Owning a vehicle comes with responsibilities, and one of the most important is paying road tax. If you are a vehicle owner in Maharashtra, it is essential to understand what road tax is, why it is collected, and how to pay it correctly. This guide will give you a clear and simple overview of road tax in Maharashtra for 2025, helping you avoid confusion and penalties.

What is Road Tax?

The state government levies an obligatory road tax on all car owners. It is collected under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and the amount is used to build, repair, and maintain roads and infrastructure. The rate of road tax depends on various factors such as:

Type of vehicle (two-wheeler, four-wheeler, commercial, etc.)

  • Engine capacity (cc of the vehicle)
  • Vehicle cost and seating capacity
  • Fuel type (petrol, diesel, or electric)
  • Purpose of use (personal or commercial)
  • Vehicle’s age and registration status

Road Tax Structure in Maharashtra (2025)

In Maharashtra, road tax rates are calculated as a percentage of the vehicle’s cost and specifications. While the exact rates may differ slightly depending on updates in government notifications, the general structure looks like this:

1. Two-Wheelers

  • For two-wheelers costing up to a certain limit, a one-time road tax is applied at the time of registration.
  • The tax percentage often rises with engine capacity and cost of the bike or scooter.

2. Four-Wheelers (Cars and SUVs)

  • Road tax for four-wheelers is generally charged based on the cost of the vehicle.
  • Small cars with lower engine capacity fall under a lower tax bracket, while luxury cars and SUVs attract higher road tax rates.

3. Commercial Vehicles

  • Taxis, trucks, buses, and goods carriers are charged based on seating capacity, weight, and usage type.
  • For commercial vehicles, taxes may need to be renewed periodically instead of being one-time.

4. Electric Vehicles

  • To encourage green mobility, the state has introduced lower or waived-off road tax for electric vehicles in recent years. This makes EVs more affordable for buyers.

How is Road Tax Calculated in Maharashtra?

Road tax is not a fixed number for all vehicles. Instead, it is calculated according to the following:

  • Vehicle Type – Two-wheeler, four-wheeler, or commercial.
  • Ex-Showroom Price – The higher the cost of the vehicle, the higher the tax.
  • Fuel Type – Diesel vehicles usually attract higher road tax compared to petrol.
  • Registration Type – Personal or commercial use.
  • Age of Vehicle – Older vehicles pay lower road tax if re-registered in Maharashtra.

When Do You Have to Pay Road Tax?

  • At the time of registration: For new vehicles, road tax is paid upfront during registration at the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
  • For out-of-state vehicles: If you move to Maharashtra with a vehicle registered in another state, you may need to pay road tax here if the stay exceeds 12 months.
  • Periodic renewals (for commercial vehicles): Some commercial vehicles may require annual or periodic payment instead of a one-time fee.

How to Pay Road Tax in Maharashtra

Paying road tax has become easier with digital options. Vehicle owners can pay either online or offline:

1. Online Payment

  • Visit the official Maharashtra Transport Department portal.
  • Enter information about your vehicle, including the registration number, chassis number, and owner information.
  • The system will calculate the applicable tax.
  • Make payment using debit card, credit card, or net banking.
  • A digital receipt is generated, which should be saved as proof.

2. Offline Payment

  • Visit the nearest RTO office in Maharashtra.
  • Fill in the road tax form with your vehicle details.
  • Submit the required documents such as RC (Registration Certificate), insurance, and ID proof.
  • Pay the tax at the counter and collect a receipt.

Documents Required for Road Tax Payment

When paying road tax, either online or offline, you may need the following:

  • Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
  • Proof of address and identity
  • Insurance certificate of the vehicle
  • Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
  • Invoice of the vehicle (for new vehicles)
  • Previous road tax receipt (if applicable)

Penalties for Non-Payment of Road Tax

Failure to pay road tax can lead to penalties and fines. In some cases, the vehicle may even be seized by authorities until dues are cleared. Late payment attracts additional interest, so it is always better to pay on time and keep your receipts safe.

Road Tax Refund in Maharashtra

If you paid road tax in Maharashtra and then moved your vehicle permanently to another state, you may be eligible for a road tax refund.For this, you need to apply to the RTO with proof of new registration in the other state and the original tax payment receipt. Refunds are processed after verification, though the process may take some time.

Key Points to Remember

  • Road tax is mandatory for every vehicle owner in Maharashtra.
  • The tax is calculated on the basis of vehicle type, cost, and fuel type.
  • Payment can be made online or offline through the RTO.
  • Keep all receipts safely as proof of payment.
  • Non-payment may lead to fines, penalties, or seizure of the vehicle.

Conclusion

Road tax is not just a legal requirement but also a contribution towards the development and maintenance of Maharashtra’s road infrastructure. Whether you own a two-wheeler, car, or commercial vehicle, being aware of the rules and paying on time ensures hassle-free ownership.

By understanding how road tax works, how it is calculated, and the methods of payment, you can stay compliant and avoid unnecessary penalties. As a responsible vehicle owner, staying updated with road tax regulations in 2025 is the right step towards smooth and worry-free driving in Maharashtra. For more detailed insights and updates on vehicle-related regulations, you can also refer to square insurance.