Form 38

What is Form 38?

Form 38 is the vehicle fitness certificate issued to a transport vehicle after it passes the inspection conducted by an authorised vehicle testing centre or an authorised vehicle inspector. It is usually issued after a physical examination of the transport vehicle. Based on the inspection results, the authority determines whether the vehicle is suitable for continued operation or requires repairs.

Who Issues Form 38?

Form 38, or vehicle fitness certificate for a transport vehicle, is issued by the registering authority or the concerned RTO after the vehicle passes the inspection conducted by authorised inspecting officers or vehicle testing stations.

What is the Difference Between Form 38 and Form 38A?

Take a look at the table below to understand the main differences between Form 38 and Form 38A:

What Details are Included in Form 38?

Form 38 includes the following details:

• Vehicle number
• Validity date of the vehicle fitness certificate
• Validity dates of the vehicle fitness certificate (in case of renewal)
• Signature and designation of the inspecting authority or holder of the Letter of Authority of the authorised testing station

How to Download Form 38?

Listed below are the steps to download the format of Form 38 from the Parivahan Sewa portal:

• Step 1: Visit the official Parivahan Sewa portal.
• Step 2: Go to the Informational Services tab.
• Step 3: Click on the Downloadable Forms option.
• Step 4: Tap on the Form 38 link to download its format.

How to Fill Form 38?

Here is how Form 38 is filled out:

• Step 1: The authorised inspector enters the vehicle's registration number accurately.
• Step 2: The inspector records the validity date of the vehicle fitness certificate.
• Step 3: The inspecting authority provides their signature and designation. If the inspection is conducted at an authorised testing station, the person holding the Letter of Authority signs and indicates their designation.
• Step 4: The inspector enters the date on which the vehicle inspection was conducted.
• Step 5: If the fitness certificate is being renewed, the inspector clearly mentions the applicable validity period.

Why is Form 38 Important?

To understand the importance of Form 38, have a look at the pointers below:

• Guarantees Vehicle Safety Standards: Form 38 allows authorities to confirm that transport vehicles adhere to necessary safety standards. This reduces the risk of unsafe transport vehicles being driven on public roads.
• Helps Identify Mechanical Issues: Sometimes, vehicle inspectors might identify issues with the brakes, lights, tyres, and various other vehicle parts. Once these issues are resolved, transport vehicle owners can get their vehicle fitness certificate by successfully completing the vehicle inspection.
• Ensures Compliance with Emission Norms: The transport vehicle's emissions are checked as part of the inspection before issuing its fitness certificate. As a result, only vehicles with emission levels within the prescribed limits can obtain a fitness certificate from the RTO.
• Enables Transport Authorities to Keep Precise Records: The RTO stores vehicle inspection information and maintains it in official records. This data may help authorities during future inspections of the transport vehicle or to check the vehicle's compliance with prescribed regulations.

Common Reasons for Non-Issuance of Form 38 (Fitness Certificate)

Here are a few common reasons for the non-issuance of Form 38:

• Missing Documents: If the transport vehicle owner fails to provide the required documents to the vehicle inspector, the fitness certificate may not be issued.
• Non-Compliance with Safety Standards: Vehicles that fail to comply with the safety standards outlined in transport regulations may not clear the inspection process.
• Poor Vehicle Condition: If the vehicle has major mechanical problems, such as faulty brakes or damaged parts, it may fail the inspection.
• Incorrect Vehicle Details: If the engine number, chassis number, or registration information does not match official records, the inspection will not be approved.