Buying a T-permit car without checking the documents is the fastest way to lose money. A clean-looking car can hide an expired permit, pending challans or an unpaid loan. Go through this checklist item by item — ideally before you even discuss price.
1. Commercial Registration Certificate (RC)
- Confirm it is a Transport / Commercial RC (yellow plate)
- Match engine and chassis numbers with the physical car
- Check the owner name matches the seller (or there is valid authorisation)
- Note the number of previous owners
2. Permit Document
- Identify the permit type — city, state or All India Tourist Permit
- Check the validity date
- Confirm it covers the routes and zones you plan to operate in
3. Fitness Certificate
Commercial vehicles must carry a current fitness certificate. Check the expiry date — if it is close, factor the renewal cost and inspection into your offer.
4. Commercial Insurance
- Confirm it is commercial (passenger-carrying) cover, not private
- Check the policy is active and the expiry date
- Ask about No Claim Bonus and any past claims
5. Road Tax and PUC
- Road tax receipts up to date at the commercial rate
- Valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
6. Loan NOC and Challans
- If financed, get the loan clearance NOC and hypothecation removal
- Check for pending traffic challans online using the registration number
- Confirm there are no court cases or blacklist flags on the vehicle
Final Tip: Verify, Then Pay
Never make a full payment before every document is verified and the transfer process is agreed in writing. On a verified marketplace like Buy Sell Taxi, much of this checking is done for you — but you should still confirm the originals at the time of purchase.