TL;DR
India's government now requires all pending toll taxes to be cleared before a vehicle can be sold or its fitness certificate renewed.
The Indian government has introduced new regulations making it mandatory to clear all pending toll taxes before a vehicle can be sold or its fitness certificate renewed. This crucial step, implemented by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) through modifications to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules of 2026, aims to address issues of toll payment evasion and ensure a more equitable contribution from all road users.
The new rules are expected to contribute to a smoother, faster, and more seamless travel experience on national highways by strengthening digital tracking, enhancing transparency, and reducing disputes related to toll payments. This move is part of broader reforms aimed at aligning highway management with national goals for a toll-free road system.
Vehicle owners are urged to ensure all their toll dues are settled to comply with these updated regulations, which came into effect on January 23, 2026. The government anticipates that this measure will not only curb evasion but also support infrastructure funding and the overall digitalization of the country's transport ecosystem.
