Delhi, being in the centre of India, is a nice place to visit. Traditional and modern aspects coexist without much conflict. For vehicle owners driving on the streets of Delhi, it is necessary to learn the relevance of paying road tax. These taxes ensure the maintenance of the cities to support one of the most advanced transport systems in the nation. 

Enshrined in the Motor Vehicles Act, of 1988, road tax is paid to reimburse the upkeep and development of internal infrastructure. 

In this guide, we are going to cover the details of road tax in Delhi and RTO charges in 2025 so that there is no information gap on your part. Keep reading to know more and ensure you’re up to date!

Every state has its road tax structure and for vehicle owners in Delhi, these are particularly important. Delhi road tax payment is for registered vehicle owners under the Law to maintain safe and good quality roads.

Road tax collected by Delhi’s government improves the overall structure and safety of roads enabling the smooth flow of traffic within the city. Such tax rates differ depending on some elements such as owning a motorcycle or car, its intended purpose such as private use and rented services, engine size etc.

Vehicles owned by currently unreserved individuals outside Delhi who bring their vehicles into Delhi shall be charged for the number of days. Typically, where there is a levy, the Tariff is the amount that a vehicle is payable at the time of registration in the state where the owner resides.

Like if you drive a vehicle in your state and have already paid some tax in your state then for 90 days you can drive in Delhi without paying any tax. Thereafter, the tax must be paid as per the RTO of Delhi.

The calculation of road tax in Delhi is influenced by various factors like:

1. Type of Your Vehicle

The type of vehicle is a significant determinant in calculating road tax. The rates vary depending on whether it’s a two-wheeler, four-wheeler, or a vehicle registered outside Delhi:

• Two-wheelers typically attract a lower tax compared to larger vehicles.

• Four-wheelers, including cars and SUVs, are taxed higher, primarily based on their weight and engine capacity.

• Three-wheelers and out-of-state vehicles are subject to distinct tax rates, depending on their classification.

2. Purpose of Usage: Personal or Commercial

The vehicle’s intended purpose also affects the tax rates. Whether it's for personal use or commercial, the tax varies:

• Personal vehicles, such as family cars and bikes, incur lower taxes.

• Commercial vehicles like buses, trucks, and taxis are taxed higher due to the increased wear they cause on public roads.

3. Engine Capacity

Engine capacity, measured in cubic centimetres (cc), is another vital factor in road tax calculation. Vehicles with larger engines generally pay more tax:

• Two-wheelers with engines below 125 cc typically have lower tax rates.

• Larger four-wheelers, such as SUVs and luxury sedans, face higher taxes due to their heavier road usage and environmental impact.

4. Type of the Model of Your Vehicle

The vehicle’s model irrespective of being a standard, luxury, or sporty outline involves evaluation in terms of road tax. Unlike regular models, where tax is imposed at normal rates, luxury and premium models incur higher tax levels on the basis of their market value and the added strain they impose on the roads.

5. Fuel Type

This fuel type that your vehicle operates on has a major influence on the tax rate that is applicable. Tax is applied differently in types of fuels the vehicle uses like petrol engines, diesel engines, electric engines, and hybrid engines:

• Diesel vehicles are often subjected to higher taxes to promote environmental protection.

• Electric vehicles (EVs) may enjoy tax benefits or even exemptions as they contribute to a cleaner environment.

6. Ex-Showroom Price of Your Vehicle

The ex-showroom price, which excludes tax and insurance, is a crucial factor in determining road tax. More expensive vehicles, like luxury cars and high-end bikes, attract higher taxes due to their elevated cost.

7. Seating Capacity

The seating capacity of a vehicle, particularly in the case of commercial vehicles is another factor that will be included when coming up with a total tax value. Higher taxes are levied on vehicles such as buses and passenger vans owing to the larger capacities that they possess since they are mainly utilized for commercial purposes and cause increased road wear.

Opting for online road tax payment is a hassle-free way to bypass long and tiring queues. You can quickly make your payment by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Visit the official e-Vahan portal and locate the ‘Tax Payment’ section. This is where the process begins.

In Delhi where it is compulsory for all registered owners to pay once road tax. Section 11 of the Delhi Motor Vehicles Taxation Act states that even a delay in making this payment can result in a lot of penalties and heavy fines.

Schemers in default also may be under a threat of imposition of additional charges which generally represent some percentage of the cost of their vehicles. Fortunately, now you are able to deal with any outstanding dues that you might have since customers can pay for road tax online.

Also, those people who paid the relevant road tax at their own state RTO for vehicles that are registered got 90 days period exempt from paying any taxes in Delhi.