As part of its mission to combat urban pollution and promote clean mobility, the Government of India has intensified its enforcement of the Old Vehicle Ban in 2025. The updated policy targets 15-year-old petrol vehicles and 10-year-old diesel vehicles, banning them from operating in select cities across the country.
With air quality declining in major metros and tier-1 cities, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), in coordination with state RTOs, has expanded the list of banned zones under the National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines.
Cities Enforcing the Old Vehicle Ban in 2025
Here’s the latest list of major Indian cities enforcing the 2025 vehicle ban for aging petrol and diesel vehicles:
| City | Petrol Vehicle Ban | Diesel Vehicle Ban | Enforcement Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi NCR | 15+ years | 10+ years | Strictly Enforced |
| Mumbai | 15+ years | 10+ years | Implemented with fines |
| Bengaluru | 15+ years | 10+ years | RTO surveillance in place |
| Chennai | 15+ years | 10+ years | Enforced in high-traffic zones |
| Hyderabad | 15+ years | 10+ years | Phase-wise enforcement |
| Kolkata | 15+ years | 10+ years | Full enforcement in 2025 |
| Lucknow, Kanpur, Agra | 15+ years | 10+ years | Green zones notified |
| Ahmedabad | 15+ years | 10+ years | Banned in key urban corridors |
These bans apply to both private and commercial vehicles, and RTOs are issuing challans for violators caught through ANPR and AI-based CCTV surveillance systems.
Rules and Exemptions Under the 15-Year Vehicle Ban
The vehicle ban follows these core rules:
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All petrol vehicles above 15 years and diesel vehicles above 10 years must not be used on public roads in specified cities
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Vehicles caught violating this rule will be immediately de-registered and impounded
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Fines up to ₹10,000 and cancellation of registration certificate (RC) for repeat offenders
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Vintage/classic vehicles registered under the special Vintage category are exempt
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Electric retrofitting of old vehicles is allowed to bypass the ban if approved by RTO
Only vehicles with a valid PUCC (Pollution Under Control Certificate) and falling within the age limit are allowed to operate.
How to Check If Your Vehicle Is Affected
To know if your vehicle falls under the banned category:
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Enter your vehicle registration number
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Check the registration date and fuel type
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If it exceeds 15 years (petrol) or 10 years (diesel), it may be banned in select cities
Some states have also launched RTO mobile apps that notify vehicle owners about upcoming restrictions based on registration data.
Alternatives and What Vehicle Owners Can Do
If your vehicle is banned or nearing the limit:
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Apply for vehicle scrappage benefits under the Voluntary Vehicle Scrappage Policy
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Explore government incentives on EVs and CNG vehicles
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Check if your vehicle is eligible for conversion to electric (retrofit)
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Sell your vehicle to a non-restricted area (rural districts or small towns) where the rule is not enforced yet
Owners must also ensure proper documentation and NOC during any transfer or deregistration.
FAQs
Which vehicles are banned under the 2025 rule?
Petrol vehicles older than 15 years and diesel vehicles older than 10 years are banned from operating in select Indian cities.
Are there any exemptions to this rule?
Yes, vintage cars, electric vehicles, and retrofitted EVs with RTO approval are exempt.
How is the rule enforced?
Through RTO inspections, CCTV surveillance, and automated challan systems linked to the Parivahan portal.
Can I sell my old vehicle to a different city?
Yes, you can transfer ownership to a non-ban area, but you’ll need an NOC from your current RTO.
Click here to know more.