TWO WHEELER TRAFFIC RULES

Important RTO Rules for Two Wheelers

Bikes have become one of the most popular and convenient modes of transportation, with over 21 core two-wheelers registered in India. Whether for daily commutes or long rides, owning a bike offers numerous benefits.

However, understanding and following RTO rules for two-wheelers is crucial for safe and responsible riding.

In this article, we’ll explore the important traffic rules for two-wheelers. Knowing these RTO rules will not only help you avoid RTO fines but also help you to be a responsible bike rider.

 

 

 

Documents Related Rules for Two Wheelers

Truly, it is required to carry the primary documents while riding a bike. Let’s have an understanding about it.

- Driving License (DL)

A driving license is a document that certifies a rider as a legal operator of the bike. Individuals above 18 years of age can apply for a driving license online or offline. RTO grants a DL on passing a driving test successfully. It is a primary mandatory document that riders must have.

- Registration Certificate (RC)

RC is a document that assures your bike registration with the RTO. RC is essential for vehicle authentication. It consists of all the bike details like manufacturer, model, engine chassis number, and bike registration number. In this, the bike owner’s information is mentioned as well. If you have misplaced the original, you can apply for a duplicate RC online or offline.

- Two-wheeler insurance (Third-Party or Comprehensive)

Bike Insurance plays a vital role in providing financial protection against an accident. Additionally, it is also advantageous to cover the bike loss due to theft, fire, or third-party damage. The cost of repairing the bike is covered under the insurance. Moreover, having insurance avoids the risk of accidents. Riding a two-wheeler without insurance is unlawful.

- Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate

PUCC is an emission certificate, which is a legally essential document while riding a two-wheeler. Pollution under control certificate is for the assessment that your bike emits carbon monoxide within a specified limit. Excess emission of carbon monoxide harms the environment and pollutes the air.

 

Traffic Related Rules for Two Wheelers

Fines for bike traffic rules violations include Rs. 1000 to Rs. 5000 for different purposes. Obeying the below RTO rules may prevent you from heavy fines. Let’s check it.

- Adhering to Speed Limits

Riding a bike at high speed is a thrill, but over speeding may lead to death. Riders often run their bikes on the racing roads, which is dangerous. It is best to avoid over speeding to prevent lives from meeting with an accident. As per the new rules, over speeding vehicles may lead to high penalties.

- Overtaking Lane Discipline Rule

Overtaking a vehicle at full speed is not safe. Especially if the roads are busy with all kinds of vehicles. During the peak hours, you might get caught in the rush. In case of an emergency, you are asked to move to the right lane. Use your indicator to signal to change direction and catch the other lane.

- Following Traffic Signals and Road Signs

In heavy traffic, multiple times, bikers carelessly move their bikes without attending to the signals. It's completely against the law. You are requested to follow the traffic signs. Neglecting may cause collisions. Attend the signals. Leave your space only when the signal turns to ‘Green’.

- Using Indicators and Rearview Mirrors

Other people's lives are as important as yours. You can avoid accidents by using indicators. Be alert about the vehicles following you. If you press the brake, the many vehicles behind you would be affected. To avoid this situation, adjusting a rearview mirror is important. Being habitual of checking the rearview mirrors is good practice.

 

Helmet Rules for Two Wheelers

Here is the specific set of rules for bike riding that must be followed.

- ISI Mark

Wearing an ISI-marked helmet manufactured by the best helmet brand assures its quality. Reducing the risk of getting your head injured, the ISI standard work. The ultimate option of wearing a superior quality helmet is a precaution and not a fashion. Riders must wear a helmet during the ride, particularly for long drives.

- Helmet for Pillion Rider

As per the new RTO rules, wearing a helmet is compulsory for a person sitting behind the rider. For safety purposes, the rule has come into force. Avoiding a helmet for a pillion may result in fines.

- Driving Rules for Two Wheelers

Now, let’s acknowledge the rules regarding driving habits.

- License and Age Restrictions

To drive a two-wheeler, the minimum age limit for acquiring a license is 18 years. Youngsters below 18 years are not allowed to ride a moped or bike. Driving without a licence is against the law and may result in fines. To prevent fines, make sure that you have a valid DL.

- Alcohol and Drug Influence

It is illegal to drive a bike or a car when intoxicated. Consuming alcohol or drugs disturbs your mind. An unbalanced mind while driving may create a nasty situation. Consuming alcohol or drugs and riding a bike is violating the rules. Do not drink alcohol while driving. 

- Mobile Phone Use Rule

Operating a mobile phone while driving is also prohibited. It is not an illegal act under section 184 of the Motor Vehicle Act. Respect the rule to avoid paying a fine worth Rs. 5000 and suspending your DL.

 

Rules for Carrying Passengers and Luggage

In India, two-wheelers are allowed to transport only two passengers. Exceeding this limit may lead to an accident. Rather, it's illegal to carry more than two passengers on a bike. Carrying excessive luggage is also not allowed as it may collide with your vehicle.

 

Parking Rules for Two-Wheelers

In India, there are strict rules for parking your vehicle. You are not allowed to park the two-wheeler in no parking zones. You must avoid parking the bike on footpaths or obstructing traffic.

Also Read: Traffic Rules for Car Drivers in India

 

Fines for Different Two Wheeler Traffic Rules Violations

The table below shows the received fine rates for violating the driving rules and regulations.

Violation	Previous Fine	Revised Fine
Absence of helmet while driving	Rs. 100	Rs. 1,000
Over speeding	Rs. 400	Rs. 1,000 - Rs. 2,000
Not having DL while driving	Rs. 500	Rs. 5,000
Drunk and Drive	Rs. 2,000	Rs. 10,000
Disrespecting Traffic Signals	Rs. 1,000	Rs. 5,000
Operating mobiles while driving	Rs. 1,000	Rs. 5,000

 

List of Documents Every Two Wheeler Owner Must Have

Here is the checklist that you must check before driving a Two-wheeler/Four Wheeler

- Driving Licence

An obligatory and prime document that legally certifies you as a mature driver by RTO.

- Registration Certificate (RC)

Essential document for vehicle verification registered with the RTO.

- Insurance Policy

Bike Insurance policy to prevent you from financial burden in case of accident.

- Pollution Under Control Certificate

PUC certificates assure that your bike is not emitting carbon monoxide beyond the limit. 

- Fitness Certificate

Riding bikes older than 15 years needs to get a fitness certificate assuring its state of driving.

- Medical Certificate

Bike riders who are above 50 years of age are asked to show their medical certificate.

 

FAQs

1. Is it mandatory to have insurance for my two-wheeler?

Yes, it is mandatory by law to have at least third-party insurance for your two-wheeler in India and riding without it can lead to fines and even license suspension.

2. Are Digital Copies of Important Documents Acceptable?

Yes, digital copies of two-wheeler documents such as the RC book, license, and PUC certificate, now get recognized as legal proof.

3. What is the penalty for riding without valid insurance?

The penalty for riding a two-wheeler without valid insurance in India is a fine of ₹2,000 for the first offense, along with the possibility of imprisonment for up to 3 months. For subsequent violations, the penalty may be doubled.

4. Can I carry a child as a pillion on my two-wheeler?

Yes, following the speed limit of 40Kmph and mandatory safety harness, you can take a child from 9 months to 4 years as a pillion.

5. What is the fine for using a mobile phone while riding?

Fines for using a mobile phone while riding a two-wheeler can go up to Rs. 5000/-.