Punjab Announces Emission Testing Fee for Vehicles. The Punjab Environment Protection and Climate Change Department has officially announced new emission testing fees for vehicles, effective from November 10, 2025. This move aims to control air pollution, promote environmental safety, and ensure that all vehicles on the road meet emission standards.
The department also released a list of vehicles exempted from the emission test, along with a detailed fee structure for different engine capacities.
New Emission Testing Fees in Punjab
According to the official notification, all vehicle owners in Punjab must pay a testing fee based on their car’s engine size when undergoing emission inspection.
Here’s the official fee breakdown:
| Engine Capacity (cc) | Emission Test Fee (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Up to 1,000cc | Rs. 500 |
| 1,001cc – 1,500cc | Rs. 800 |
| 1,501cc – 2,500cc | Rs. 1,000 |
| 2,501cc – 4,500cc | Rs. 1,500 |
| Above 4,500cc | Rs. 2,000 |
Note: The testing fee will be collected at authorized emission testing stations approved by the department.
These Cars Are Now Exempted From Emission Tests
The Punjab government has clarified that certain vehicle categories will remain exempt from mandatory emission testing to ensure convenience for low-impact users.
Vehicles Exempted from Testing:
- Electric vehicles (EVs)
- Hybrid vehicles (HEVs) that comply with emission standards
- Brand-new cars registered within the last six months
- Government emergency vehicles, including ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles
- Motorcycles under 100cc (in specific cases)
Why the Emission Testing Fee Was Introduced
Punjab’s air pollution levels have become a major concern, especially in Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala, where smog levels rise every winter. To tackle this crisis, the government has launched the vehicle emission testing initiative to:
- Reduce carbon emissions and black smoke from old cars
- Encourage vehicle owners to maintain engines properly
- Promote the use of eco-friendly vehicles
- Support the Clean Green Punjab campaign
Where to Get Your Vehicle Tested
Vehicle owners can visit authorized emission testing centers across major cities. These centers are managed by the Punjab Transport Department in collaboration with Environment Protection and Climate Change Department (EPCCD).
Major Testing Locations:
- Lahore: Thokar Niaz Baig, Walton Road, and Shahdara
- Faisalabad: Jhang Road and Canal Expressway centers
- Rawalpindi: Murree Road and Islamabad-adjacent test points
- Multan: Bosan Road facility
What Happens During the Emission Test
The emission test involves checking your car’s exhaust gases, fuel system, and engine performance to ensure they meet the permitted pollution limits.
Test Steps:
- Technicians connect the exhaust system to a gas analyzer.
- They measure CO₂, CO, and hydrocarbon levels.
- Your vehicle either passes or fails based on the emission output.
- A pass certificate is issued if the results meet the legal limit.
If the car fails, the owner must repair or tune the vehicle and retest within a specific period.
What Happens If You Don’t Get Your Car Tested
Failure to comply with emission testing can result in:
- Hefty fines during traffic checks
- Registration renewal issues
- Legal penalties for repeat violations
- Possible vehicle impoundment in extreme cases
The authorities have already instructed traffic wardens and inspection teams to verify emission certificates during regular vehicle inspections.
Reactions from the Public and Auto Experts
Many car owners appreciate the initiative for a cleaner environment, while some expressed concerns about extra costs and testing delays.
Auto experts, however, believe that the fee is reasonable and the policy will encourage better vehicle maintenance.
“Even small fees like Rs. 500 or Rs. 800 can make a big difference in keeping our cities cleaner,” said a Lahore-based automotive engineer.
Future Plans and Digital Integration
The Punjab government also plans to digitize the emission testing process by linking test results with vehicle registration databases.
Through this step, law enforcement will be able to track non-compliant vehicles online, improving transparency and efficiency.
Summary — Emission Fee at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | November 10, 2025 |
| Authority | Punjab Environment Protection & Climate Change Department |
| Applicable To | All private and commercial vehicles |
| Exempted Vehicles | EVs, Hybrids, Emergency Vehicles |
| Purpose | To reduce air pollution and promote eco-friendly driving |
Conclusion
The Punjab emission testing fee marks a significant step toward environmental sustainability. While it adds a small cost for vehicle owners, it brings a major benefit for public health and clean air.
With increasing smog and pollution, such initiatives are essential to ensure that every car on Punjab’s roads is environmentally compliant.
