In Gujarat, vehicle owners must obtain a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate to ensure their vehicles comply with government pollution standards. Numerous petrol stations and workshops across the state are equipped with computerised systems to measure pollution levels and issue PUC certificates. Presently, there are 410 authorised Pollution Checking Centres for petrol and CNG vehicles and 231 centres for diesel vehicles. These centres throughout Gujarat provide a convenient way for vehicle owners to secure their PUC certificates and adhere to environmental regulations.
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What is a PUC Certificate?
A Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is an essential document issued to vehicles that comply with the government's prescribed emission standards. It verifies that a vehicle’s exhaust emissions are within acceptable limits, contributing to efforts to reduce air pollution. This initiative is part of the government’s strategy to enhance air quality by regulating vehicle emissions.
In India, PUC tests are carried out at authorised centres, and the certificate is generally valid for six months. It is mandatory for all motorised vehicles, including two-wheelers, cars, and commercial vehicles. Regular testing ensures vehicles adhere to environmental regulations and help minimise pollution levels.
How to Obtain a PUC Certificate for Your Vehicle in Gujarat
In Gujarat, getting a Pollution Under Control (PUC) licence is necessary to ensure your car meets the state's environmental rules. You can get this license in person or online, whichever works best for you. Here are the exact steps for each method:
1. How to Get a PUC Certificate Online
A. Through the Parivahan Website
On the official Parivahan website, you can easily locate testing centres in Gujarat and check your PUC status.
Steps to Follow:
Go to the main website for Parivahan PUC.
Go to "Other Products and Services."
Click the tab "PUC Certificate."
To check the status of your PUC certificate, simply enter your vehicle's registration number, model number, and the Captcha code.
If your PUC certificate is nearing expiry, locate an authorised PUC centre nearby to conduct the required emission test.
Review the details of your most recent pollution test to determine if it is time for renewal.
B. Through ACKO App
For a more convenient digital experience, the ACKO App streamlines PUC management.
How to Use:
Download the ACKO app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Sign up or log in to your ACKO account.
Access the ‘PUC’ section within the app or on the website.
4. Input your vehicle’s registration number to view the PUC status.
5. Schedule an emission test through the app at an authorised PUC centre if renewal is needed.
6. Access and securely store your digital PUC certificate once the test is complete.
2. How to Get a PUC Certificate Offline
You can also obtain a PUC certificate in Gujarat by visiting an authorised testing centre.
Steps Involved:
Locate a nearby authorised PUC centre using:
The Parivahan PUC website.
Local directories or service centres.
Prepare the necessary documents, including:
Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC).
Insurance papers.
Driver’s license (if required).
Drive your vehicle to the PUC centre.
Undergo the emission test, which involves using a gas analyser or smoke meter to measure emissions.
Receive the PUC certificate immediately if your vehicle complies with emission standards.
Pay the nominal testing fee and ensure the certificate is valid for six months.
Both methods ensure compliance with Gujarat’s vehicle emission norms. Choose the option that suits you best!
Types of Emission Tests Conducted for Your Vehicle in Gujarat
In Gujarat, several emission tests are conducted on cars and trucks to ensure compliance with environmental standards and reduce air pollution. These tests play a vital role in monitoring and controlling emissions, helping to improve air quality across the state.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Test: Measures the amount of carbon monoxide emitted from the exhaust, assessing the engine's efficiency in burning fuel and maintaining proper air-fuel balance.
Hydrocarbon Test: Evaluates unburned fuel in the exhaust, ensuring the engine burns fuel efficiently and operates within acceptable limits.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Test: Tracks the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere, providing insights into the vehicle’s environmental impact and contribution to global warming.
Smoke Density Test: Check the density of black smoke emitted from diesel vehicles to ensure emissions stay within permissible levels.
Idling CO Test: Assesses the carbon monoxide emissions when the engine is idling, ensuring the vehicle emits safe levels of pollutants even while stationary.
The soundness of CNG/LPG Test: Examines the CNG or LPG system for leaks, ensuring the system is secure and complies with emission norms while preventing hazardous leaks.
