An E-Challan (electronic challan) is a digital traffic ticket generated and recorded electronically. Traffic police issue these fines on the spot using handheld devices, or they are automatically generated via CCTV cameras and sensors that detect violations.
Each entry is logged in a central police database, reducing manual errors and increasing accountability. The system is part of the Indian government's Digital India initiative to modernize traffic management and enforcement.
💡 Digital Advantage: E-Challans eliminate paper receipts, reduce corruption, provide instant notifications, and create a centralized database of traffic violations.
Check Challan Status
Please enter a valid vehicle/DL/challan number
📅 Evolution of Traffic Challan System in India
Manual Challan System
Traffic police issued handwritten challans with carbon copies. This system was prone to errors, loss of records, and potential corruption.
Early Digital Initiatives
Some metropolitan cities began implementing basic digital systems, but these were not integrated and had limited functionality.
Integrated E-Challan System
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways launched the Integrated E-Challan System as part of the Digital India initiative.
Nationwide Implementation
The system expanded across all states and union territories with features like online payments, SMS alerts, and mobile app integration.
🔍 How to Check E-Challan Status
You can check your E-Challan status using multiple methods. The most reliable is through the official Parivahan Sewa portal.
Parivahan Website
Check your challan status on the official Parivahan Sewa portal using your vehicle number or challan number.
🔗 Visit PortalmParivahan App
Use the official mParivahan mobile app to check and pay your challans on the go.
📥 Download AppSMS Service
Send an SMS with your vehicle number to the designated number to receive challan details.
ℹ️ Learn More📝 Check E-Challan Status on Parivahan
Select Check Status Option
Click on "Check Challan Status" from the main menu or homepage.
Enter Your Details
Provide either your Vehicle Registration Number or Challan Number in the respective field.
View Your Challan Details
After verification, the system will display all pending challans associated with your vehicle along with their status.
⚠️ Important: If you don't have your challan number, you can still check using your vehicle registration number. The system will show all pending challans for that vehicle.
📄 Documents Required for Challan Verification
💳 How to Pay E-Challan Online
Paying your E-Challan online is quick, secure, and convenient. Follow these steps to complete your payment through the Parivahan portal.
Check Your Challan
First, check your challan status as described in the previous section to view your pending fines.
Choose Payment Method
Select your preferred payment method from options like Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI, or Digital Wallets.
Complete Payment
Enter your payment details and complete the transaction. You will receive a payment confirmation and receipt.
Download Receipt
Download and save the payment receipt for your records. The challan status will be updated to "Paid" in the system.
💰 Accepted Payment Methods
💡 Early Payment Benefit: Pay your challan within the first 15 days to avail a 25% discount on the fine amount in some states.
🔒 Payment Security Features
SSL Encryption
All transactions are secured with 256-bit SSL encryption to protect your financial data.
Two-Factor Authentication
Additional security layer through OTP verification on your registered mobile number.
Instant Receipts
Immediate generation of digital payment receipts with unique transaction IDs.
