Punjab Introduces New Policy for Imported Vehicles

Punjab has enacted a new policy governing the registration and transfer of imported vehicles. This legislation mandates owners to await a year following registration before passing their vehicles to someone else. Under the new rules, an imported vehicle will be registered solely in the name of the individual who imported it. Following one year from the registration date, the vehicle's transfer to another buyer becomes permissible.

Previously, vehicles imported under personal, gift, and residence categories could be sold immediately after registration. The policy has abolished this convenience.

The Excise Department has implemented a system check to enforce the new requirement. This system will block ownership transfers until the vehicle has completed the mandatory one-year period. According to officials, imported vehicles constitute approximately 20% of all vehicle registrations in Punjab. They further noted that this new policy could lead to a substantial reduction in the department's revenue.