Road tax is essential for motor vehicle ownership in India, and Maharashtra follows a well-defined framework for its collection. As one of the most industrialised and urbanised states, Maharashtra experiences a large volume of vehicular traffic. Thus, road tax serves as a crucial source of revenue for maintaining and developing its transport infrastructure. This tax is payable on all vehicles operating on public roads in the state.
In Maharashtra, road tax varies based on vehicle type, price, fuel type, and age. It is essential to know how road tax is calculated and paid when registering a new vehicle or transferring ownership. Understanding the regulations prevents penalties and ensures hassle-free compliance.
Keep reading to learn all about Maharashtra road tax—from rates and calculations to the payment process, penalties, and exemptions.
What is Road Tax and Why is it Important?
Road tax is a compulsory payment collected by state governments in India on all motor vehicles operating on public roads. Depending on the type of vehicle and its usage, it can be a one-time or periodic payment made during vehicle registration or renewal.
The importance of road tax lies in its support for the road development system, which directly impacts the safety and efficiency of transportation. It regulates vehicle usage, promoting responsible ownership and environmental awareness by imposing higher charges on older or polluting cars.
Timely payment of road tax ensures that your vehicle complies with the law and helps avoid penalties or prosecution.
Road Tax Rules in Maharashtra
Understanding the road tax rules in Maharashtra is essential for every vehicle owner, as these regulations determine the payment amount and the payment time. Here is a detailed look at the key rules and provisions you must know:
Applicability of Road Tax in Maharashtra
Maharashtra road tax is compulsory for all vehicles registered under the Maharashtra Transport Department. The tax varies according to the type of vehicle:
- New Vehicle Registration: Road tax must be paid when registering a new vehicle in Maharashtra.
- Interstate Vehicle Transfer: If an interstate vehicle is permanently relocated to Maharashtra, the owner must re-register the vehicle and pay the relevant Maharashtra road tax. Vehicles from other states used in Maharashtra for more than the stipulated period (usually 11 months) must pay road tax per state rules.
- Commercial and Private Cars: Both commercial and private vehicles are taxed; however, commercial vehicles typically have different tax slabs based on usage, weight, seating capacity, and other factors.
- Temporary Registration: Vehicles registered temporarily in Maharashtra also incur a temporary road tax, which depends on the usage period.
- Electric and Eco-friendly Cars: Under green mobility plans, the state offers concessions or exemptions for electric cars (EVs).
- Imported Cars: Imported vehicles are taxed based on engine capacity (cc) and the value of the import.
- Vehicle Class & Type: Road tax varies depending on whether the vehicle is a two-wheeler, four-wheeler, heavy vehicle, etc.
Factors Affecting Road Tax Rates
Maharashtra calculates road tax based on several essential parameters, each contributing to the total amount payable by vehicle owners:
- Vehicle Type: Commercial vehicles pay higher road taxes than personal vehicles due to their regular usage, increased road wear, and commercial operations.
- Fuel Type: Diesel vehicles generally incur higher taxes than petrol and CNG vehicles because of their greater emission levels. On the other hand, electric vehicles benefit from complete exemptions from road taxes under the state’s EV policy to promote cleaner travel.
- Engine Capacity: Vehicles with larger engine displacements are taxed more due to their greater environmental impact and wear on infrastructure. This is notably true for premium motorcycles and luxury cars.
- Vehicle Price: The road tax in Maharashtra is calculated as a percentage of the vehicle’s invoice value. Consequently, more expensive vehicles bear significantly higher tax levies.
- Vehicle Age: Older cars may face additional charges, such as a green tax upon re-registration (typically after 15 years), to discourage the continued use of high-emission vehicles and encourage replacement with cleaner alternatives.
Lifetime Tax, Green Tax, and Exemptions
- Lifetime Tax: Maharashtra requires owners to pay a one-time lifetime road tax at registration. This tax typically covers the vehicle for 15 years, eliminating the need for annual payments unless the vehicle is sold or re-registered in another state.
- Green Tax: When the fitness certificate is renewed, a green tax is imposed on older vehicles—specifically, petrol vehicles over 15 years old and diesel vehicles over 10 years old. This tax aims to deter the operation of high-emission vehicles and promote cleaner alternatives.
