Seatbelts may seem like a small thing, but they make a significant difference in saving lives on the road. That’s why India has tightened the rules with digital checks, heavy fines, and even the occasional relief drive to remind people why buckling up is non-negotiable.
From city-specific rules to universal payment options, and from technology-aided detection to periodic legal reliefs, each aspect is designed to enhance compliance.
Table of Contents
What is the Seat Belt Challan?
The seat belt challan constitutes an official penalty imposed when a driver or their passenger is caught driving without wearing a seat belt. This applies to the driver and all people seated in the front seat.
Most states, however, are extending this application to rear passengers as well. The imposition of the challan can either be done physically by a traffic officer or in absentia through AI-driven enforcement systems or a closed-circuit television camera network, set up across major Indian cities.
How Much is the Fine for Not Wearing a Seat Belt?
As of 2025, this penalty is ₹1,000 for all states in India, as far as the first offence is concerned:
- First Offence: Fine of ₹1,000 across major states (Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Rajasthan, etc.)
- For Repeated Offences: Fines can increase, generally doubling the amount. For example, ₹2,000 in Delhi, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Telangana; ₹1,500 in Kerala and West Bengal.
- Children Under the Age of 14 Years: If children are found not wearing a seat belt or a child restraint system, a fine of ₹1,000 is also applicable.
- Passengers: The fine will also apply to front-seat passengers, and in several states, it also applies to rear-seat passengers.
All the fines are mentioned under Section 194B of the Motor Vehicles Act.
What is the Breakdown of the State-wise Seat Belt Fine?
The state-wise breakdown for seat belt fines is given below:
| State | Seat Belt Fine (First Offence) | Repeat Offence | Includes Passengers? | Enforcement Type |
| Delhi | ₹1,000 | ₹2,000 | Yes | AI cameras, e-challan |
| Maharashtra | ₹1,000 | ₹2,000 | Yes | Digital surveillance |
| Gujarat | ₹1,000 | ₹2,000 | Yes | ANPR cameras, patrols |
| Kerala | ₹1,000 | ₹1,500 | Yes | Mounted cameras, seminars |
| West Bengal | ₹1,000 | ₹1,500 | Yes | Awareness drives |
| Rajasthan | ₹1,000 | ₹2,000 | Yes | Smart city tech |
| Telangana | ₹1,000 | ₹2,000 | Yes | Social media, ANPR |
| Tamil Nadu | ₹1,000 | – | Yes | E-challan systems |
| Chandigarh | ₹1,000 | – | Yes | Child restraint penalty |
How is the Seat Belt Challan Issued?
Seatbelt challans are issued by the traffic police, either actively or automatically, when violations are detected through surveillance by cameras. Here is how enforcement worked in 2025:
- Physical Enforcement: Traffic police conduct checks at signals, toll booths, and the highest-traffic corridors. If you are found driving without a seat belt, an instant challan is issued.
- Digital enforcement & e-challan: Automatically detect offenders through AI cameras and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems. Notifications through e-challans were sent via SMS and updated in real-time on the Parivahan portal and respective state transport websites.
- App-based Payment: Many cities offer the option to pay challans and track them through either the official Parivahan app or third-party portals like Paytm.
What Documents May Be Requested During a Check?
If stopped for not wearing a seat belt, you may be asked to present:
- Driving licence
- Vehicle registration certificate
- Valid car insurance policy
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
- Challan payment receipts (if you’ve paid previously)
Failure to provide the required documents can result in additional penalties.
How to Pay the Seat Belt Challan?
Paying your seat belt fine in India has never been easier. Motorists can settle e-challans online or offline:
1. Online Payment Process
- Step 1: Go to the official Parivahan e-Challan page at echallan.parivahan.gov.in.
- Step 2: Fill in your vehicle registration number and captcha.
- Step 3: All active challans, including the aforementioned seatbelt violation, would appear on your screen.
- Step 4: Pay via UPI/dedicated debit/credit card, or internet banking, and then download and save the payment receipt after a successful payment.
Most state transport websites have this system, and many major cities have their own local online payment services.
2. Offline Payment Process
- Step 1: Pay at the nearest traffic police office or designated bank.
- Step 2: Present the challan details and request a payment receipt.
What Happens if You Don’t Pay the Seat Belt Challan?
Failure to take cognisance of a seatbelt challan may lead to greater penalties:
- Penalty charges, surcharges, and higher fines; an increase in the amount to be paid arises with the delay in payment.
- Suspension of a driver’s licence can occur if you are unable to pay for multiple traffic tickets.
- Summons to appear in court; serious offenders may be brought to court, and registration of their vehicle would be provisionally withheld.
- Courts sometimes compel attendance at road safety workshops, where they evaluate manifestations of road traffic law among repeat offenders.
- Some insurers may refuse claims for accidents caused by you, especially if they have been issued repeated seatbelt fines.
