Pollution Certificate Uttar Pradesh

In 2026, Uttar Pradesh has solidified its stance on vehicular emissions through the Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS). The PUC certificate is no longer just a slip of paper; it is a digital "health card" for your vehicle, linked directly to the Vahan 4.0 database.

• Mandatory Compliance: Required for every internal combustion engine vehicle on UP roads.
• Digital Integration: Real-time data syncing with RTO servers to prevent forgery.
• Enforcement: Monitored via high-speed ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras in major cities like Lucknow, Noida, and Kanpur.
• Insurance Linkage: Statutory requirement for any motor insurance policy renewal.

Beyond the environmental responsibility of reducing your carbon footprint, the PUC is a legal shield. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, driving without a valid certificate is now treated as a major environmental offense. In UP, this document is essential because:

1. Legal Immunity: It prevents heavy "environmental compensation" fines.
2. Insurance Validity: In the event of an accident, an expired PUC can lead to the immediate rejection of insurance claims.
3. Engine Longevity: The test acts as a diagnostic tool, identifying fuel combustion issues before they turn into costly mechanical failures.

The mandate extends to all vehicles that contribute to tailpipe emissions. This includes:

• Personal Transport: Two-wheelers (Bikes/Scooters) and Four-wheelers (Petrol, Diesel, CNG, LPG).
• Commercial Fleets: Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs), Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), and Passenger Buses.
• Construction & Agriculture: Special Purpose Vehicles and tractors used for non-agricultural transit.
• Note: Pure Electric Vehicles (EVs) are currently exempt, but Hybrid models must carry a valid certificate.

To ensure a seamless testing experience at any UP testing station, you only need to provide minimal data, as the system fetches most details via your registration number:

• Vehicle Registration Number: Plate number for system entry.
• Chassis Number: Last five digits (required for online verification).
• Mobile Number: To receive the OTP and the digital link to your certificate.
• Previous Certificate: Helpful for tracking history, though not mandatory for new tests.

While the status can be checked online, the actual emission test must be performed physically.

1. Locate a Terminal: Visit an RTO-authorized emission testing center (found at most petrol pumps).
2. The Probe Test: An analyzer probe is inserted into the exhaust to measure CO and HC levels.
3. Real-time Upload: The operator captures a photo of your vehicle’s number plate and uploads the readings to the national portal.
4. Digital Generation: Once the system approves the levels, the certificate is generated instantly.

Efficiency is the hallmark of the 2026 system.

• Testing Duration: The physical test and data upload typically take 5 to 10 minutes.
• Certificate Availability: The digital copy is available for download on the Parivahan portal or mParivahan app immediately after the test is completed and paid for.

Effective January 1, 2026, the Uttar Pradesh Transport Department has implemented a revised fee structure. These costs are uniform across the state:

• Two-Wheelers (Petrol): ₹70
• Three/Four-Wheelers (Petrol/CNG/LPG): ₹90
• Diesel Vehicles (All categories): ₹120

(Note: Minor convenience fees may apply at private centers, but the government-approved rates remain the baseline.)

Maintaining the "Active" status of your vehicle depends on its age and fuel type:

• New Vehicles (BS-IV/BS-VI): Enjoy a 1-year holiday from the date of first registration.
• Standard Renewal: Post the first year, vehicles must be tested every 6 months.
• NCR Specifics: For vehicles operating in Noida or Ghaziabad, stricter 3-month cycles may be enforced during "Grap" (Graded Response Action Plan) periods if the engine shows high emission trends.
• Renewal Window: It is advised to renew your certificate 7 days prior to expiry to avoid the automated e-challan system.