Rajasthan has an extensive highway network that plays a vital role in enhancing tourism by providing strong connectivity with both northern and southern states. All vehicles using roads within Rajasthan, regardless of whether they are registered within the state, are required to pay road tax to the state government.
The tax is applied in line with the provisions outlined in the Rajasthan Motor Vehicles Taxation Act, 1951. This guide provides comprehensive insights into Rajasthan road tax, covering its calculation, payment methods, late payment penalties, key rules, and available exemptions.
What is Road Tax and Why is it Important?
Paying road tax is a legal obligation for all vehicle owners in Rajasthan who wish to use their vehicles on public roads. This tax plays a vital role in funding the upkeep and development of the state’s road network.
The Rajasthan road tax rate varies on the basis of whether the vehicle runs on petrol, diesel, or CNG. Understanding how road tax is calculated can help you make better financial choices when buying a car in Rajasthan.
Importance of Road Tax
Road tax plays a vital role in owning a vehicle in India. Here is why it is levied and how the funds are utilised:
- Maintenance of the Road Network
India has one of the largest road networks in the world, stretching across the entire country. Road tax plays a vital role in funding the repair and upkeep of this widespread infrastructure.
- Provision of Basic Road Amenities
The tax revenue supports the installation and upkeep of essential features like:
- Street lighting
- Road signage
- Traffic signals
- Funding Safety and Emergency Services
Road tax contributes to the implementation of safety measures for motorists. It also funds emergency services such as on-the-spot first aid in case of accidents.
- Expansion and Modernisation of Roads
The money collected is used to widen existing roads and construct new ones. It also supports the upgrading of highways and expressways to meet rising traffic demands.
- Legal Requirement Under the Law
As per Section 39 of the Motor Vehicle Taxation Act 1988, paying road tax is mandatory when purchasing a new vehicle. This ensures legal compliance and contributes to national infrastructure development.
Road Tax Rules in Rajasthan
The Rajasthan road tax rules cover several key areas, such as the taxation structure for different vehicle categories, calculation methods based on factors like engine size and type of fuel, exemptions and more.
Check them out in the section below:
- Applicability of Road Tax in Rajasthan
Road tax in Rajasthan applies to various types of vehicles, with the rate depending on their category and usage. Here is how it is generally applied:
- Private Vehicles: Individuals who own personal cars, motorbikes, or scooters are required to pay road tax for using public roads.
- Commercial Vehicles: Vehicles used for commercial purposes, such as buses, taxis, and lorries, are subject to a higher rate of road tax due to their heavier usage and impact on road infrastructure.
- Out-of-State Vehicles: If a vehicle is registered in a different state but is being used in Rajasthan, the owner must pay the road tax applicable within Rajasthan.
- Special Vehicle Categories: Certain types of vehicles, including electric vehicles, may be eligible for reduced tax rates or even full exemptions, depending on the latest state policies.
- Factors Affecting Road Tax Rates
To determine the Rajasthan road tax in India, several crucial factors must be taken into account:
- Type of Vehicle: The tax rate differs based on whether the vehicle is a two-wheeler, car, SUV, or used for commercial purposes. Each category is subject to a distinct rate.
- Engine Size: Vehicles with larger engine capacities typically incur higher road tax charges, as engine size is a key consideration in the calculation.
- Usage Purpose: In certain states, the intended use of the vehicle, whether for personal or commercial purposes, can influence the tax amount. Commercial vehicles usually face steeper charges.
- Fuel Type: Vehicles powered by diesel generally incur higher road tax compared to those running on petrol or CNG. To promote eco-friendly transport, electric vehicles (EVs) are usually exempt from paying road tax.
- Vehicle Age: Some states factor in the age of the vehicle when calculating road tax, with older vehicles often having different rates due to environmental concerns.
- Lifetime Tax, Green Tax, and Exemptions
- Lifetime Tax: In Rajasthan, vehicle owners have the option to pay a one-time lifetime road tax when purchasing a car. This payment covers all future road tax liabilities for the vehicle, except when the ownership is transferred or the vehicle is sold.
- Green Tax: Rajasthan imposes an environmental levy on older diesel vehicles, typically those over ten years old, to promote cleaner air and sustainability. This tax aims to discourage the use of high-emission vehicles that contribute significantly to pollution.
- Exemptions: Electric vehicles in Rajasthan benefit from full exemption from road tax as part of the state’s initiative to reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, owners of electric vehicles may be eligible for various government incentives, including subsidies to encourage the adoption of greener transport.
How to Calculate Road Tax in Rajasthan?
In Rajasthan, the calculation of road tax depends on various factors such as the vehicle type, engine capacity, fuel type, ex-showroom price, and the vehicle’s age. Tax rates and any applicable exemptions vary depending on these criteria.
Parameters Used for Road Tax Calculation
The table below discusses the standard parameters used for the Rajasthan road tax calculation:
| Factors | Description |
| Vehicle Type | Car, motorcycle, bus, truck, commercial vehicle, etc. |
| Engine Capacity | Measured in litres or cubic centimetres (cc) |
| Vehicle Weight | Curb weight or Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) |
| Vehicle Age | Duration since the vehicle was manufactured or registered |
| Fuel Type | CNG, electric, petrol, diesel, hybrid |
| Registration Location | Region-specific, district and state rates |
| Vehicle Cost/Value | Road tax is often calculated on a percentage of the vehicle’s cost price |
Sample Road Tax Calculation for Different Vehicles
Here is a table demonstrating how road tax differs across cars of different engine capacities as per the latest Rajasthan road tax rates:
| Four-wheeler With a Seating Capacity of Up to 10 | Percentage of One-time Tax |
| Till 800 cc (Petrol) | 6% |
| Till 800 cc (Diesel) | 8% |
| 800 cc to 1200 cc (Petrol) | 9% |
| 800 cc to 1200 cc (Diesel) | 11% |
| Above 1200 cc (Petrol) | 10% |
| Above 1200 cc (Diesel) | 12% |
How to Pay Road Tax in Rajasthan?
