🚘 Green Tax in India: What It Is, Who Has to Pay, and How to Pay – 2025 Guide
Green Tax is a tax imposed by the Indian government on older vehicles that cause higher pollution. It aims to reduce environmental damage by encouraging the use of newer, less polluting vehicles. In this article, you’ll learn what Green Tax is, when and why it is applicable, how much it costs, and how to pay it online.
🌿 What is Green Tax?
Green Tax is levied by the RTO (Regional Transport Office) under the Motor Vehicles Act. It applies to vehicles that have completed a certain age — usually 15 years — and are still in use. The revenue collected is used for pollution control and environment protection initiatives.
🔍 Purpose of Green Tax
- To discourage the use of old polluting vehicles
- To reduce overall air pollution in cities
- To raise funds for environmental projects and clean transport infrastructure
📅 When is Green Tax Applicable?
- ⏳ Private petrol vehicles: After completing 15 years from the date of registration
- ⏳ Commercial vehicles: After 8 years (renewed during fitness certification)
- ⏳ Diesel vehicles: Some states apply it after 10 years due to high emissions
Note: This tax is mandatory when renewing the registration of an old vehicle or renewing fitness for commercial vehicles.
📝 Documents Required for Green Tax Payment
- Registration Certificate (RC) of vehicle
- Valid Insurance Document
- PUC (Pollution Under Control) Certificate
- Owner’s ID Proof (Aadhaar, PAN, DL etc.)
💰 Green Tax Rates in India (2025)
Rates vary by state and vehicle category, but average charges are as follows:
| Vehicle Type | Approximate Tax |
|---|---|
| Two-wheelers (15+ years) | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 |
| Petrol Cars (15+ years) | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Diesel Cars (10+ years) | ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 |
| Commercial Vehicles | ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 (varies by size) |
💻 How to Pay Green Tax Online – Step-by-Step
- Visit https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/
- Select your state RTO portal under “Online Services”
- Choose “Pay Your Tax” or “Green Tax” option
- Enter vehicle registration number
- Verify vehicle details shown on the screen
- Make payment using UPI, Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card
- Download receipt for your records
🔄 Offline Method (RTO Office)
If online payment isn’t available in your state, you can pay at your local RTO:
- Carry all required documents
- Get a token or appointment
- Pay tax at the payment counter
- Collect stamped receipt for confirmation
🖼️ Green Tax Vehicle Example
⚠️ Penalty for Not Paying Green Tax
- RTO will not renew your RC or fitness certificate
- You may be fined if caught during vehicle checks
- Vehicle may be blacklisted in RTO records
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Green Tax applicable in all Indian states?
Yes, but the amount and rules may differ based on state policies.
Q. Can I avoid paying Green Tax?
No. It is mandatory for all eligible vehicles as per RTO records.
Q. Can I drive without paying Green Tax?
No. Your registration or fitness renewal will be denied, and you may face penalties.
Q. Is Green Tax refundable?
In most cases, it is non-refundable unless paid by error. You can contact your local RTO for details.
✅ Conclusion
Green Tax is a crucial step towards sustainable transportation. Make sure to check if your vehicle is eligible and pay the tax on time to avoid legal trouble. If your vehicle is more than 15 years old, chances are that Green Tax applies to you in 2025.
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