Deadline For Car/Bike Registrations And Driving License Renewals Extended To September 30

• The validation renewal deadline was earlier extended to June before the latest extension.

• Listed documents include vehicle registration, driving licence, permits and fitness certificates.

• Exemptions are also available for third-party insurance. Own damage deadline remains the same. 

The coronavirus lockdowns imposed in many countries around the world, including India, led to a halt in most day to day operations. That also meant that anyone who was on the fence regarding the renewal of their driving license or car/bike registration couldn’t do the paperwork since the offices were closed. Thankfully the government has been giving extensions since March 30, with the first validity extension running to June. And now, these document validation periods have extended to the end of September.

This order by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has been implemented at all states and union territories in the country. Listed documents of validation include fitness, permit (all types), driving licence, registration and any other concerned documents that couldn’t be renewed due to the lockdown. 

While these exemptions are welcome even for third party insurance, it's not all rosy as your own damage component will still expire on its usual date. It basically means that you’ll still be liable to pay a late fee, lose provisions to a no-claim bonus and have to physically inspect your vehicle. And not to forget, paying through your own pocket for repairs in case of an incident. Thus, insurance policies will have to be renewed.

While lockdown restrictions have been eased up, physically heading to an authorised dealership to purchase your desired car is still pretty risky. On the bright side, carmakers have already got you covered in the form of online digital platforms. These platforms enable you to book vehicles, set appointments for test drives and servicing and avail of special finance schemes for purchasing your car.