If you have any pending minor seat belt challans, you may receive relief during major government Lok Adalat drives, where dues could be curtailed or even waived temporarily.
What are the Legal Waivers Through Lok Adalat?
The National Lok Adalat is a regular event where car owners may settle small traffic bills, such as seat belt fines, for less fines during government drives. Such events typically occur once a year. In other words, it means:
- Challans for minor offences (such as not wearing a seatbelt) can be settled for a reduced fine or completely waived off for a limited period.
- Serious offences are excluded from the benefits of this.
- Offline courts and online portals announce these dates in advance.
Nevertheless, the process is not a bypass; repeat or serious offenders (such as those involved in drunk driving, hit-and-run incidents, or habitual violators) are excluded.
What is the Legal Basis for the Seat Belt Fine?
According to Section 194B of the Motor Vehicles Act, fines for not wearing a seat belt are levied, stating: “Whoever drives a motor vehicle, or allows a front seat passenger to do so, without wearing a seat belt, shall be punishable with a fine of ₹1,000.”
The above rule applies to all vehicles, including private, commercial, taxi, and cab cars, whether driven by the driver or a passenger. Drivers of taxis and cabs are required to inform their passengers about the seatbelt rules. Failing to comply means a fine for both drivers and passengers.
This clause, in particular, was amended in 2019 and 2025, signifying an increased emphasis on the use of seatbelts by other occupants, including those in rear seats and children.
How Enforcement Has Changed in 2025?
Now equipped with high-tech traffic enforcement devices, Indian cities have never seen such a strict application of such laws:
- AI cameras, placed at busy intersections and expressways, automatically flag seatbelt violations.
- Dash cams in police vehicles provide real-time evidence during traffic stops.
- Automatic e-challan Systems: Immediate updates to the online portal for each offence detected by surveillance.
- Integration of Awareness Campaign: Cities conduct digital campaigns and roadshows targeting motorists to raise awareness of the importance of using seatbelts.
This means there is a minimal chance of escaping notice; the manual and automatic checks make it safest to comply.
Are there Fines for Rear Seat Passengers?
Yes. The Motor Vehicles Act encompasses all car occupants, and several metro cities are imposing fines on rear seat passengers who are found unbuckled. Policemen can issue separate challans to every unbelted person inside the vehicle. Some cities implement advanced camera systems that scan interior footage for rear-seat compliance.
How Can Motorists Avoid Being Fined?
Proactive measures include:
- Buckle your seat belt before starting the car.
- Ensure that all front and rear passengers have their seatbelts fastened.
- Inform friends and family about seat belt regulations.
- Any passenger under the age of 14 must be secured in an appropriate car seat.
- Monitor pending challans on the Parivahan platform once a month, especially when driving through high enforcement zones.
What Happens with Challans that are Wrongly Issued?
Mistakes can arise due to a system fault or a wrong penalty being imposed. In case you feel that the issued challan is incorrect:
- Check the Parivahan portal for the details regarding the images or video evidence.
- Raise an online dispute or visit the nearby Traffic police station.
- Please submit the necessary documents listed above (Photographs, receipts, etc.).
- Most of the resolutions are now completed within less than two weeks, but they still require dedication.
Most wrong challans are absolved at Lok Adalat drives as well.
What are the Insurance Implications of Seat Belt Fines?
When processing accident claims, major insurance providers may challenge whether seat belts were used. Repeating fines or persistent violations can result in:
- Higher policy premiums
- Denial of claims for major accidents that prove to be seat belt non-compliance
- Requirements to attend road safety seminars or provide proof of compliance
Belt compliance protects not only road safety but also your insurance coverage.
Summary
Seat belt challans in India are more than mere penalties; they are a nationwide endeavour to save lives and make roads safer. AI-led enforcement systems, e-challans, and stringent penalties for repeat offenders leave little scope for negligence on the part of the violators.
Passengers and drivers share equal responsibility; compliance means not only ensuring safety but also protecting oneself from legal and insurance hassles. By simply buckling up and encouraging everyone else to do so, you save on fines, protect your loved ones, and help foster a culture of responsible driving.
FAQs about Seat Belt Challan in India
Q. What is the fine for not wearing a seat belt in India?
The fine for not wearing a seat belt in India is ₹1,000 for the first offence across most states, with higher penalties for repeat violations in some regions.
Q. Can passengers be fined for not wearing a seat belt?
Yes, both front and rear seat passengers can be fined ₹1,000 if found not wearing seatbelts, as per the updated Motor Vehicles Rules.
Q. Is there a point system for seat belt violations?
Currently, there is no nationwide point system for seat belt violations, but repeated offences can lead to higher fines and licence suspension in some states.
Q. How can I pay my seat belt challan online?
Seat belt challans can be paid online via the Parivahan e-challan portal or state transport websites, using UPI, debit/credit cards, or net banking.
