Your vehicle’s fitness certificate is due to expire; what do you do now?
If your vehicle is commercially used, this is one deadline you simply can’t afford to miss. Driving with an expired FC can result in fines, seizure, and legal action, and can also play havoc with your insurance validity. The silver lining? You can now renew fitness certificate vehicle online without going to the RTO unless inspection is necessary.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of renewing your fitness certificate using Parivahan or Vahan, including the required documents and what to expect during the inspection. It’s for anyone driving a truck, a cab, or a tourist bus.
Table of Contents
When Does a Fitness Certificate Need Renewal?
- New commercial vehicles: FC is valid for 2 years. After that, it needs yearly renewal.
- Private vehicles (15+ years old): FC renewal every 5 years.
You could check the expiry date on your FC or RC, or do a quick fitness certificate expiry check on the Vahan portal.
How to Renew a Fitness Certificate Online
The vehicle fitness renewal online process is now easy, clear, and prompt due to digital platforms such as Parivahan.
Step 1: Visit the Parivahan Portal: Go to https://parivahan.gov.in
Step 2: Click on ‘Online Services’ > ‘Vehicle Related Services’: You’ll be taken to the Vahan portal.
Step 3: Select Your State and RTO: Choose the RTO in which your vehicle is registered.
Step 4: Select ‘Fitness Renewal’: In the services menu, click on “Fitness Certificate Renewal” or Vahan Fitness Renewal.
Step 5: Enter Vehicle Details: Input your –
- Vehicle registration number
- Chassis and engine number
- Owner name
Step 6: Upload Required Documents: You’ll need to upload:
- RC (Registration Certificate)
- Existing fitness certificate
- Insurance certificate
- PUC (Pollution Under Control)
- Road tax payment proof
Step 7: Book an Inspection Slot: Your vehicle inspection is done at the RTO to determine roadworthiness. Select your preferred date and time of inspection.
Step 8: Pay the Renewal Fee: The fees typically range from ₹200 to ₹600, depending on the state and vehicle category.
Step 9: Track the Status: Following the submission, monitor your Parivahan FC renewal status using your application number.
What Happens During FC Renewal Inspection?
At the RTO or approved test centre, inspectors will inspect:
- Brake and steering response
- Emission levels
- Lights and horn
- Tyre condition
- Chassis and frame stability
If your vehicle passes inspection, the new FC will be reflected in the system and can be downloaded.
How to Renew Fitness Certificate Offline?
Still prefer to go to the RTO directly? Here’s how to do a commercial vehicle FC renewal offline:
Step 1: Visit Your Local RTO: Gather the fitness renewal form (Form 25).
Step 2: Submit Documents: Bring originals and photocopies of:
- RC, existing FC, insurance, PUC
- Address and ID proof
- Road tax receipt
Step 3: Pay the Fee at the Counter: You can pay cash or by card in most RTOs.
Step 4: Complete Vehicle Inspection: Staff members will lead you to the inspection area and check the vehicle.
Step 5: Receive the Updated FC: Once approved, you can get your stamped certificate or pick it up afterwards. You can also download it digitally via the portal.
How to Check Fitness Certificate Expiry?
You can simply conduct your fitness certificate expiry check online:
- Go to https://vahan.parivahan.gov.in
- Click on “Know Your Vehicle Details”
- Enter your registration number and captcha
- You’ll see FC expiry, tax validity, insurance, and more
Download Your Renewed Fitness Certificate
Once it is renewed, here’s how to obtain a copy:
- Visit the Vahan portal
- Go to “Print Fitness Certificate”
- Enter your application number or vehicle number
- Click submit and download the PDF
This electronic version is acceptable and can be produced during roadside checks or traffic stops.
Quick Reminders
- Apply for renewal at least 7–10 days before it expires
- Fix small problems (headlights, brake lights, worn tyres) before the inspection
- Don’t miss your PUC; it’s a must-have for the approval
- If your vehicle fails the test, you’ll need to reapply within 7 days after making the changes
Conclusion
Renewing your fitness certificate is one of the most important aspects of maintaining your vehicle as road-worthy and service-ready. With such facilities as vehicle fitness renewal online, who needs to procrastinate? Websites such as Parivahan and Vahan have streamlined the whole Parivahan FC renewal process, which is now easy and time-efficient.
So, whether you are running a fleet or a single vehicle, mark your renewal dates, complete the inspection, and stay compliant.
FAQs About Vehicle Fitness Certificate
When should I renew my vehicle fitness certificate?
The fitness certificate for a new commercial vehicle is valid for 2 years, and then renewal is required once a year. For old private vehicles beyond 15 years, renewal of the certificate is once every 5 years.
Can I renew my fitness certificate online without visiting the RTO?
Yes, you can renew your vehicle fitness certificate online on the Parivahan portal. However, your vehicle will have to, nonetheless, undergo a physical test at the RTO or authorized test centre.
What are the documents required to renew the fitness certificate?
You need to submit your Registration Certificate (RC), current fitness certificate, insurance certificate, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and receipt of payment towards road tax. Address and ID proof may be necessary for offline registration as well.
What is inspected during fitness certificate checking?
The inspection involves braking response and steering, emissions levels, lighting and horn operation, tyre condition, and overall chassis and frame stability.
How can I check my fitness certificate expiry date?
The validity of their fitness certificate can also be ascertained online on the Vahan portal by entering their vehicle registration number on the page labeled “Know Your Vehicle Details”.