- Exemptions: Under the Maharashtra Electric Vehicle Policy 2025, electric vehicles (EVs) enjoy complete exemptions from toll fees on certain expressways and are free from road tax and registration fees.
How to Calculate Road Tax in Maharashtra?
Calculating road tax in Maharashtra involves understanding the various factors influencing the tax amount. Check out the section below for further details:
Parameters Used for Road Tax Calculation
The parameters generally used for Maharashtra road tax calculation are:
| Factors | Description |
| Vehicle Type | Differentiates between private and commercial vehicles |
| Engine Capacity | Higher engine displacement (cc) often results in higher tax slabs. |
| Fuel Type | Petrol, diesel, CNG, and electric vehicles have different tax rates; EVs often get exemptions. |
| Vehicle Age | Older vehicles may incur a green tax to encourage the adoption of eco-friendly transport. |
| Vehicle Price | Road tax is often calculated as a percentage of the vehicle’s purchase price. |
| Vehicle Weight | Heavier vehicles generally attract higher taxes due to increased road impact. |
Sample Road Tax Calculation for Different Vehicles
Here’s a table with a practical example showing how road tax varies for different types of cars based on the latest Maharashtra road tax rules:
| Vehicle Type | Vehicle Price (₹) | Tax Rate (%) | Calculated Road Tax (₹) |
| Petrol Car | 10,00,000 | 11% | 1,10,000 |
| Diesel Car | 10,00,000 | 13% | 1,30,000 |
| CNG Car | 10,00,000 | 7% | 70,000 |
| Electric Vehicle | 10,00,000 | 0% | 0 (Exempt) |
How to Pay Road Tax in Maharashtra?
The various methods of paying the Maharashtra road tax are listed below:
Online Payment Process
Paying your road tax online in Maharashtra via the Parivahan portal is easy. Follow these simple steps:
- Visit the Parivahan Portal: Go to https://vahan.parivahan.gov.in.
- Navigate to Vehicle Services: Under the ‘Online Services’ menu, select ‘Vehicle Related Services’.
- Select Maharashtra as Your State: Choose ‘Maharashtra’ from the drop-down list.
- Enter Vehicle Details: Input your vehicle’s registration number and proceed.
- Authenticate with OTP: Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- Verify Vehicle Information: Confirm your vehicle’s details and ensure they are correct.
- Proceed to Payment: Select ‘Pay Tax’ and choose the applicable tax period.
- Make the Payment: Pay the required amount using your preferred payment method.
- Download Receipt: After successful payment, download and save the receipt for your records.
Offline Payment Process
Paying road tax offline in Maharashtra requires visiting your Regional Transport Office (RTO). Following is a brief step-by-step guide to assist you through the process:
- Find Your Nearest RTO: Identify the RTO jurisdiction where your vehicle is registered.
- Gather the Required Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents.
- Visit the RTO: Go to the RTO with your vehicle and documents.
- Submit Documents and Pay Tax: Fill out the necessary forms and pay the road tax amount. Payments can typically be made via cash, demand draft, or cheque.
- Obtain Receipt: Collect the receipt as proof of payment.
Documents Required for Road Tax Payment
To pay the Maharashtra road tax, ensure you have the following documents:
- Registration Certificate (RC): Proof of vehicle ownership.
- Insurance Certificate: Valid vehicle insurance as per the Motor Vehicles Act.
- Invoice Copy: Original purchase invoice of the vehicle.
- Proof of Address: Documents like a Passport, Utility Bills, or a Voter ID card.
- Form KMVT-14: Required if re-registering a vehicle from another state.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): Necessary if transferring ownership or re-registering from another state.
Penalties for Late Payment of Road Tax in Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, prompt road tax payment is imperative to avoid fines. Below is what you should know:
| Offender Type | Penalty Details |
| First-time Offenders | Minimum fine of ₹300; may increase to the full amount of the one-time tax payable for that vehicle category. |
| Repeat Offenders | The fine is increased to twice the amount of the one-time tax payable. |
| Delay Beyond 30 Days | Interest or additional penalties may be levied depending on the delay period. |
| Non-payment Consequences | The vehicle may face legal action, including seizure or cancellation of registration. |
To avoid these penalties, ensure that road tax is paid within 30 days of vehicle registration.