📋 Traffic Violations & Penalties
| Violation Type | Description | Penalty Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding | Exceeding prescribed speed limits | ₹1,000 - ₹2,000 |
| Jumping Red Light | Not stopping at red traffic signal | ₹1,000 - ₹5,000 |
| No Helmet (Rider) | Riding two-wheeler without helmet | ₹1,000 + License Suspension |
| Seat Belt Violation | Driving without seat belt | ₹1,000 |
| Driving Without License | Operating vehicle without valid license | ₹5,000 |
| Drunk Driving | Driving under influence of alcohol | ₹10,000 + Imprisonment |
| No Parking | Parking in no-parking zone | ₹500 - ₹1,000 |
| Using Mobile Phone | Using phone while driving | ₹1,000 - ₹5,000 |
🗺️ State-Specific E-Challan Information
While the E-Challan system is standardized across India, some states have specific implementations, discounts, and additional features. Here's an overview of state-specific information:
Delhi
Portal: echallan.parivahan.gov.in
Special Feature: 25% discount if paid within 15 days
Helpline: 011-25844444
Maharashtra
Portal: mahatrafficechallan.gov.in
Special Feature: Additional penalties for repeat offenders
Helpline: 022-24937755
Karnataka
Portal: ksp.gov.in/echallan
Special Feature: Online learning to reduce penalty points
Helpline: 080-22253333
Tamil Nadu
Portal: tnpolice.gov.in/echallan
Special Feature: E-Challan integration with RTO services
Helpline: 044-23452467
Uttar Pradesh
Portal: uppolice.gov.in/echallan
Special Feature: WhatsApp notification service
Helpline: 0522-2204100
Gujarat
Portal: echallan.gujarat.gov.in
Special Feature: Spot payment via UPI QR codes
Helpline: 079-23251915
💸 State-Wise Early Payment Discounts
| State | Discount | Time Limit | Applicable Violations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 25% | 15 days | All minor violations |
| Maharashtra | 20% | 30 days | Non-compoundable offenses excluded |
| Karnataka | 25% | 7 days | All violations except serious offenses |
| Tamil Nadu | 15% | 15 days | Only for CCTV-detected violations |
| Uttar Pradesh | 10% | 10 days | All minor traffic violations |
| Gujarat | 30% | 7 days | All violations except drunk driving |
⚠️ Consequences of Not Paying E-Challan
Ignoring E-Challans can lead to serious legal and financial troubles. The standard deadline for payment is 60 days from the date of issue.
| Time Since Challan Issued | Consequence | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 0–60 days | Pay the original fine amount without additional penalties | ⏳ Pending |
| After 60 days | Late fees may apply; challan may be marked "Sent to Court" | ⚠️ Overdue |
| Further non-payment | Police may visit to serve a court summons; possible vehicle impoundment | ⚖️ Court Case |
| Long-term non-payment | Driving license suspension, vehicle registration issues, legal action | 🚫 License Suspended |
⚠️ Legal Notice: Unpaid challans can prevent you from renewing your driving license or vehicle registration. It's advisable to clear all pending fines promptly.
⚖️ Legal Implications of Unpaid Challans
License Suspension
Accumulating multiple unpaid challans can lead to suspension of your driving license for specified periods.
Vehicle Registration Block
Your vehicle registration may be blocked, preventing transfer of ownership or renewal of registration.
Court Proceedings
Unpaid challans may be forwarded to court, requiring your appearance and potential additional penalties.
⚖️ How to Dispute a Wrong E-Challan
If you believe you have received a challan incorrectly, you can dispute it through the following process:
Gather Evidence
Collect any evidence that supports your claim, such as photos, witness statements, or documents proving your vehicle was elsewhere.
Visit the Grievance Portal
Go to the official e-challan website and look for "Grievance System" or "Dispute Challan" option.
Submit Your Claim
Provide your vehicle number or challan number and clearly describe the issue. Upload any supporting evidence.
Note Reference Number
Keep the tracking number provided to monitor your complaint's status. The authorities will review your dispute and respond.
Follow Up
If you don't receive a response within 15-30 days, follow up using your reference number or contact the traffic police helpline.
💡 Dispute Tip: You can also visit your local traffic police station with your evidence to dispute the challan in person. Be polite and present your case clearly.
📋 Common Grounds for Challan Dispute
Vehicle Not in Use
If your vehicle was not in use at the time of violation (stolen, sold, or under repair).
Wrong Vehicle Identification
If the challan was issued to your vehicle but another vehicle committed the violation.
Faulty Evidence
If the photographic or video evidence is unclear, incorrect, or doesn't show your vehicle clearly.
📊 E-Challan vs Traditional Challan
| Feature | E-Challan | Traditional Challan |
|---|---|---|
| Issuance Method | ✓ Digital, via handheld devices or cameras | ✗ Manual, paper-based |
| Record Keeping | ✓ Centralized digital database | ✗ Physical files, prone to loss |
| Payment Options | ✓ Multiple online methods | ✗ Mostly cash at police station |
| Transparency | ✓ High, with digital trail | ✗ Low, manual processes |
| Status Tracking | ✓ Real-time online tracking | ✗ Manual inquiry required |
| Dispute Resolution | ✓ Online grievance system | ✗ Physical visit to court/police station |
| Notification | ✓ SMS/Email alerts | ✗ No automatic notifications |
🛡️ Tips to Avoid Traffic Challans
Prevention is better than cure. Follow these rules to stay safe and avoid fines:
Wear Safety Gear
Always wear a helmet on two-wheelers and seat belts in four-wheelers.
