Owning a car for two decades is often a matter of pride. Many enthusiasts cherish their vehicles for sentimental reasons, while others rely on them for affordability. However, the Indian government has recently introduced steep hikes in fitness test fees for vehicles aged 20 years and above, making it significantly costlier to keep old cars on the road.
Why Fitness Tests Matter
A fitness test is a mandatory inspection to ensure that vehicles remain roadworthy and safe. It checks critical aspects such as:
- Braking efficiency
- Emission levels
- Structural integrity
- Lighting and safety systems
For cars older than 15 years, fitness certificates are required every five years. Now, with the new rules, vehicles crossing the 20-year mark face much higher fees, reflecting the government’s push to phase out ageing, polluting models.
The New Fee Structure
Under the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (Fifth Amendment, 2025), fitness test fees are now categorized into three slabs:
- 10–15 years
- 15–20 years
- 20+ years
For vehicles above 20 years, the charges have risen dramatically:
| Vehicle Type | Old Fee | New Fee (20+ years) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two-wheelers | ₹600 | ₹2,000 | ~3.3× |
| Light Motor Vehicles (cars/jeeps) | ~₹1,000–₹1,500 | ~₹7,500 | ~5–7× |
| Medium Goods Vehicles | ~₹3,000 | ~₹12,500 | ~4× |
| Heavy Trucks/Buses | ~₹5,000 | ₹25,000 | ~5× |
Sources:
Government’s Rationale
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has clarified that the fee hike is intended to discourage unsafe and high-polluting vehicles. Older cars tend to emit more pollutants, consume more fuel, and pose higher safety risks. By making fitness tests expensive, the government hopes to:
- Push owners toward scrapping old vehicles.
- Encourage adoption of newer, cleaner models.
- Reduce road accidents caused by mechanical failures.
- Support India’s broader climate and pollution-control goals.
Impact on Car Owners
For owners of 20-year-old cars, the new fees present a tough choice:
- Pay the higher fitness fees and continue using the vehicle.
- Opt for voluntary scrappage, which may offer incentives like discounts on new car purchases.
- Preserve vintage cars as collector’s items, but limit their use to exhibitions or rallies.
While enthusiasts may still pay the premium to keep classics alive, average car owners may find the costs prohibitive.
Broader Implications
This move ties into India’s Vehicle Scrappage Policy, which encourages phasing out vehicles older than 15–20 years. The policy aims to reduce pollution, improve road safety, and boost demand for new vehicles. Automakers stand to benefit, while consumers face higher costs of ownership.
Conclusion
The fitness test fee hike for 20-year-old cars marks a turning point in India’s automotive landscape. By making it costlier to retain ageing vehicles, the government is nudging owners toward cleaner, safer alternatives. While this may disappoint vintage car lovers and budget-conscious drivers, it aligns with India’s long-term goals of reducing emissions and modernizing its vehicle fleet.
For car owners, the message is clear: holding onto a 20-year-old car now comes with a hefty price tag. Whether to pay up, scrap, or upgrade is a decision that will shape not just personal finances, but also the future of mobility in India.
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