Does a Two-Wheeler Require a Pollution Certificate?

Posted on: Jun 12, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Does a Two-Wheeler Require a Pollution Certificate?

As a two-wheeler owner, apart from enjoying the rides, you need to follow some rules and regulations as well. Keeping in mind the rising pollution levels and the deteriorating air quality, the government has made it mandatory for all motorised vehicles to keep vehicular pollution under check. For this, measures like the PUC certificate have been implemented.

PUC Certificate

PUC stands for Pollution Under Control. This is an official document/certificate. Every motorised vehicle that undergoes an emissions test and the PUC certificate confirms whether the vehicle’s emissions fall within the government-mandated environmental standards. These emission tests are conducted at authorised testing centres.

When you take your bike to the centre, it is thoroughly checked through emission checks. Obtaining a PUC certificate is an indication that your engine is releasing gases that are well within the permissible limits set by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (Morth). The best part is that most of these centres are conveniently located near petrol pumps across India.

Does a Two-Wheeler Require a Pollution Certificate?

Just like your two-wheeler insurance, driver’s license and registration papers, carrying a valid PUC certificate is mandated. Rather, without a valid PUC certificate, you will not be able to renew your vehicle insurance. This has been done with the aim that vehicles of all kinds follow the norms and contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.

Note: On July 6, 2018, the IRDAI, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India, under the instruction of the Supreme Court, instructed that all general insurance companies must ensure that a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is produced at the time of motor vehicle insurance renewal.

PUC Certificate: More than Just a Legal Mandate

Yes, you must get a PUC certificate for your two-wheeler, and not having the certificate can lead to fines or legal action. However, you should not consider it an obligation. Making sure that your vehicle is well within the permissible pollution limit comes with a long list of benefits. Take a look:

1. Insurance Renewal Requirement

As per the government directive, you need the PUC certificate when renewing motor vehicle insurance. Without it, your bike insurance company will deny policy renewal. Not having a valid two-wheeler insurance can again bring penalties. So, even if you are opting for the third party bike insurance, it is highly recommended that you get it along with the PUC certificate.

2. You Get to Monitor Your Vehicle Health

Less Smoke = a Healthy Bike engine. Regular emission checks help detect engine issues early. An unusually high emission level can be a sign of malfunctioning components. Seeing it as an indication can allow you time for maintenance and avoid costly repairs.

Note: Regular wear and tear of your bike will not be covered even by your comprehensive bike insurance. Make sure you are proactive when it comes to its maintenance.

3. You are Responsible for the Environment

When you obtain the PUC certificate for your bike, it means that your vehicle emits pollutants within the permissible limits. By maintaining a valid PUC certificate, you contribute to reducing air pollution and protecting the environment. You get to contribute to cleaner air, reducing health risks like respiratory issues for you and others.

Note: Even if you have an e-scooter, make sure to get the PUC certificate and a suitable electric bike insurance.

How To Get a PUC Certificate?

Acquiring a PUC certificate for your bike is rather simple. You have the option of getting it online as well as offline. Getting the pollution certificate offline requires you to visit an authorised PUC certificate centre. The operator there will place the testing tool in the bike exhaust pipe and analyse the emissions. If your bike is within the limits, they will issue the PUC Certificate. You will have to pay a nominal charge for the same.

Now, let’s understand how you get the pollution certificate online.

1. Visit the Portal

Head over to Parivahan's official website or your respective state transport department’s website that supports online PUC services.

2. Log In or Sign Up

Use your existing login credentials or create a new account if you're a first-time user.

3. Enter Your Vehicle Details

Input your vehicle’s registration number and other required info like the engine and chassis number. If your vehicle is already registered, the system may autofill these details.

4. Book the Emission Test

If a test is due, schedule it at a nearby authorised PUC centre. Some state portals may even auto-schedule it for you.

5. Take the Test

Visit the PUC centre on your appointment date. Your vehicle will be tested for emissions.

6. Get Your PUC Certificate

If your vehicle passes, your renewed certificate will be uploaded online. You can easily download and print it.

7. Pay the Fee

Pay the applicable fee online using net banking, credit, or debit cards. The cost varies by vehicle type.

In Conclusion

Over the last few years, India has seen a mammoth growth in the number of vehicles on the Indian roads. This has made it all the more important for vehicle owners to be vigilant towards the rise in air pollution. Having the right 2 wheeler bike insurance and the PUC certificate ensures that you are adhering to the given regulations and are doing your bit.

Remember, getting a PUC certificate for your two-wheeler is a very simple and easy process that doesn’t take too much of your time. With proper care and regular services, and maintenance of your bike, you can help keep pollution in check.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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