How to Check the Fitness Certificate of a Vehicle Online

“What is the validity of my vehicle’s Fitness Certificate?” If you are looking for an answer to this question, then here is the right guide for you!
The fitness certificate is an important document that confirms your vehicle is safe to drive on the roads. To make it effective, it is important to keep an eye on its validity and process to check it online. You will have to pay the penalty amount once it expires.
In this guide, we will walk you through the simple steps to check the fitness certificate of a vehicle online using the official VAHAN portal.
Fitness Certificate Validity
There is a certain validity of the Fitness Certificate after which you have to renew it. To understand it in a better way, here is the tabular explanation:
Type of Vehicle | Validity Period |
---|---|
Private Cars | 15 years from registration |
Two-Wheelers | 15 years from registration |
Commercial Vehicles (?8 yrs) | 2 years |
Penalties for Expired Fitness Certificate
If your Vehicle fitness Certificate expires and you are unable to renew it immediately, then you become liable for paying fines for it. Here is the list of them:
Offence Type | Penalty |
---|---|
First-time offence | ?2,000 to ?5,000 |
Repeat offence | Up to ?10,000 + possible imprisonment |
Late renewal fine | ?50 per day (as per MV Act, 1988) |
How to Check the Fitness of a Vehicle Online?
Follow these given steps to verify your vehicle's fitness status online in a simple way:
- Step: Visit the official VAHAN Vehicle Search Portal.
- Step: Log in using your ID or register if you are a new user.
- Step: Enter your vehicle registration number and the captcha code.
- Step: Click on the "Vahan Search" button.
- Step: On the next page, you will see your vehicle’s details, including the fitness certificate validity, registration info, and other key information.
Know - Download Fitness Certificate PDF of a Vehicle
Why Is It Important To Check the Fitness Certificate of a Vehicle?
fitness certificate (FC) of a vehicle is important to ensure that your vehicle is safe, roadworthy, and legally compliant. Here is why it matters:
1 Renewal
The scheme provides coverage for one year and is renewable annually.
2 Avoid Fines
Driving with an expired FC leads to heavy penalties and even imprisonment for repeat offences.
3 Legal Requirement
It is compulsory under the Motor Vehicles Act, especially for commercial vehicles.
4 Road Safety
A valid fitness certificate confirms that the vehicle has passed the necessary safety and emission tests.
5 Smooth Renewals
Regular checks help you stay updated and renew the fitness certificate on time.
6 Essential for Selling
A valid FC is needed if you plan to sell or transfer your vehicle.
Conclusion
Checking the fitness certificate of your vehicle online is an easy and helpful process. It lets you know whether your vehicle is still fit to run on roads and helps you avoid penalties for expired certificates. You just need to visit the VAHAN portal, enter your vehicle details, and check the status in a few clicks. Make sure to check it regularly so that you stay updated and drive without any legal issues or safety concerns.