How to register a new car in Punjab and get a number plate
New vehicles are registered with the Excise & Taxation Department of the province where you live. Punjab's process is online-first through e-Pay and the Excise portal.
Documents
- Sales invoice / delivery order from the dealer
- Sales certificate and Form 'F'
- CNIC copy
- Proof of address (utility bill)
- Filer status (affects withholding tax)
Costs (indicative)
| Item | Basis |
|---|---|
| Registration fee | 1–4% of vehicle value by engine size |
| Withholding tax (section 231B) | Slab by engine capacity; roughly double for non-filers |
| Token tax | Annual, by engine size |
| Number plate | Fixed fee |
Filer vs non-filer differences alone can exceed Rs 100,000 on a 1,500 cc car, see how to become a filer.
Steps
- Dealer provides invoice and Form F.
- Generate a PSID on the Punjab e-Pay app for registration fee, withholding tax and token tax; pay via bank app.
- Submit the file at the Excise office (or via the dealer) with payment receipts.
- Physical inspection of chassis and engine numbers.
- Registration book (or smart card) and number plate are issued; plates are delivered by post in Lahore.
Timelines
7–15 working days in Lahore; longer in smaller districts.
After registration
Token tax is due annually, pay it through e-Pay to avoid a penalty. Selling the car requires a transfer of ownership at Excise; keep the original book safe.
Frequently asked questions
- Can the dealer register the car for me?
- Yes, most dealers offer registration as a service for a fee; the taxes are the same.
- What is the difference between registration in Punjab and Islamabad?
- Islamabad registration is handled by ICT Excise and often faster; token tax rates differ slightly.
Sources
- Excise, Taxation & Narcotics Control Department Punjab: Government of Punjab
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