Refunds and Road Tax Transfer Rules in Maharashtra
The refunds and road tax transfer rules in Maharashtra are explained below:
Conditions for Road Tax Refund
Here are the primary conditions for a road tax refund in Maharashtra:
- Road tax refund is generally applicable when a vehicle is relocated and re-registered in another state.
- The original owner has to fill out a formal refund application with the RTO in Maharashtra.
- Refunds are given when the road tax paid in Maharashtra is higher than the amount payable in the new state.
- Vehicles bought by new buyers are not eligible for a refund.
- Refund requests must be initiated within six months of the re-registration in the new state.
- Refunds are worked out based on the remaining valid period of the original paid tax.
- Some fees, such as smart card fees, are non-refundable.
Procedure for Applying for a Road Tax Refund/Transfer
To claim a road tax refund in Maharashtra, vehicle owners must adhere to a systematic procedure after relocating their vehicle to another state and completing its re-registration there. Here is a step-by-step process:
- Re-register and Get NOC: Get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your Maharashtra RTO and complete vehicle re-registration in the new state.
- Collect Documents: Original & new RCs, insurance with new registration, PUC, address proof, chassis imprint, Form 16/DT, NOC, tax receipts, and bank details.
- Submit Application: Lodge the refund request with all documents at your original Maharashtra RTO.
- RTO Verification: RTO verifies documents and computes the refundable amount (excluding non-refundable fees).
- Receive Refund: The approved value is credited to your bank account, usually in a few weeks.
Comparison: Road Tax in Maharashtra vs Other States
Here’s a simplified comparison table of road tax in Maharashtra vs other states, based on a ₹10 lakh private petrol car and corresponding electric vehicle (EV) tax status:
| State | Road Tax for ₹10 lakh Petrol Car | Electric Vehicle Tax |
| Maharashtra | ₹1,10,000 (11%) | Exempted (100%) |
| Karnataka | ₹50,000 (5%) | Exempted |
| Tamil Nadu | ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,50,000 (10–15%) | Exempted (100%) till 2025 |
| Gujarat | ₹60,000 (6%) | Exempted (100%) |
Note: Road tax rates are approximate and may vary based on specific vehicle details and RTO assessments. Always consult the respective state’s RTO for precise calculations.
Maharashtra road tax is crucial in financing the state’s transport facilities and development projects. Taxation differs based on vehicle type, engine capacity, and fuel type, with electric vehicles being fully exempted to promote eco-friendly mobility.
Understanding how to calculate road tax and making timely payments allows car owners to escape penalties. The availability of convenient online payment options further simplifies compliance, making it easier for citizens to fulfil their tax obligations.
Additionally, staying informed about Maharashtra’s road tax policies ensures hassle-free vehicle ownership and supports cleaner, safer roads across the state.
FAQs About Maharashtra Road Tax
Q. What is the road tax rate in Maharashtra for private cars?
Road tax varies with fuel and vehicle price: petrol vehicles pay 11-13%, diesel 13-15%, and CNG 7%. Under Maharashtra’s EV policy, electric vehicles are exempted from road tax entirely to encourage cleaner transport.
Q. Is there a road tax discount for electric vehicles in Maharashtra?
Maharashtra’s electric vehicles are 100% exempt from road tax and registration charges. As part of the government’s scheme to promote electric cars, they are also offered an exemption on toll fees on major expressways and a subsidy of up to 15% on the purchase price.
Q. Can I pay road tax online in Maharashtra?
Yes, Maharashtra provides online road tax payment through the Maha Parivahan portal. Owners must upload documents for registration, insurance, and proof of address. This online facility makes payment easy without requiring physical visits to RTO offices.
Q. What happens if I delay road tax payment in Maharashtra?
Delaying road tax payment beyond 30 days results in a fine starting at ₹300 or the applicable tax amount, whichever is higher. Repeat defaulters may face doubled fines and possible vehicle impoundment, emphasising the importance of timely tax payment.
Q. How is road tax calculated for commercial vehicles in Maharashtra?
Road tax for commercial vehicles depends on factors like vehicle type, engine capacity, weight, seating capacity, fuel type, and usage purpose. Rates vary accordingly, and they are governed by the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Taxation Act, 1968, which ensures fair taxation based on vehicle characteristics.
