Learn how to check vehicle insurance status and expiry date using your vehicle number, the insurer app or Parivahan. Simple steps. Get a quote today.
You can check your vehicle insurance status using your vehicle number. Use the insurer's website or app, or the government Vahan / Parivahan service. You can also look at the policy copy sent by your insurer on email or SMS.
It takes only a few minutes, and it can save you from a fine or a rejected claim.
Why should you check your insurance status?
Your policy has an expiry date. If it expires, the vehicle is uninsured from the next minute. Driving without valid insurance can lead to a fine of ₹2,000 and/or up to 3 months in jail for a first offence. For a repeat offence, it is ₹4,000 and/or up to 3 months.
An expired policy is also a common reason for claim rejection. So it is wise to check the status often, and always before a long trip. Read our post on the penalty for riding without insurance to know more.
Method 1: Check the policy copy
The simplest way is to look at the policy copy. After you buy or renew, the insurer usually sends it on your email or SMS.
Open the document and look for these details:
- Policy number.
- Vehicle number and details.
- Policy start date and end date.
- Type of cover: third-party or comprehensive.
- Add-ons chosen.
- IDV (Insured Declared Value).
Save the PDF on your phone and keep a printed copy in the vehicle if you can.
Method 2: Use the insurer's website or app
If you know which insurer you bought from, open their website or app. Most insurers let you log in with your mobile number or policy number. You can then view your policy, expiry date and renewal link.
If you have forgotten your insurer's name, search your email and SMS inbox for words like "policy", "insurance" or your vehicle number.
Method 3: Use Vahan / Parivahan
The government Vahan / Parivahan service lets you search by vehicle number. It can show details linked to your vehicle, such as insurance information. Steps may change over time, so follow the instructions on the official page.
Keep in mind that the data shown there depends on what insurers update. If you see an old or missing record after a recent renewal, check with your insurer.
Steps to check the status
Follow these simple steps.
- Keep your vehicle registration number ready.
- Search your email or SMS for the policy copy first.
- If you cannot find it, open the insurer's website or app.
- If you do not know the insurer, try the Vahan / Parivahan service.
- Note the policy end date.
- Set a reminder at least 15 to 30 days before the end date.
If you cannot find any valid policy, contact us through the faq page or get a quote right away.
What if your policy has expired?
If your policy has expired, act fast. The insurer may ask for a vehicle inspection before renewing an expired policy. Your No Claim Bonus (NCB) may also be lost after a long gap.
NCB is a discount on the own-damage premium for claim-free years. Insurers usually allow renewal within about 90 days of expiry to keep NCB, but check your policy. Until you renew, do not drive the vehicle.
Our guide on how to renew expired car insurance shows the steps. For bikes, visit bike insurance. For all vehicles, use the renew vehicle insurance page.
Check more than the date
While you check the status, also look at the other details.
- Is the name of the owner correct?
- Is the vehicle number correct?
- Is the vehicle type right? A private-car policy is not valid for commercial use.
- Is the IDV fair? IDV is the market value of your vehicle agreed with the insurer. It is the most you get for total loss or theft.
- Are the add-ons what you wanted?
Wrong or hidden facts can lead to a rejected claim, so fix any error early by asking the insurer.
If you bought a used vehicle
If you bought a used vehicle, the old policy must be transferred to you. The Motor Vehicles Act gives 14 days to inform the insurer after the transfer. The seller's NCB does not go to the buyer. Check that the policy is in your name. See our post on transferring insurance when buying a used vehicle.
Make it a habit
Put the expiry date in your phone calendar. Set two reminders. Keep a digital copy of your policy in your email and cloud folder. Do this for every vehicle you own.
Rules and portal steps can change. Your policy document is final.
FAQs
Can I check insurance status with only my vehicle number?
Yes, in most cases. The insurer's site or app and the Vahan / Parivahan service usually allow a search by vehicle number.
What if the portal shows no policy but I have paid?
Contact your insurer with your payment proof and policy number. Records may take time to update.
How early should I renew?
Before the expiry date. Renewing on time helps you keep your NCB and avoid a gap in cover.
Can I drive if my policy expired yesterday?
No. The vehicle is uninsured from the next minute after expiry. Renew first.
This guide is for information only. Rules and policy terms can change, and the policy document is final. Please read your policy wording.