One of the most important documents required to renew your two-wheeler insurance policy is the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate that every vehicle owner must have. The pollution test evaluates certain pollutants like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons released by your vehicle, which impact your health and contribute to air pollution.
Renewing your two-wheeler insurance without the PUC certificate can lead to the cancellation of your policy and even fines, something which you won't appreciate. But some may not know what a PUC certificate is in the first place. So, we will let you know the same here before telling you the impact of the PUC certificate on your two-wheeler insurance renewal. So, read this article for this critical information regarding two-wheeler insurance.
What is a PUC Certificate?
A PUC certificate is a document that proves that your vehicle meets the emission standards set by the government. It is necessary for the renewal of two-wheeler insurance. You can apply for the certificate online or at an authorised testing agency in India.
The cost of a PUC certificate varies depending on which type you choose and where you're getting it from. One advantage of getting it online is that you can get an instant quote and then decide whether to go ahead with the application or not.
Importance of a PUC Certificate
A PUC certificate is essential because it helps ensure that your vehicle is not polluting the environment. So, you may be fined by the traffic police if you don't have a PUC certificate. Plus, many bike insurance companies could give you a discount on your premium if you have a PUC certificate.
Finally, having a PUC certificate can help you avoid problems when renewing your two-wheeler insurance. The RTOs usually ask for this certificate during the annual process.
The Validity of a PUC Certificate
A PUC certificate is valid for one year from the date of issue. After the validity of your PUC certificate expires, you should renew it at any authorised emission testing centre. However, the PUC is only valid for six months from such a centre. So, look to renew it every six months.
Advantages of a PUC Certificate for Two-wheelers
Let's look at some of the advantages of having a PUC certificate for two-wheelers:
Compulsory for Insurance Renewal
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways requires that any two-wheeler seeking insurance renewal must have a valid PUC certificate. If no such document is available, it may lead to rejection of the application for renewal or even cancellation of the bike insurance cover. So, always keep your vehicle's PUC documents up-to-date to avoid these penalties.
Ensures Environment Protection
Pollution from vehicles is a major concern in India, especially regarding two-wheelers. Vehicles are one of the biggest contributors to pollution in our country, and having a PUC certificate ensures that they don’t emit harmful fumes that can cause air pollution, which is hazardous for us and the environment.
Makes You a Law-abiding Citizen
Having a PUC certificate ensures that you are complying with all rules set by the government.
Creates Awareness of the Condition of Your Two-wheeler
A valid PUC certificate makes it easier for police officials to identify whether your vehicle is legal or not. In case of an accident, they could easily determine whether you were driving under permissible conditions or had violated some norms. They could also check the usage of the right fuels and correct oil levels before deciding the compensation amounts.
Ensures safety standards
With a valid PUC certificate, the chances of accidents due to poor maintenance decrease significantly. Maintaining regular service schedules and inspection checks can help you stay updated about the overall health of your vehicle. Moreover, getting rid of dangerous pollutants from the exhaust reduces the risk of diseases like cancer among people living in polluted areas.
How Can You Get a PUC Certificate for Your Two-wheeler?
You can get a PUC certificate by taking your vehicle to a certified emission testing centre. The process usually takes less than 30 minutes and involves a visual inspection of your vehicle's emission control system and a tailpipe emissions test.
Here are the detailed steps to follow:
- First, you should contact a government-authorised emissions testing centre. You can also visit the Parivahan website to find the RTO-approved centres online.
- As soon as you locate a licensed testing centre for PUC, you must ride there with your two-wheeler and have a mechanic look at it. They will put a tube in your bike's exhaust pipe to test emissions.
A PUC certificate will be generated online and handed over to you when this is over.
Conclusion
A PUC certificate indicates your vehicle's emission levels are within the permissible limit; hence, it is important to have one when renewing your two-wheeler insurance. You may have to pay a higher premium if you don't have a PUC certificate. Additionally, not carrying a PUC certificate while riding your two-wheeler is an offence and can lead to hefty fines. Therefore, getting a PUC certificate is in your best interest before renewing your two-wheeler insurance.
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