Vehicle Fitness Certificate (FC) is a mandatory document that certifies your vehicle is roadworthy and safe to operate. It's required for all transport vehicles and private vehicles older than 15 years. The fitness test ensures your vehicle meets safety and emission standards.
This comprehensive guide explains how to apply for fitness certificate, renewal process, documents required, fees, and fitness test parameters.
What is Vehicle Fitness Certificate?
Fitness Certificate (FC) is an official document that certifies:
- Vehicle is mechanically fit and roadworthy
- All safety equipment is functional
- Emission levels are within limits
- Brakes, lights, steering are working properly
- Vehicle structure is intact and safe
Who Needs Fitness Certificate?
| Vehicle Type | FC Required | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Transport Vehicles (New) | After 2 years from registration | 1 year |
| Transport Vehicles (Old) | Mandatory every year | 1 year |
| Private Vehicles (Below 15 years) | Not required | - |
| Private Vehicles (15-20 years) | For RC renewal | 5 years |
| Private Vehicles (Above 20 years) | Mandatory | 1 year |
| School Buses | Mandatory | 6 months |
Documents Required for Fitness Certificate
- Registration Certificate (RC): Original + photocopy
- Insurance Policy: Valid insurance copy
- PUC Certificate: Valid pollution certificate
- Tax Receipt: Road tax payment proof
- Permit: For transport vehicles
- Old FC: Previous fitness certificate (for renewal)
- Application Form: Form 20 (filled)
- Identity Proof: Owner's ID proof
How to Apply for Fitness Certificate Online
Step 1: Visit Vahan Portal
- Go to vahan.parivahan.gov.in
- Select your state
- Click on "Fitness Certificate" or "Renewal of FC"
- Read instructions and proceed
Step 2: Enter Vehicle Details
- Enter vehicle registration number
- Enter chassis number
- Verify vehicle details displayed
- Enter owner details
Step 3: Upload Documents
- Upload RC copy
- Upload insurance policy
- Upload PUC certificate
- Upload tax payment receipt
- Upload permit (if applicable)
Step 4: Pay Fees Online
- Review fee breakdown
- Pay via Net Banking/Card/UPI
- Save payment receipt
Step 5: Book Fitness Test Slot
- Select testing center (RTO or ATS)
- Choose available date and time
- Confirm appointment
- Download appointment slip
Step 6: Vehicle Inspection
- Take vehicle to testing center on scheduled date
- Carry all original documents
- Vehicle undergoes fitness test
- Receive test report
- If passed, FC is issued
Fitness Test Parameters
| Component | Test Parameters |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Efficiency, parking brake, brake fluid level |
| Steering | Free play, alignment, power steering |
| Lights | Headlights, indicators, brake lights, fog lamps |
| Horn | Sound level, functionality |
| Tyres | Tread depth, condition, matching |
| Emission | CO, HC levels as per norms |
| Body | Structural integrity, corrosion |
| Suspension | Shock absorbers, springs |
| Wipers | Functionality, washer system |
| Mirrors | Rear view, side mirrors |
Automated Testing Stations (ATS)
New government initiative for computerized vehicle testing:
- Automated Process: Computer-based testing eliminates human bias
- Multiple Tests: Brake, emission, suspension, lights tested automatically
- CCTV Monitored: Entire process recorded
- Instant Results: Report generated immediately
- No Human Intervention: Fair and transparent
Fitness Certificate Fees
| Vehicle Type | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Two Wheeler | ₹200 - ₹400 |
| Three Wheeler | ₹300 - ₹500 |
| Light Motor Vehicle | ₹500 - ₹800 |
| Heavy Motor Vehicle | ₹800 - ₹1200 |
| Buses | ₹1000 - ₹1500 |
| ATS Testing Fee | ₹300 - ₹600 (additional) |
What if Vehicle Fails Fitness Test?
- Receive Failure Report: Get list of defects/failures
- Repair Vehicle: Fix all mentioned issues
- Re-inspection: Apply for re-test (usually within 7-15 days)
- Pay Re-test Fee: Nominal fee for re-inspection
- If Passed: FC issued after successful re-test
- Multiple Failures: Vehicle may be declared unfit for road
Vehicle Scrappage Policy Impact
As per new Vehicle Scrappage Policy 2021:
- Private vehicles above 20 years must pass fitness test
- Commercial vehicles above 15 years must pass fitness test
- Vehicles failing test will be de-registered
- Scrapping gives incentives on new vehicle purchase
- Certificate of Deposit issued for scrapped vehicles
Penalties for No Fitness Certificate
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Driving without valid FC (Transport) | ₹2,000 - ₹5,000 |
| Expired FC | ₹2,000 + Vehicle seizure possible |
| Operating unfit vehicle | ₹5,000 - ₹10,000 |
| Repeated offense | Higher fine + Permit cancellation |
Check FC Status Online
- Visit vahan.parivahan.gov.in
- Click on "Know Your Vehicle Details"
- Enter registration number
- Complete OTP verification
- View FC validity in vehicle details
Tips for Passing Fitness Test
- Get vehicle serviced before test
- Check all lights and indicators
- Ensure PUC is valid (emission test)
- Check brake efficiency
- Replace worn out tyres
- Fix any visible damage or corrosion
- Clean the vehicle thoroughly
- Carry all documents in original
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is fitness certificate required for personal cars?
For personal cars below 15 years old - No. For cars 15-20 years - Required for RC renewal. Above 20 years - Mandatory.
2. How long does fitness test take?
At ATS centers - 30-45 minutes. At RTO - May take few hours depending on queue.
3. Can I drive with expired FC?
No, driving with expired FC is illegal and attracts penalty. Transport vehicles can be seized.
4. What is the validity of Fitness Certificate?
1 year for transport vehicles, school buses - 6 months, private vehicles above 15 years - 5 years.
5. Can FC be renewed online without inspection?
No, physical inspection is mandatory. Online is only for application and appointment booking.
6. What happens if my vehicle fails fitness test?
You get a report of failures. Repair the issues and apply for re-test within specified time.