How to register vintage cars in India: Centre issues draft rules

  • The proposed rules will allow retention of old number for already-registered vintage cars and a unique VA series numbers for fresh registrations.
Participants ride in their vintage car during the Statesman Vintage and Classic Car Rally at Connaught Place, in New Delhi, on February 23, 2020. (File Photo) (PTI)
Participants ride in their vintage car during the Statesman Vintage and Classic Car Rally at Connaught Place, in New Delhi, on February 23, 2020. (File Photo)

Registering old, vintage cars will now become easier as the Centre has formalised the process. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has confirmed that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed a formal registration process for such vehicles.

According to the proposed rules, a vintage car owner will be able to retain the old number of the vehicle if it is registered already, or will be offered a new and unique VA series number if one decides to register a vintage car afresh after the new rule kicks in.

Also check these Cars

Find more Cars
Mahindra Scorpio Classic (HT Auto photo)
Engine Icon2184.0 cc FuelType IconDiesel
₹ 13.59 Lakhs
Compare
View Offers
Hyundai Creta (HT Auto photo)
Engine Icon1497 cc FuelType IconMultiple
₹ 11 Lakhs
Compare
View Offers
Mahindra Thar (HT Auto photo)
Engine Icon2184 cc FuelType IconMultiple
₹ 11.25 Lakhs
Compare
View Offers
Mahindra Five-door Thar (HT Auto photo)
UPCOMING
Engine Icon2184.0 cc FuelType IconMultiple
₹ 15 - 16 Lakhs
Alert Me When Launched
Mahindra Xuv700 (HT Auto photo)
Engine Icon2184.0 cc FuelType IconMultiple
₹ 13.99 Lakhs
Compare
View Offers
Kia Seltos (HT Auto photo)
Engine Icon1497 cc FuelType IconMultiple
₹ 10.90 Lakhs
Compare
View Offers

The format for the registration mark will be 'XX VA YY ****', where VA stands for vintage, XX will be the state code, YY will be a two-letter series and '****' is a number from 0001 to 9999 allotted by state registering authority.

The fees for a new registration will be 20,000; while for subsequent re-registration, it will be 5,000. The registration will be valid for a span of 10 years. All applications for registration of vintage cars will be allowed on the government's 'PARIVAHAN' portal.

The draft rules define vintage motor vehicles as all those vehicles that are two-wheelers and four-wheelers and more than 50 years old from the date of their first registration. This include vehicles imported from other countries as well.

The rule comes with a rider though. It says that no substantial overhaul of the vehicle, including any modification in chassis or body shell or engine will be considered for registration.

The decision to formalise the process comes eight months after the Centre had announced its intention to bring in changes in the process that will help vintage car owners to easily register their vehicles. Previously there was no rule to regulate the process. The Centre said its aim is to preserve the heritage of such cars by legalising its presence on roads.

Nitin Gadkari said, "With an aim to preserve and promote the heritage of vintage vehicles, the MoRTH has formalised the registration process of vintage motor vehicles in India."

The Centre has also invited suggestions for the proposed rules on registering vintage vehicles from public. In a statement, Gadkari's ministry had said, "The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has published GSR 734 (E) dated November 25, 2020, seeking comments and suggestions in regards to amendment to Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), 1989, relating to vintage motor vehicles."

Currently, vintage cars are allowed on roads only for display or rallies. They are also allowed to be taken out for refuelling and maintenance.

Get insights into Upcoming Cars In India, Electric Vehicles, Upcoming Bikes in India and cutting-edge technology transforming the automotive landscape.

First Published Date: 17 Jul 2021, 10:46 AM IST
NEXT ARTICLE BEGINS

Check Latest Offers

Please provide your details to get Personalized Offers

Choose city
+91 | Choose city
Choose city
Select a dealer

Want to get the best price for your existing car?

Powered by: Spinny Logo
By clicking "View Offers" you Agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy
Dear Name

Please verify your mobile number.

+91 | Choose city
Couldn't verify the OTP.
It's either expired or it's incorrect.