A Guide to Vehicle Registration in Punjab

Owning a vehicle in Punjab, Pakistan, offers convenience and freedom, but it comes with the responsibility of proper registration. This process ensures the legality of ownership, facilitates tax collection, and helps maintain vehicle records

This guide will equip you with the knowledge to register your vehicle in Punjab, navigating the steps and requirements effectively.

Understanding the Process:

There are two main scenarios for vehicle registration in Punjab:

  1. New Vehicle Registration: This applies to vehicles manufactured locally and imported ones that haven't been registered in Pakistan before.
  2. Transfer of Ownership: This involves registering a previously registered vehicle in your name after purchasing it from another owner.

Documents Required:

The specific documents required will vary slightly depending on the registration type, but here's a general list for both scenarios:

  • New Vehicle Registration:
    • Application for Registration (Form-F)
    • Copy of your National Identity Card (CNIC)
    • Original Sales Certificate of the Vehicle
    • Original Sales Invoice of the Vehicle
    • Payment of Registration Fee, Number Plate Fee, and other applicable taxes (more details below)
  • Transfer of Ownership:
    • Transfer Order (TO) Form (prescribed)
    • Photocopy of Seller's CNIC
    • Photocopy of Purchaser's CNIC
    • Photocopies of Witnesses' CNICs
    • Original Registration Certificate (with updated token tax payment)
    • Original Registration File (if applicable) for vehicles registered under the "File Return Scheme"
    • Duplicate Registration Certificate (if original is unavailable)
    • Application in Prescribed Form
    • Payment of Transfer Fee and other applicable taxes

Fees and Taxes:

The specific fees and taxes you'll need to pay will depend on various factors like the vehicle type, engine capacity, and city of registration. Here's a breakdown of the main components:

  • Registration Fee: This is a one-time fee levied by the Excise & Taxation Department for registering the vehicle.
  • Number Plate Fee: This covers the cost of the license plates issued with your vehicle registration.
  • Token Tax: This is an annual tax levied on all registered vehicles. You'll need to have paid the latest token tax before proceeding with registration.
  • Advance Income Tax (AIT): This applies to new locally manufactured vehicles and is calculated based on the engine capacity.
  • Transfer Fee: This is payable when transferring ownership of a vehicle.

Registration Steps:

  1. Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents mentioned above in original or certified photocopy form.
  2. Pay Applicable Fees: Visit a designated Excise & Taxation Department office and make the required fee payments. You can usually pay through cash, credit card, or online payment channels offered by the department.
  3. Form Submission: Fill out the appropriate application form (Form-F for new registration or Transfer Order form for ownership transfer). Submit the completed form along with all the documents to the Excise & Taxation Department office.
  4. Vehicle Inspection (Optional): In some cases, the department might require a physical inspection of your vehicle to verify its condition and engine number. Cooperate with the inspection process.
  5. Registration Issuance: Once all requirements are met and verification is complete, the department will issue your vehicle registration certificate and license plates.

Additional Considerations:

  • Online Appointment System: The Punjab Excise & Taxation Department offers an online appointment system for vehicle registration and transfer services. This can help save time and avoid long queues at the department offices. You can find information about the online appointment system on the department's website https://excise.punjab.gov.pk/.
  • Home Service: The department also offers a home service for vehicle registration and transfer in select cities. This can be a convenient option for those unable to visit the department office in person. Details about home service availability and booking procedures can be found on the department's website or by calling the Punjab Information Technology Board helpline (080008786).
  • Biometric Verification (Optional): In some cases, biometric verification might be required during the registration process. This involves providing fingerprints or iris scans for additional security measures.

Conclusion:

Registering your vehicle in Punjab, Pakistan, requires some effort, but understanding the process and following the steps outlined above will ensure a smooth experience. By having the necessary documents prepared and familiarizing yourself with the fees involved, you can navigate the registration process efficiently. Remember to check the Excise & Taxation Department's website for the latest updates and information to stay informed about any changes in procedures or fees.