The Indian government has implemented harsher traffic laws for 2025, with fines for serious offenses increasing by up to tenfold. Effective March 1, 2025, the enhanced penalties will include much greater fines and the possibility of imprisonment for serious offences. The move intends to promote road safety and deter careless driving by imposing higher fines, jail time, and community service as part of a zero-tolerance policy for traffic crimes.
New Rules and Penalties
Drink-Driving: If caught driving while intoxicated, you may face legal consequences. Expect a Rs 10,000 fine or up to 6 months in jail. Repeat offenders now face a Rs 15,000 punishment and up to 2 years in prison, an increase from the previous Rs 1,000-1,500 penalties.
No Helmet: Driving without a helmet will result in a Rs 1,000 fine and a 3-month license suspension. Not wearing a seatbelt can result in a Rs 1,000 penalty.
Use of Phone While Driving: The fine for using a cell phone while driving has increased to Rs 5,000 from Rs 500.
Missing Documents: Driving without a valid licence or insurance can result in penalties of Rs 5,000 and Rs 2,000, respectively, as well as up to 3 months in prison or community service. Repeat offenders face larger fines.
No Pollution Certificate: Without a pollution certificate, penalties include a Rs 10,000 fine, 6 months in jail, and community service.
Triple Riding and Speeding: Speeding and triple riding on a two-wheeler now carries a Rs 1,000 fine. Risky driving or racing might result in a Rs 5,000 fine. Failure to yield to emergency vehicles, including ambulances, will result in a Rs 10,000 punishment.
Signal Jumping and Overloading: Signal jumping and overloading now result in a Rs 5,000 fine. Overloading cars can result in a Rs 20,000 punishment, up from Rs 2,000.
Juvenile Offenders: Offenders will have to pay penalties including a Rs 25,000 fine, 3 years in prison, registration revocation, and licence suspension until they reach the age of 25.