Air pollution from vehicles is a big issue, and in India, the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate helps manage this problem. If you own a car or bike, getting your vehicle’s PUC certificate is important to show that it meets government pollution rules. It’s also needed when you renew your vehicle insurance.
Overview of a PUC Certificate
A PUC certificate is an official paper that shows your vehicle’s pollution levels are within the limits set by the government. It comes after a test that checks how much pollution your car or bike emits. Only authorised centres can issue this certificate after testing your vehicle’s emissions.
Main Facts About the Pollution Under Control Certificate
| Name | PUC Certificate |
| Full Name | Pollution Under Control Certificate |
| Introduced by | IRDAI |
| For Vehicles | Cars & Bikes |
| Application Mode | Online / Offline Both |
| Official Website | https://puc.parivahan.gov.in/puc/ |
Why You Need a PUC Certificate
Your vehicle emits smoke, which adds to air pollution. The PUC certificate proves that your vehicle’s emissions are below harmful levels. It’s required by the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988. Driving without a valid PUC certificate can result in fines.
New cars get a PUC certificate valid for one year, while older vehicles usually get a certificate lasting six months (in Delhi, it is three months). If tests show your vehicle has pollution levels above the allowed limit, the certificate will be cancelled, and you must get a new one within seven days after repairs.
Main Benefits of Having a PUC Certificate
- Helps keep the air clean by controlling vehicle pollution.
- Required by law, so you avoid fines and legal trouble.
- Regular tests can show if your engine needs fixing before problems get worse.
- Needed when renewing your vehicle insurance.
What Information is on a PUC Certificate?
- Vehicle registration number
- PUC certificate serial number
- Date of pollution test
- Validity period of the certificate
- Emission test readings
How to Get a PUC Certificate Offline
- Go to the nearest authorised emission testing centre with your vehicle.
- The operator checks your vehicle’s emissions by placing a device in the exhaust pipe.
- After the test, the centre gives you the PUC certificate.
- Pay the fee and keep the certificate safely.
How to Get a PUC Certificate Online
- Visit the official Parivahan website: https://puc.parivahan.gov.in/puc/
- Click on the “PUC Certificate” tab.
- Enter your vehicle’s registration number, chassis number, and the verification code shown on the page.
- After entering the captcha code, click the “PUC Details” button.
- Your pollution certificate details will appear; download and print a copy for your records.
Vehicle Emission Test Procedure
- Bring your vehicle to the emission testing centre.
- Position your vehicle as required for testing.
- The operator inserts the testing device into your exhaust pipe.
- Turn on the vehicle to let the device take pollution readings.
- Test results show on the computer screen.
- The operator will issue the PUC certificate after recording your vehicle’s number plate.
- Pay the test fee and get your certificate.
PUC Certificate Fees
- Fees change by state, vehicle type, and fuel used, usually between Rs. 60 to Rs. 100 for cars and bikes.
- New vehicles get a one-year valid PUC certificate when purchased.
- After that, regular testing is required, and certificates usually last six months.
- If your vehicle fails the emissions test, the centre will immediately inform RTO authorities.
PUC Test Standards for Vehicles
| Vehicle Type | Hydrocarbon Limit (ppm) | Carbon Monoxide Limit (%) |
| 2 & 3 wheeled 2-stroke vehicles made after 31 March 2000 | 6000 | 3.5 |
| 2 & 3 wheeled 2 or 4-stroke vehicles made on or before 31 March 2000 | 9000 | 4.5 |
| 2 & 3 wheeled 4-stroke vehicles made after 31 March 2000 | 4500 | 3.5 |
| 4 wheeled vehicles made before Bharat Stage II norms | 1500 | 3 |
| 4 wheeled vehicles made as per Bharat Stage II, III or later norms | 750 | 0.5 |
Remember, keeping your vehicle’s emissions under control helps protect the environment and keeps you following the law. You can easily get a PUC certificate by following the steps above, either online or offline. Make sure your vehicle passes the pollution test to enjoy safer driving and cleaner air in 2025.