Transportation of goods across India is a crucial aspect of the country’s economy, and ensuring compliance with legal regulations is essential. The National Permit, also known as the All India Permit, allows goods vehicles to operate across states, facilitating smooth and legal transportation. This article explains how to register a lorry for a National Permit online, including the necessary steps, requirements, and associated costs.
What is a National Permit?
A National Permit is a special authorization for goods vehicles to travel beyond their home state. Under Rules 86 & 87 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, a vehicle with this permit can operate in at least four continuous states, including its home state. The permit facilitates free movement of goods across state borders, simplifying the process for transport operators.
Requirements for Obtaining a National Permit
Before registering a lorry for a National Permit, certain conditions must be met:
- Vehicle Registration: The vehicle must be registered with the Regional Transport Office (RTO) of the concerned state.
- Insurance: The vehicle must be insured.
- Fitness Certificate: The vehicle should pass a fitness test confirming that it is roadworthy.
- Age Limit: The vehicle should not exceed 12 years of age for a standard permit, and 15 years for multi-axle vehicles.
- Application Forms: The applicant must fill out Form 46 and Form 48, which are required for obtaining the National Permit.
Documents Needed for a National Permit
To obtain a National Permit online, the following documents are required:
- Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) issued by the RTO
- Fitness Certificate for the vehicle
- Insurance Policy document
- Tax Payment Invoice for the current quarter
- Green Tax Payment Receipt (if applicable)
- National Permit Application Fees proof
- Composite Tax Payment Receipts for other states (if applicable)
Steps for Online Registration of a National Permit
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has digitized the process of obtaining a National Permit through the Vahan Portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to register a lorry for a National Permit online:
Step 1: Visit the Vahan Portal
Go to the official Vahan Portal (https://vahan.parivahan.gov.in).
Step 2: Create an Account or Log In
If you don’t already have an account, create one on the portal. Otherwise, log in using your existing credentials.
Step 3: Fill in the Application Forms
Complete Form 46 and Form 48 online. These forms require basic information about the vehicle, including its registration number, chassis number, and insurance details.
Step 4: Upload Documents
Upload the required documents such as the vehicle’s RC, fitness certificate, and insurance policy.
Step 5: Payment of Fees
Pay the prescribed fees for the National Permit. The payment can be made online through the portal using a debit/credit card or other online payment methods.
Step 6: Submit the Application
Once all details and payments are submitted, the application is forwarded to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) for processing.
Step 7: Approval and Permit Issuance
After the RTO processes your application, the National Permit will be issued and made available for download from the portal. The permit will be valid for at least four states, as specified during the application process.
Types of National Permits and Fees
There are different types of National Permits based on the duration of the permit:
- Temporary Permit (One Week): ₹17,600
- Temporary Permit (Four Months): ₹17,790
- Permanent Permit (Five Years): ₹19,550
These fees are broken down into various components, including base permit fees, authorization fees, and composite fees. The fees are subject to change, so it’s important to check the latest rates on the official Vahan Portal.
National Permit Payment
To pay the National Permit fees online, follow these steps:
- Visit the National Permit payment page on the Vahan Portal.
- Enter the vehicle’s registration number and chassis number.
- Pay the prescribed fees using the available online payment methods.
Once the payment is successfully processed, you will receive confirmation, and your permit will be approved.
Section 88 of the Motor Vehicle Act and National Permit
The Motor Vehicle Act, Section 88, governs the issuance of National Permits. This section allows vehicles with National Permits to operate in multiple states, ensuring compliance with road safety and transportation laws. It also details the conditions under which permits can be issued, including the age limit for vehicles and the requirements for goods transport vehicles.
How to Check the Validity of a National Permit
To check the validity of a National Permit:
- Visit the Vahan Portal.
- Enter the vehicle’s registration number and the last five digits of the chassis number.
- Click Verify to check the current status of the permit.
Conclusion
The National Permit is a critical requirement for transport operators looking to expand their business and ensure compliance with Indian laws. By following the simple steps outlined above, lorry owners can obtain a National Permit online, making inter-state transportation smoother and more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are there any restrictions or conditions associated with a National Permit?
Yes, the vehicle should be insured, fit to carry goods, and not exceed the maximum age limit. There are also conditions related to the state-specific rules that may apply.
2. What are the penalties for operating a commercial vehicle without a valid National Permit?
Penalties may include fines, the impounding of the vehicle, and legal action, depending on the state’s laws.
3. Is there a fee for applying or renewing a National Permit online?
Yes, there are fees for both applying and renewing the National Permit. These fees vary based on the type of permit and the duration of validity.
4. How long does it take to obtain a National Permit after applying online?
The time required to obtain the National Permit depends on the state and the type of vehicle. It typically takes a few days to process the application and issue the permit.
By understanding the process and adhering to the legal requirements, transport operators can easily obtain a National Permit and enjoy the benefits of operating across multiple states in India.