A Simple Guide to Vehicle Permits in India

By Amit Jangra | Published Date : July 28, 2025

Learn about vehicle permits in India, including types, fees, documents and how to apply for trucks, taxis and commercial vehicles.

If you drive a new or used commercial vehicle—like a truck, cab, or goods carrier—on Indian roads, especially across different states, you need something very important: a vehicle permit. It’s not just a formality. Without it, your vehicle can get fined or even stopped.

Whether you're driving Tata trucks, Ashok Leyland trucks, or running a fleet of second-hand trucks, this guide breaks down how permits work and why they matter.

So, What’s a Vehicle Permit Anyway?

Table of Contents

1. So, What’s a Vehicle Permit Anyway?

2. Who Needs a National Permit?

3. Applying for a Vehicle Permit: Here’s the Simple Way

4. Documents You Will Need

5. How to Check Your Vehicle Permit Online

6. Why Permit Status Matters

7. Permit Validity: How Long Does It Last?

8. How Much Do Permits Cost?

9. Important: Use Only Govt. Verified Portals

10. Quick Tips You’ll Thank Us For

11. Final Thoughts

A vehicle permit is basically legal permission to use your commercial vehicle for business on Indian roads.

There are two types:

→ National Permit (All India Permit) – You’re allowed to move goods or passengers across multiple states.
→ State Permit – You can operate only within your state.

So, if your Mahindra truck is delivering items from Delhi to Rajasthan, you’ll need a National Permit.

Who Needs a National Permit?

Mostly people who:

→ Run long-distance trucks
→ Own tourist taxis or intercity cabs
→ Handle logistics or courier services

If your truck or cab is crossing borders, a National Permit is non-negotiable.

Also Read: Tata Motors Launches New Ace Pro Mini Truck in Delhi priced at Rs. 3.99 Lakh

Applying for a Vehicle Permit: Here’s the Simple Way

You can now apply both online and offline. Most people prefer online—faster and less paperwork.

Here’s how to apply online:

→ Go to parivahan.gov.in
→ Click on “Permit”
→ Choose the right permit type. Enter vehicle details like registration and chassis number carefully during application.
→ Upload your documents
→ Pay the fees
→ Submit the form

You’ll be able to check your permit status online once it’s processed.

Documents You Will Need

Before you start, make sure you’ve got these handy:

→ Vehicle RC
→ Insurance copy
→ Fitness certificate
→ PUC (Pollution) certificate
→ Owner’s ID and address proof

One wrong detail can delay things, so double-check everything before hitting submit.

How to Check Your Vehicle Permit Online

No need to visit the RTO for updates. Just go to:

→ Enter your vehicle number
→ Click “Know Your Vehicle Details”
→ Scroll down to see your permit info

You’ll find the validity, permit type and status right there.

Why Permit Status Matters

A lot of people forget to check their National Permit status, but it’s actually a big deal.

→ Driving with an expired permit? You’ll get fined.
→ Police may stop and seize your vehicle.
→ Your delivery schedules could get affected.

Permit Validity: How Long Does It Last?

→ National Permit: Usually valid for 5 years
→ State Permit: 1 to 5 years, depending on the state

Don’t wait till the last day to renew it. Do it early and avoid penalties.

How Much Do Permits Cost?

Here’s a rough idea of what you might pay:

→ Truck National Permit: ₹15,000 to ₹20,000
→ Taxi All India Permit: ₹5,000 to ₹10,000
→ State Permits for Autos/Cabs: ₹1,000 to ₹5,000

Some states might also ask for road tax or green tax on top of this.

Important: Use Only Govt. Verified Portals

Don’t fall for fake agents or websites. Many people have lost money or ended up with fake permits.

Only apply through:

→ Parivahan
→ Vahan portal

And yes, save a digital copy on your phone. It helps during checks.

Quick Tips You’ll Thank Us For

→ Keep a valid permit inside your vehicle
→ Don’t skip renewals
→ Apply only on official portals
→ Check permit status online from time to time
→ Carry a digital copy—just in case
→ Know whether you need a State or National permit

Final Thoughts

Permits may seem boring, but they’re critical. Whether you run a single second hand truck or a full fleet of Ashok Leyland or Tata trucks, your business depends on being legal and road-ready.

Do not leave things for the last day. Go through your papers, sort them out and apply before it’s too late. A little delay could cause trouble—nobody wants fines or extra stress. When your vehicle’s legal, things just run smoother. That means fewer headaches and better business.

Related Blogs: Tata Ace Pro EV vs Other Electric Cargo Vehicles: Which Is Right for Your Business?

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Frequently Asked Questions on Trucks

1. What is a vehicle permit and why do I need it?

Ans: A vehicle permit is a legal document that allows your commercial vehicle to carry goods or passengers. It is required to avoid fines and operate legally on Indian roads.

2. What is the difference between a State Permit and a National Permit?

Ans: A State Permit lets you drive within one state only. A National Permit (All India Permit) allows you to drive across multiple states in India.

3. How can I apply for a commercial vehicle permit in India?

Ans: You can apply online at parivahan.gov.in. Fill in your vehicle details, upload required documents, pay the fee and submit your application.

4. What documents are needed for a vehicle permit application?

Ans: You’ll need your vehicle’s RC, valid insurance, fitness certificate, pollution certificate and ID and address proof of the owner.