RTO Rules For Electric Two-Wheelers: A Complete Guide

The RTO has different rules for different types of electric vehicles based on how well they work. These are the main types of electric two-wheelers:

1. Low-Speed EVs:

The motor must have less than 250W of power and can't go faster than 25 km/h. It's not required by law to register, license, or insure these, but it's still a good idea to get basic coverage in case something goes wrong.

2. High-Speed EVs:

More than 250W of motor power or more than 25 km/h of speed. Some of the things that the RTO wants them to have are registration, a legal license, and insurance.
If you own a high-speed bike like a performance e-bike or a premium scooter, you should get comprehensive bike insurance to protect it from loss, fire, and crashes.

There are two types of electric two-wheelers, each with its own licensing needs. To follow the law, you must know what kind of automobile you have.
1. You don't need a licence to drive a low-speed EV. This makes them appealing to youth and older people who use electric bikes for short trips.
2. For high-speed EVs, you need an active licence for a two-wheeler. Riding such a vehicle without one is against the law, and if you get into an accident, your scooter insurance might not cover it.
You might not be legally responsible for third parties if you don't have a current license. This could mean paying for small losses you cause to other people out of your pocket.

As per RTO norms:
1. Registration is mandatory for high-speed electric two-wheelers.
2. Low-speed variants are exempt, but voluntarily registering them is still possible.
To register your EV, you must:
1. Submit Form 20 and other relevant documents to the local RTO.
2. Pay applicable road tax (often waived or reduced for EVs).
3. Receive a Registration Certificate (RC) and green number plate.
Don't miss our helpful blog post on All About RTO Form 20 and the Registration Process if you don't know how to fill out Form 20. The step-by-step instructions in this guide are easy to understand.
Even though it might seem like a lot of work, registering your EV is essential so that insurance companies can find it. These make it easy to file claims for damage protection or bike insurance.

All electric two-wheelers must display green number plates:
** 1. Private EVs:** White text on green background
** 2. Commercial EVs:** Yellow text on green background
This colour coding lets you tell EVs from regular cars. It helps the government offer perks just for EVs, like not having to pay tolls or parking fees.
Not having the correct license plate type could get you in trouble and affect your insurance reviews in case of an accident. To comply with third party bike insurance regulations, ensure the number plate on your electric vehicle (EV) always matches the vehicle's usage group.

Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) say that the RTO has to set safety guidelines. Check that your electric two-wheeler has these things:
1. Working headlight, tail light, indicators
2. Functional horn and rear-view mirrors
3. Reflectors and brake lights
4. Clear visibility of the registration number
5. Helmet use (mandatory for riders and pillion on high-speed EVs)
Lack of proper safety equipment, like ABS or lights, could make your Ola electric scooter insurance less effective, especially if you file a claim for damage or an accident.

Batteries and motors must meet the Automotive Industry Standards (AIS), which say things like:
1. AIS-156: For battery pack design, fire resistance, and thermal safety
2. AIS-038 (Rev 2): For high-voltage traction battery packs
If you choose modified batteries that aren't approved, you may not only put your safety at risk, but your bike insurance online coverage may also be cancelled. Manufacturer-approved parts are usually required by insurance.
Also, read your policy terms carefully because some may not cover you if you modify your EV beyond what the maker suggests.

Non-compliance with RTO rules leads to:
1. ₹5,000 fine for riding unregistered high-speed EVs
2. ₹2,000 fine for lack of a valid licence
3. ₹1,000 for riding without a helmet
4. Penalties or non-settlement of claims without electric bike insurance
Also, third-party claims from accidents on the road could lead to court action or the seizure of your car if you don't have insurance.
It's possible that a low-speed EV doesn't need insurance by law, but getting comprehensive bike insurance helps cover damage from accidents, theft, and fire. It helps you feel safe while you're moving.

Even though there aren't any clear RTO laws about how to charge, vehicles should follow safety rules:
1. Use manufacturer-recommended chargers.
2. Avoid prolonged overnight charging near flammable areas.
3. Never use damaged or unauthorised extension boards.
Insurance companies look at the state of the EV at the time of the accident. Any signs of unsafe charging can change the result of a scooter insurance claim.
Furthermore, RTO requires that parked cars do not block public walkways. Some places will fine you if your charging cords cross a pathway.

Follow these rules to avoid delays or potential trouble:
1. Check your EV's speed and power ability before thinking it doesn't need a licence.
2. Quickly register high-speed EVs and always carry the RC.
3. Put on green license plates that are specific to your car.
4. Even if you only ride a bike slowly, you should always get insurance. It protects you in real life.
5. Make sure there are regular safety checks and maintenance to keep the policy legal.
6. Wear helmets at all times, even if it's not required; it's a key part of the claim process.

1. Are PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificates required for electric two-wheelers?

2. Can I move the insurance from my petrol bike to my electric bike?

3. Does insurance cover getting new batteries?