In Jharkhand, obtaining a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is mandatory for all vehicle owners to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. The PUC certificate verifies that a vehicle’s emissions are within the permissible limits set by the government, contributing to reducing air pollution. With several emission testing centres across the state, obtaining a PUC certificate has become more accessible. This guide will walk you through the steps to get a PUC certificate, how to find authorised centres, and how to check the expiry date of your PUC certificate in Jharkhand.
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What is a PUC Certificate?
A Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is an official document issued to vehicles that meet the prescribed emission standards set by the government. It certifies that a vehicle's exhaust emissions are within permissible limits, helping to reduce air pollution. The certificate is part of the government’s efforts to improve air quality by regulating vehicle emissions.
In India, a PUC test is carried out at authorised centres, and the certificate is typically valid for six months. It is required for all motorised vehicles, including two-wheelers, cars, and commercial vehicles. Regular checks ensure vehicles comply with environmental norms and help minimise pollution.
How to Obtain a PUC Certificate for Your Vehicle in Jharkhand
Obtaining a PUC certificate in Jharkhand is a simple process, and you can choose between online and offline methods based on your convenience. Here's how to do it:
1. How to Get a PUC Certificate Online
A. Through Parivahan Website
You can use the official Parivahan PUC website to check your PUC status or find an authorised testing centre.
Steps to Follow:
Visit the Parivahan PUC Portal.
Go to “Other Products and Services.”
Select the “PUC Certificate” tab.
Check the status of your current PUC certificate by entering your vehicle registration number, chassis number, and CAPTCHA code.
Locate authorised PUC testing centres near your area.
View details of the last emission test and check if renewal is required.
B. Through ACKO App
For a more convenient digital approach, the ACKO App offers a user-friendly platform to manage your PUC certificate.
Steps to Use:
Download the ACKO app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Sign up or log in to your ACKO account.
Navigate to the ‘PUC’ section within the app or website.
Enter your vehicle’s registration number to check the current PUC status.
Schedule an emission test through the app if renewal is required at an authorised PUC centre.
Access and store your digital PUC certificate once the test is completed.
2. How to Get a PUC Certificate Offline
You can also obtain a PUC certificate by visiting an authorised testing centre in person.
Steps Involved:
Locate a nearby authorised PUC centre using:
The Parivahan PUC website.
Local directories or service centres.
Gather the necessary documents, including:
Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC).
Insurance papers.
Driver’s licence (if required).
Drive your vehicle to the PUC centre.
Undergo the emission test, which uses a gas analyser or smoke meter.
You will receive the PUC certificate immediately if the vehicle meets emission standards.
Pay the nominal testing fee and ensure the certificate is valid for six months.
Both methods ensure compliance with Jharkhand’s vehicle emission norms. Choose the approach that best fits your convenience.
Types of Emission Tests Conducted for Your Vehicle in Jharkhand
The following tests are crucial for ensuring that vehicles on Jharkhand's roads comply with environmental regulations, contributing to cleaner air:
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Test: This test measures the engine's efficiency, air intake, and fuel combustion by analysing CO emissions, ensuring that the vehicle operates efficiently and minimises harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere.
Hydrocarbon Test: By detecting unburnt fuel, this test evaluates the engine's combustion efficiency, ensuring that the fuel is utilised optimally and reducing the presence of harmful hydrocarbon emissions in the environment.
Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Test: This test assesses the vehicle’s environmental impact by measuring CO₂ emissions, helping determine the carbon footprint of the vehicle and its compliance with eco-friendly standards.
Smoke Density Test: Specifically for diesel engines, this test measures black smoke emissions to evaluate combustion quality and ensure compliance with emission regulations, reducing the environmental impact of diesel vehicles.
Idling CO Test: This test analyses CO emissions when the engine is idling, identifying inefficiencies in stationary fuel combustion and promoting smoother, cleaner engine operations.
CNG/LPG Soundness Test: Designed for gas vehicles, this test detects potential leaks in CNG or LPG systems, ensuring emissions stay within limits and promoting safety alongside environmental responsibility.
Emission Test Procedure to Get a PUC Certificate in Jharkhand
In Jharkhand, obtaining a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate involves passing an emission test to ensure your vehicle meets environmental standards. Here's how the test is carried out:
Vehicle Inspection: The vehicle undergoes a physical inspection to ensure the exhaust system functions.
Attachment of Sensor: A sensor or testing device is attached to the vehicle’s exhaust pipe to collect emission data.
Emission Measurement: Using a specialised machine, emission levels of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons, and other pollutants are measured. The engine is tested at various RPMs to assess emission levels under different conditions.
Analysis and Results: The collected data is analysed to determine whether the emissions fall within permissible limits set by pollution control standards.
Issuance of PUC Certificate: If the vehicle passes the test, a PUC certificate is issued. It includes details such as the testing date, results, and validity (usually 6 months to 1 year). The certificate may be provided physically, emailed, or uploaded to an online portal.
PUC Certificate Renewal in Jharkhand
In Jharkhand, you must renew your Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate before it expires. The PUC system will notify you about the renewal date. Renewing your PUC certificate on time ensures your vehicle complies with emission standards and helps you avoid penalties.
PUC Certificate Validity in Jharkhand
A PUC certificate in Jharkhand is typically valid for twelve months from the date of issue. After one year, vehicle owners must have their vehicles re-tested to ensure continued compliance with emission standards. Regularly renewing the PUC certificate helps maintain environmental standards and avoid penalties for non-compliance.
Importance of Maintaining a Valid PUC Certificate
Maintaining a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is essential for environmental responsibility and legal compliance. A valid PUC certificate ensures your vehicle is roadworthy and does not contribute to air pollution. It is also required for car insurance renewals and vehicle registration processes. To avoid fines and penalties, ensure timely renewal of your PUC certificate.
Penalties for Driving Without a Valid PUC Certificate
First Offence: A fine of ₹1,000, along with the possibility of vehicle registration suspension until a valid PUC certificate is obtained.
Subsequent Offences: A fine of ₹2,000 for repeated violations.
Following your vehicle’s PUC testing schedule can avoid unnecessary penalties and contribute to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common question and their answer related to PUC Certificate in Jharkhand
Can a PUC certificate be created online?
A PUC certificate can only be issued by Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) and certified emission testing facilities. It indicates that obtaining a new PUC certificate online is not feasible. You can, however, verify the validity, expiration date, and other details of your current PUC certificate.
Can I download PUC in DigiLocker?
Yes, Select the names of your partners, such as the Ministry of Road, Transport, and Highways or the Ministry of Transport of your state, by clicking on Issued documents.
Can I retake PUC?
If the PUCt is due for renewal, PUC can be applied after it is reissued.
How many days is a PUC valid?
A PUC certificate is valid for six months from the date of issue. After that, you must renew it.
Can I check the status of my PUC certificate online in Jharkhand?
Through the Parivahan PUC portal or the ACKO app, you can check the status of your PUC certificate online. The Parivahan website allows you to view your vehicle's validity and renewal status by entering its registration number, chassis number, and captcha.
What occurs if the PUC expires?
Within a time frame, you must renew the vehicle's PUC certificate; otherwise, you risk paying heavy fines.