There are different methods via which you can Rajasthan road tax:
Online Payment Process
Step 1: Access the official Parivahan portal, operated by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Step 2: Go to the ‘Online Services’ tab and choose the ‘Vehicle Related Services’ option from the menu.
Step 3: Choose Rajasthan as the state where your vehicle is registered. You will then be redirected to a dedicated webpage for Rajasthan.
Step 5: From the drop-down menu, select your Regional Transport Office (RTO) and log in to your account.
Step 6: Provide the necessary information, including your vehicle’s registration number.
Step 7: Review the details you have entered carefully, then proceed to pay the road tax online.
Offline Payment Process
In Rajasthan, you can pay your road tax by visiting the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO) in person:
- Make sure to carry all required documents.
- The RTO staff will assess the tax amount based on your vehicle’s specifications.
- Once the payment is made, you will be issued an official receipt for the transaction.
Documents Required for Road Tax Payment
If you are making your road tax payment through the offline process at a Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Rajasthan, you will typically need to provide the following documents:
- The original purchase invoice of the vehicle
- Proof of identity (such as PAN card, Aadhaar card, or driving licence)
- Proof of address (such as utility bills, voter ID, or rental agreement)
- The vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC)
- A valid motor insurance policy
Penalties for Late Payment of Road Tax in Rajasthan
As per the Rajasthan Motor Vehicle Taxation Act, all vehicle owners in the state are legally required to pay road tax. If the payment is not made within the specified timeframe, a 5% penalty is applicable for the unpaid tax for each month of delay, including any portion of a month past the due date.
Refunds and Road Tax Transfer Rules in Rajasthan
Below, you will learn about the refunds and road tax transfer rules in Rajasthan:
Conditions for Road Tax Refund
In Rajasthan, you may be eligible to claim a road tax refund under the following two conditions:
- Irreparable Damage or Total Loss of Vehicle
If your vehicle is declared a total loss and cannot be repaired, for example, due to a severe accident or significant damage, you may request a refund for the unused portion of the tax.
- Re-registration Due to Interstate Relocation
In case you relocate to another state and re-register your vehicle there, you may also apply for a road tax refund in Rajasthan. To do this, you must first obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current RTO in Rajasthan.
Procedure for Applying for a Road Tax Refund/Transfer
The application for the refund can be made either online or by visiting the RTO in person. Once re-registration is done, follow the steps below to claim the refund from the RTO in Rajasthan:
Step 1: Go to the relevant RTO office and request the appropriate form for initiating a road tax refund.
Step 2: Carefully fill in the form with all required details.
Step 3: Attach all the necessary documents along with the completed refund form and submit them to the concerned RTO officials.
Step 4: The RTO will review the documents submitted. If everything is found to be in order, the process to issue the refund will be set in motion.
Step 5: The approved refund amount will be transferred directly to the bank account specified in your application.
Comparison: Road Tax in Rajasthan vs Other States
The following table showcases the road tax in Rajasthan and other states:
| State | Road Tax for Four Wheelers (10 lakhs) | Road Tax Amount | Electric Vehicle Tax |
| Rajasthan | ₹10,00,000 – 8% | ₹80,000 | Exempted (100%) |
| Maharashtra | ₹10,00,000 – 11% | ₹1,10,000 | Exempted (100%) |
| Delhi | ₹10,00,000 – 12.5% | ₹1,25,000 | Exempted (100%) |
| Uttar Pradesh | ₹10,00,000 – 8% | ₹80,000 | Exempted (100%) |
Note: The road tax amounts are estimated and can differ depending on the vehicle’s specifications and the evaluation by the Regional Transport Office (RTO). For accurate figures, it is recommended to check with the relevant state’s RTO.
Understanding the Rajasthan road tax rules is essential for all vehicle owners travelling through or residing in the state. By staying informed about applicable rates, calculation methods, payment options, and available exemptions, you can ensure compliance with state laws and avoid unnecessary penalties.
FAQs About Road Tax in Rajasthan
Q. What is the road tax rate in Rajasthan for private cars?
The Rajasthan Road tax rate for private vehicles varies according to their engine capacity. For instance, the tax rate for the private car ranges from 6% to 12%.
Q. Is there a discount for electric vehicles in Rajasthan?
Yes, you can avail of discounts for driving electric vehicles in Rajasthan. Recently, the state government has introduced a subsidy scheme worth ₹200 crore to promote the use of electric vehicles. This initiative is designed to make EVs more affordable and support their widespread adoption across the state.
Q. Can I pay road tax online in Rajasthan?
Yes, you can pay the road tax online in Rajasthan by visiting the official Parivahan portal. You can make the payment via net banking, debit or credit cards, and other digital modes.
Q. What happens if I delay road tax payment in Rajasthan?
If you fail to pay road tax in Rajasthan, a penalty will be imposed, and there is a risk of your vehicle being impounded. You may also have to face legal action in court.
Q. How is road tax calculated for commercial vehicles in Rajasthan?
In Rajasthan, road tax for commercial vehicles is calculated based on several factors, including the type of vehicle, engine capacity, weight, seating capacity, fuel type, and its intended usage. Commercial vehicles such as taxis, buses, and trucks generally pay a one-time lifetime tax calculated as a percentage of the vehicle’s value.
