Importance of PUC Certificate for Bike Insurance Renewal

What is PUCC in Bike?

PUCC, or Pollution Under Control Certificate, is an official document that certifies your two-wheeler meets the prescribed emission standards set by the Government of India. It is issued after an emission test at authorized centres, usually located at petrol pumps. Just like third-party bike insurance, this certificate is mandatory in India and ensures that your bike is legally fit for the roads.

The PUC certificate contains the following details:

• Serial number of PUCC
• PUC test validity date
• Emission test reading
• Registration number of your bike/scooter
• Date of the emission test

Importance of PUC Certificate for New Bikes

A Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is a mandatory document for all vehicles, including new bikes, as per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

Here's why you should obtain a PUCC for your new bike:

• Legal Compliance: As per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, carrying a valid PUC certificate is mandatory while riding your bike on public roads. Failure to do so can result in fines or penalties.
• Bike Insurance Renewal: An updated PUC certificate is required at the time of bike insurance renewal, as insurance companies need proof that your two-wheeler meets emission norms.

Why is the PUC Test Necessary?

Two-wheelers have been major contributors to air pollution over the past two decades. Their engines emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbon, and various other pollutants, which negatively impact both the environment and public health. The PUC test helps track your bike's emission levels, ensuring it is not releasing excessive pollutants into the air.

In fact, it is mandatory for all two-wheelers in India to undergo the PUC test and get a Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC). Failing to carry a valid PUCC while riding a two-wheeler on the road can lead to a hefty fine.

Permissible Level for PUC Certificate for Two-wheelers in India

Below mentioned are the permissible levels of pollution that an old two-wheeler can emit:

Source: Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI)

How Can You Get a PUC Certificate for Your Bike?

Follow the below-mentioned steps to obtain a PUC certificate for a two-wheeler:

1. PUC Certificate for New Bike

   If you have purchased a new vehicle, then your bike dealership will arrange the PUCC for it.

2. PUC Certificate for Old Bike

   If you have an old bike or want to renew your PUC certificate, then follow the steps below:

   • Step 1: Find an authorised emission testing centre in your city. Usually, it is available at petrol pumps, or you can check a licensed RTO-approved PUC centre online by visiting the Parivahan platform.
   • Step 2: Once you find the authorised PUC centre, take your two-wheeler there and get it tested by the mechanic. They will insert the emission testing tube into the exhaust pipe of the bike to check the emission levels.
   • Step 3: A PUC certificate of your vehicle will be generated electronically, and you have to pay a nominal fee to issue it.

Cost of PUC Certificate

To issue a PUC certificate, you have to pay a nominal fee that varies from ₹ 60 to ₹100. However, it might differ from one state to another and vehicle to vehicle depending on the fuel type.

What is the Validity Period of a PUC Certificate?

When you buy a two-wheeler, the bike dealership will provide you with the PUC certificate, which will be valid only for 1 year. After that, you must get it renewed at any authorized emission testing centre. The renewed PUCC will be valid for 6 months. Hence, you are required to renew your PUC certificate after every 6 months.

Benefits of Having a Valid PUC Certificate

The PUC certificate is as essential as your DL, 2-wheeler insurance policy, and RC of the vehicle. Here are a few benefits associated with having an active PUCC:

1. Mandatory for Bike Insurance Renewal

   An updated PUC certificate is a mandatory document required during the two-wheeler insurance renewal.

2. Protects The Environment

   The real picture of the global environment is in front of everyone, and a small contribution to this is pollution. Carrying a PUC certificate along with your two-wheeler insurance reflects that you care for the environment. Therefore, as a responsible citizen, take a test of your two-wheeler to check the pollution eminent levels and ensure that it follows the permitted emission levels.

3. Awareness of Your Vehicle's Condition

   If you check the health of your vehicle, you will stay aware of its fluctuating pollution levels. You can take it for servicing at regular intervals. If you notice a higher level of pollution emission, get it checked instantly with the mechanic to avoid any further issues. The regular check-up, testing, and updating of the PUC certificate will help you maintain the condition of your two-wheeler.

4. Law Abiding Citizen

   Carrying a PUC certificate makes you a law-abiding citizen. Following the rules set by the Government of India helps you avoid penalties that may incur if you do not obey them.