Emission Test Procedure to Get a PUC Certificate in Gujarat
To obtain a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate in Gujarat, your vehicle must pass an emission test to confirm it meets the required environmental standards. The procedure at a PUC testing centre typically involves the following steps:
Vehicle Inspection: Drive your car to a nearby authorised pollution testing centre. The test operator will guide you on where to position the vehicle for testing.
Emission Measurement: The operator will attach a specialised device to the vehicle's exhaust pipe. This device measures the levels of pollutants emitted into the air.
Test Execution: The vehicle’s engine will be run at varying RPMs (revolutions per minute) to simulate different operating conditions. A calibrated machine records the emission levels during these tests.
Result Analysis: The test results are analysed to determine if the emissions fall within the permissible limits set by the government.
Issuance of PUC Certificate: If the vehicle passes the emission test, the operator will record the results and issue the PUC certificate. The certificate includes details such as the test date, emission levels, and the certificate’s validity period, which is typically six months to one year.
PUC Certificate Renewal in Gujarat
In Gujarat, it is essential to renew your Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate on time to comply with emission regulations. The system provides timely reminders if your PUC certificate has expired or is nearing its expiry date. Regularly renewing your PUC certificate helps you avoid penalties and contributes to environmental protection. Stay proactive with your PUC renewals to keep your vehicle eco-friendly and roadworthy.
PUC Certificate Validity in Gujarat
In Gujarat, a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is valid for six months from the date of issuance. After this period, vehicle owners must be tested again to ensure compliance with emission guidelines. Timely renewal of the PUC certificate is crucial to adhering to environmental regulations and avoiding penalties. Regular PUC checks contribute to cleaner air and help reduce the environmental impact of vehicle emissions.
Importance of Maintaining a Valid PUC Certificate in Gujarat
In Gujarat, maintaining an up-to-date Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is a legal requirement and a responsible step towards protecting the environment. The PUC certificate confirms that your vehicle's emissions are within permissible limits, helping to reduce pollution and promote cleaner air. Regularly conducting pollution tests ensures compliance with emission norms, avoids penalties, and keeps your vehicle roadworthy and environmentally friendly.
Penalties for Driving Without a Valid PUC Certificate in Gujarat
First offence: For the first time, driving without a current PUC license will get you a ₹1,000 fine.
Subsequent offences: A fine of ₹2,000 for each violation of the PUC rules after the first one.
Keeping up with your vehicle’s PUC testing schedule helps avoid penalties and supports cleaner air and a healthier environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the important question and their answer related to PUC Certificate in Gujarat
Is home PUC possible?
No, home PUC testing is not possible. A valid PUC certificate is required to ensure your car meets emission regulations and helps reduce air pollution. However, renewing a PUC certificate online is not an option, as the emission test must be conducted at an authorised testing centre.
Where can I get my vehicle’s emission levels checked?
In Gujarat, your vehicle’s emissions can be tested at authorised pollution checking centres. These centres, often at petrol stations and mechanic workshops, perform the required tests and issue a PUC certificate if your vehicle meets the pollution standards.
How much does it cost to check for pollution?
The cost of a pollution check in Gujarat varies based on the type of vehicle:
Two-wheelers (including mopeds): ₹30
Three-wheelers (CNG/LPG/Petrol/Diesel): ₹60
Light Motor Vehicles (CNG/LPG/Petrol): ₹80
Light Motor Vehicles (Diesel) and all Medium & Heavy Motor Vehicles (Diesel/CNG): ₹100
What Happens If My Car Emits Smoke Despite Having a Valid PUC Certificate?
If your car is visibly polluting the air, even with a valid PUC certificate, the certificate may be revoked. You must rectify the issue and obtain a new PUC certificate within seven days. Additionally, violations of Section 190(2) of the Motor Vehicles Act may result in legal action.
When Is a PUC Certificate Required for a Vehicle?
For a new vehicle: 1 year after registration.
For BS III vehicles: Every 6 months.
For BS-IV vehicles: Every 1 year.
Do Euro-I, Euro-II, Euro-III, and Euro-IV cars need a PUC Certificate?
Yes, all cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans that meet Euro-I, II, III, or IV standards, and those that run on CNG or LPG must have a current PUC Certificate for one year after their initial registration.
