Driving your own car gives you the freedom to travel according to your needs and convenience. However, you must adhere to certain traffic rules and laws while using your vehicle. For instance, in India, it is mandatory for you to have third–party car insurance while driving. Similarly, it is also compulsory that your carry a Pollution Under Control, or PUC, certificate. Let’s understand what a PUC certificate is and then look at PUC certificate benefits for vehicle owners.

What is a PUC Certificate?

As mentioned above, the word PUC stands for ‘Pollution Under Control’. A PUC certificate states the vehicle is safe to drive on Indian roads and is not contributing to rising pollution levels. A PUC certificate is only granted to a vehicle after it has passed the PUC test. The test is conducted to make sure that the vehicle emission levels are within limits set by the air pollutions norms.

As per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, carrying a PUC certificate is mandatory for vehicle owners while driving on the roads in the country. You require this certificate regardless of the type of vehicle you are driving, including LPG/CNG/diesel, etc. To ensure that you comply with the law, you can get your vehicle PUC tested at a nearby petrol pump or PUC testing centre in your locality.

What is the validity of a PUC certificate?

A PUC certificate is issued for a new car, after which the PUC test has to be conducted at regular intervals of 6 months. The validity of the PUC certificate is decided on the basis of the readings displayed in the test. In case your vehicle’s emissions are found to be hazardous, then the person–in–charge at the testing centre informs the Regional Transport Office (RTO) about the same and submits your vehicle registration number, as well.

PUC Certificate: Importance and Benefits

As mentioned above, the PUC certificate significance comes from the fact that, as per the Motor Vehicles Act, it is a mandatory document. Just like you always carry your motor insurance, registration certificate, and driving license while driving, you must keep your PUC certificate on hand too. As per Section 190 (2) of the Motor Vehicles Act, if you do not have your PUC certificate with you, you will be fined Rs 1000 for a first–time offence and Rs 2000 for a second–time offence.

In addition, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority has passed a mandate declaring a PUC certificate compulsory for vehicle owners who want to purchase or renew a car insurance policy. Apart from helping you abide by the law, it also helps you gauge if your car is in poor condition. This is because cars in a worn–down condition emit more fumes than those that are well–maintained.

Apart from these practical applications, one of the main PUC certificate benefits lies in its role in increasing environmental awareness. It not only begins conversations about using a car in an environmentally sustainable manner but also helps citizens contribute towards creating a healthier planet.

Now that you know more about the PUC certificate and its importance, make sure you carry yours while driving your car.

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.