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How to Register a New Vehicle

Bought a new car from a dealership? Registration must be done within 30 days of purchase. Here is the complete process through Excise and Taxation.

Excise⏱ 1–2 hours at office💰 Token tax + registration fee (varies by engine size)
  • Original computerized sales invoice from the dealership
  • Dealership delivery letter
  • Original CNIC of the owner
  • CNIC photocopy
  • Customs clearance certificate (for imported vehicles)
  • Insurance certificate
  • Bank draft or fee payment receipt for token tax and registration fee
1
Get your documents from the dealership
The dealership should hand you a sales invoice and a delivery letter. These are mandatory for registration. If the vehicle is imported, you also need a customs clearance certificate (PSW/MCC). Make sure the chassis number on the invoice matches the vehicle.
2
Get the vehicle insured
Third-party insurance is mandatory before registration. You can get it from any insurance company — it typically costs PKR 3,000–8,000 per year. Bring the insurance certificate to the Excise office.
3
Calculate and pay your token tax
Token tax is based on engine capacity (cc). Pay via bank challan at a designated bank, or online through Punjab/Sindh/KPK e-services portals. Keep the original stamped challan.
4
Visit your Excise and Taxation office
Go to the Excise and Taxation office in the district where you live (not where the dealership is). Bring all documents. Most offices open at 9 AM and process registration on a first-come basis.
5
Submit documents at the counter
Hand over the sales invoice, delivery letter, CNIC, insurance certificate, and fee challan. Staff will enter the vehicle details into the system and verify the chassis number against the national database.
6
Vehicle inspection (if required)
Some offices require physical inspection of the vehicle — they verify the chassis and engine numbers match the documents. Bring the vehicle on the day if possible.
7
Collect number plates and registration book
A temporary registration may be issued the same day. The official registration book (log book) and embossed number plates are typically ready within 2–4 weeks. You will be notified by SMS.
  • Register within 30 days of purchase — late registration attracts a penalty
  • Bring the vehicle for inspection on the day to avoid a second trip
  • The chassis number on your invoice must exactly match the vehicle — check before leaving the dealership
  • Online registration is now available in Punjab via the Excise Punjab app
  • Keep the registration book in the vehicle at all times once received
Can I drive the car before it is registered?
Technically no, but dealers typically provide a temporary gate pass valid for a few days. Register as soon as possible.
What if I live in a different city than where I bought the car?
Register at the Excise office in your home district (where your CNIC address is), not where the dealership is located.
How much is the token tax?
It varies by province and engine size. As a rough guide in Punjab: up to 1000cc PKR 1,500/yr, 1001–1300cc PKR 4,000/yr, above 1300cc higher rates apply. Check the Excise Punjab website for the latest schedule.
Last updated: 2026-03-20. Requirements and fees can change — always verify with the official office before visiting.