Owning a vehicle comes with several responsibilities. Whether you drive a car, ride a bike, or operate any other type of vehicle, there are essential documents you must carry at all times to avoid facing penalties. Today, we are highlighting the vital paperwork you need to ensure you comply with traffic regulations and steer clear of hefty fines. It is not just about having physical copies; digital versions can also suffice. Let us break it down for you.
Essential Documents You Should Always Carry
- Driving License (DL) Your driving license serves as proof that you are authorized to operate a vehicle. Driving without this important document can result in a severe fine. It is a legal requirement, and being caught without a valid license can lead to legal action and monetary penalties.
- Registration Certificate (RC) Every vehicle must be registered with the transport authority. Upon purchasing a vehicle, the dealer provides a registration certificate. This document verifies that your vehicle is legally registered. Driving a vehicle without an RC is a violation of traffic rules and can result in a fine.
- Insurance Policy Vehicle insurance is mandatory for every vehicle owner. An insurance policy not only safeguards you financially in case of an accident but also protects other road users. If your vehicle is uninsured, you could face severe consequences, including a fine, and you will not be able to claim compensation for any damage caused during an accident.
- Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) The PUCC confirms that your vehicle meets the pollution norms set by the authorities. You can obtain this certificate from authorized petrol pumps or emission testing centers. If you fail to carry this certificate while driving, the traffic police can issue a challan against you.
Penalty for Not Carrying PUCC
Driving a vehicle without a valid PUCC can lead to strict penalties. If you are caught for the first time without this certificate, you may be fined Rs 1,000. On a second offense, the fine can increase to Rs 2,000. Therefore, it is advisable to renew your PUCC regularly and always carry it while driving.
Physical or Digital Copies – Both Are Valid
While it is a common belief that carrying physical copies of these documents is necessary, this is not entirely true. You can also keep digital versions of your DL, RC, Insurance, and PUCC on platforms like DigiLocker or mParivahan app. These digital copies are considered valid and accepted by the traffic police.
Stay Prepared, Avoid Fines
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, always carry the required documents when driving your vehicle. Being prepared not only keeps you on the right side of the law but also enhances your overall safety on the road.