15 Year Car Rule India: What It Means for Owners and Buyers

When you buy a car in India, you’re not just buying a vehicle—you’re signing up for a 15 year car rule India, a government policy that limits how long personal vehicles can remain on the road. Also known as the vehicle scrappage policy, it’s not just about age—it’s about safety, emissions, and keeping roads efficient. This rule applies to both petrol and diesel cars registered after April 2022. After 15 years, your car can’t be driven on public roads unless it passes a mandatory fitness test and re-registration. For diesel cars, the clock starts ticking even earlier in some cities.

The vehicle scrappage policy, a nationwide initiative to remove old, polluting vehicles from circulation is forcing owners to make choices: sell, scrap, or upgrade. Many dealers now offer trade-in deals tied to this rule, and scrapping centers are popping up across states like Gujarat and Maharashtra. The government isn’t just pushing for cleaner air—it’s creating a market for new, efficient vehicles. This policy also affects used car buyers. A 14-year-old car might still be roadworthy, but its resale value drops fast because buyers know it won’t last another year without costly re-registration.

The automotive regulations India, the legal framework governing vehicle use, safety, and environmental standards are changing fast. What used to be a simple renewal process is now a multi-step check: emissions, brake efficiency, structural integrity, and even noise levels. If your car fails, you can’t just pay a fine and drive on—you need repairs, retesting, and paperwork. This isn’t just bureaucracy; it’s designed to stop unsafe or high-pollution vehicles from clogging cities. And while some see this as a burden, others see opportunity—especially for small manufacturers who now make spare parts, inspection tools, and scrappage logistics services.

There’s no blanket ban on driving after 15 years, but the hurdles make it impractical for most. If you own an older car, your best move is to plan ahead. Check your registration date. Know your state’s rules—some allow extensions with proof of fitness. And if you’re shopping for a used car, avoid anything close to 15 years unless you’re ready to handle the cost and hassle of keeping it legal.

Below, you’ll find real stories and practical guides from people who’ve faced this rule head-on—from those who scrapped their old diesel SUVs to those who turned 15-year-old cars into profitable side businesses. Whether you’re a driver, buyer, or just curious about how Indian roads are changing, these posts give you the facts without the fluff.