Don't Drink & Drive
Never drink and drive. Use public transport or ride-sharing services instead.
Follow Traffic Signals
Obey all traffic signals and speed limits. Don't jump red lights.
Carry Valid Documents
Carry all valid documents (DL, RC, Insurance, PUC) in physical or digital form.
Avoid Mobile Usage
Do not use mobile phones while driving. Use hands-free if necessary.
Park Responsibly
Do not park in "No Parking" zones or block traffic.
🔧 Vehicle Maintenance Tips to Avoid Challans
Regular PUC Checks
Ensure your vehicle has a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate and renew it before expiry.
Functional Lights and Indicators
Regularly check that all lights, indicators, and horns are working properly.
Number Plate Compliance
Ensure your number plate follows the prescribed format with proper visibility and font.
Valid Insurance
Keep your vehicle insurance updated and carry proof while driving.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How long does it take for an e-challan to reflect in the system?
E-Challans typically appear in the system within 24-48 hours of being issued. However, in some cases, it might take up to a week depending on the issuing authority and system updates.
❓ Can I pay my e-challan offline?
Yes, you can pay your e-challan offline by visiting the nearest traffic police station or designated banks. However, online payment is more convenient and instant.
❓ What happens if I pay the challan after the due date?
If you pay after the due date (usually 60 days), you may have to pay additional late fees or penalties. In some cases, the challan might be forwarded to court, requiring you to appear before a judge.
❓ Is there any discount on early payment of e-challan?
Some states offer a discount (usually 25%) if you pay the challan within 15 days of issuance. Check your state's traffic police website for specific details.
❓ How can I check if my vehicle has any pending e-challans?
You can check pending e-challans by visiting the Parivahan website and entering your vehicle registration number. The system will display all pending challans for your vehicle.
❓ What should I do if I receive an e-challan for a vehicle I no longer own?
If you receive an e-challan for a vehicle you no longer own, you should dispute the challan online and provide proof of vehicle transfer/sale. You may need to visit the RTO to update the vehicle ownership records.
❓ Can I pay multiple e-challans at once?
Yes, the Parivahan portal allows you to select and pay multiple pending challans in a single transaction, making it convenient to clear all fines at once.
❓ What is the validity period of an e-challan?
An e-challan is typically valid for 60 days from the date of issue. After this period, it may be forwarded to court with additional penalties.
❓ Do I need to create an account to pay e-challan online?
No, you don't need to create an account to check or pay e-challans on the Parivahan portal. You can directly use your vehicle number or challan number to proceed with payment.
❓ What should I do if my payment fails but amount is deducted?
In case of failed payment with amount deduction, the amount is usually refunded within 7-10 working days. If not, contact the payment gateway support or your bank with the transaction reference number.
✅ Conclusion
The E-Challan system under Parivahan Sewa has revolutionized traffic management in India, making it more transparent, efficient, and citizen-friendly. With online access to check status and pay fines, dealing with traffic violations has never been easier.
Remember to regularly check for pending challans and pay them on time to avoid legal complications and additional penalties. Safe driving not only keeps you penalty-free but also ensures the safety of everyone on the road.
Parivahan Helpline
If you face any problem in driving license, document update, vehicle details check and pay your vehicle challan, you can contact using below details –
| Problem | Email ID | Contact Number | Timings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Registration, Fitness, Tax, Permit, Dealer | helpdesk-vahan[at]gov[dot]in | +91-120-4925505 | 06:00 AM - 12:00 Midnight |
| Learner License, Driving License | helpdesk-sarathi[at]gov[dot]in | N/A | N/A |
| mParivahan Services | helpdesk-mparivahan[at]gov[dot]in | N/A | N/A |
| eChallan Services | helpdesk-echallan[at]gov[dot]in | N/A | N/A |