a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. This document shows that your vehicle's emissions are under legal limits, thereby offering an environment that's healthier and cleaner for everyone. But how much is a new car pollution/PUC validity, and what are the consequences of ignoring it? Let’s delve into the details of four-wheeler pollution certificate validity, whether for a new or an old vehicle, and more. Keep reading!

A Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is an official document given out by authorised testing facilities after assessing your vehicle's emissions. This test evaluates the levels of hazardous chemicals, such as hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide, emitted by your vehicle's exhaust. If these levels meet the established limits, your vehicle is considered 'pollution-controlled', and a PUC certificate is given.

A PUC certificate includes the following information:

• PUC certificate serial number
• Vehicle information (License plate number)
• The date when the vehicle's emissions were tested
• Outcomes of the emission test
• PUC validity date

Yes, a valid PUC certificate is required for all vehicles in India, including new vehicles. Driving without a valid PUC certificate may result in penalties and fines issued by traffic authorities.

According to the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, a pollution certification for vehicles is required in order to lawfully drive on the road. This certificate confirms that you can lawfully drive a vehicle in India while adhering to environmental regulations.

The PUC Certificate can be obtained from licenced emission testing facilities within the country. The process of obtaining an emission test certificate comprises a thorough examination of the vehicle's emissions from the exhaust, with the results noted on the pollution certificate.

Due to variations in emission levels caused by usage and ageing, the government has set mandatory rules for periodic vehicle checks and the issuance of PUC certificates. The period of validity of PUC certificates for each of the old and new cars is as follows:

• For new cars, pollution certificate validity is for a period of one year, following which regular renewals are necessary. In some states, new car buyers are granted a six-month grace period from the purchase date to obtain a PUC.
• The PUC for old cars is valid for six months. To renew the PUC Certificate, cars must be checked for emission checks on a six-month basis following the first year of purchase. In the case of high emissions, the validity term may be shortened.

A PUC Certificate is a prerequisite to driving in India under the Motor Vehicles Act. Failure to comply with the rules and regulations may result in penalties according to Section 190 (2) of the Motor Vehicles Act.

• For the first offence, the penalty for failing to obtain a PUC Certificate is Rs. 1,000.
• A repeat offence results in a penalty of Rs. 2,000.
• In serious cases, it can result in imprisonment for three months.

It is important to note that punishments might differ from state to state.

There are two ways to obtain a PUC certificate for a vehicle: offline and online. It should be noted that the procedures outlined below will only result in an active PUC certificate. You cannot renew or apply for a new PUC certificate online.

• Visit the closest emission testing centre with your vehicle. Position the vehicle as per the instructions of the operator.
• The centre’s operator will analyse the exhaust emissions by putting a piece of testing equipment inside the exhaust pipe of the vehicle.
• After the test is completed, the test operator generates the PUC certificate, which includes the results of the emission test.
• Pay the necessary fees and obtain the pollution certificate.

A PUC certificate can be obtained from various locations, including:

• Fuel stations throughout the country are mostly outfitted with emission testing facilities.
• Authorised emission testing facilities equipped with computerised testing equipment.
• Licenced standalone emission testing facilities.

• Access the VAHAN portal via the Parivahan website.
• Go to the "PUC Certificate" section.
• Enter information such as the vehicle registration number, the last five characters of the chassis number, and the verification code.
• Tap on "PUC Details."
• You can then choose to either download or print the PUC certificate for your own records.

Whether your four-wheeler is new or old, you must have a PUC Certificate. Checking the validity of your car's pollution certificate is important for a variety of reasons:

• Government rules compliance: The PUC Certificate must be valid and in accordance with the Central Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. Government law stipulates that noncompliance can result in severe penalties, including a prison sentence.
• Clean air: When you maintain your vehicle’s emissions within the permissible levels, you contribute to an environment with reduced air pollution that is beneficial to your health and well-being.
• Improved fuel efficiency: One of the advantages of taking your vehicle for PUC testing is that any problems with fuel efficiency will be identified and thus help save money one could have used on petrol.
• Conscious driving: Holding a valid PUC certificate underscores your commitment to safe driving, environmental consciousness, and better future for sustainable living.

To conclude, possessing a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate which is legal standard for vehicles has more benefits towards environmental conservation. It also contributes towards observance of law, public health, and insurance cover requirements. Vehicle owners must ensure that their vehicles' PUC are renewed on time and that they meet emission standards set by the government to reduce air pollution and promote sustainable transportation practices. Furthermore, compliance with emission requirements is required for obtaining car insurance and commercial car insurance, highlighting the multiple significance of PUC certificates in vehicle ownership and operation.

Is a Pollution Under Control Certificate required for a new car?
Yes, a PUC certificate is required when purchasing a new vehicle. When you purchase a vehicle, the car dealers will usually issue you with a one-year pollution certificate.

Is the PUC Certificate recognized throughout India?
Yes, the PUC certificate has validity across the country.

Which types of vehicles necessitate a PUC Certificate in India?
All motor vehicles that use Internal Combustion Engines (LPG/CNG, diesel/petrol) must have a PUC Certificate.

Can a PUC certificate be obtained online?
You cannot get a PUC certificate online. To obtain the PUC Certificate, you must bring your car to an emission testing station. However, you can download the existing PUC certificate online through the VAHAN portal on the Parivahan website.

Is it possible to upload the PUC certificate into the DigiLocker app?
The option for uploading the PUC certificate is currently unavailable in the DigiLocker app. As a result, it is important to carry an electronic or printed version of the PUC Certificate whenever driving the vehicle.

Disclaimer: The above information is indicative in nature. For more details on the risk factor, terms and conditions, please refer to the Sales Brochure and Policy Wordings carefully before concluding a sale.