Car Insurance – Buy, Renew & Check Policy Status Online
Easily check your car insurance status, renew expired policies, and download your digital insurance certificate online in India.
Enter Vehicle Number (e.g., MH01AB1234) to view insurance status
What Is Car Insurance?
Car insurance (motor insurance) is a financial protection policy that covers your vehicle against damage, theft, natural disasters, and third-party liabilities. It is mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act for every car owner to have at least a Third-Party Liability policy before driving on Indian roads.
A valid insurance policy not only keeps you compliant with the law but also protects you from unexpected expenses caused by accidents, fire, or natural calamities.
Types of Car Insurance Policies
Third-Party Car Insurance (Mandatory)
- Covers damage or injury caused to another person, vehicle, or property.
- Does not cover damage to your own vehicle.
- Required by law to drive legally.
Own-Damage (OD) Car Insurance
- Covers accidental damage to your own car due to fire, theft, vandalism, collision, or natural calamities.
- Can be purchased if you already have an active Third-Party policy.
Comprehensive Car Insurance (Full Coverage)
- Combines both Third-Party and Own-Damage coverage.
- Covers total loss, theft, and repairs after accidents.
- Recommended for complete peace of mind.
Key Details in a Car Insurance Policy
Your car insurance document includes:
Common Add-Ons for Car Insurance
Enhance your car insurance coverage with optional add-ons:
Zero Depreciation Cover
Get full claim for replaced parts without depreciation deduction.
Engine Protect Cover
Covers engine or gearbox damage caused by water ingression or oil leakage.
Return to Invoice (RTI)
Compensates you with the full car invoice value in case of total loss or theft.
Roadside Assistance
Provides emergency help like towing, flat tyre replacement, and jump-start.
NCB Protect
Keeps your No-Claim Bonus safe even if you make a claim once.
Consumables Cover
Covers consumables like oils, nuts, bolts, and lubricants during repairs.
What Is Not Covered in Car Insurance
How to Check Car Insurance Status Online
You can easily check your car insurance validity and details online through official government and insurer portals:
Method 1: Through Parivahan Website
- Visit parivahan.gov.in.
- Click on "Know Your Vehicle Details."
- Enter your vehicle registration number.
- View insurance expiry date, insurer name, and policy details.
Method 2: Using mParivahan Mobile App
- Download the mParivahan app from the Play Store or App Store.
- Enter your vehicle number.
- View RC details, fitness status, and insurance validity in one place.
Method 3: Through Digilocker
- Go to digilocker.gov.in or open the app.
- Link your Aadhaar.
- Go to "Issued Documents."
- Download your digital car insurance certificate (if issued by insurer).
Method 4: Through the Insurance Information Bureau (IIB)
- Visit iib.gov.in
- Click "Vehicle Insurance Status."
- Enter your vehicle registration number, email ID, and mobile number.
- Check if your car is insured and view the policy details.
How to Buy Car Insurance Online
Buying car insurance online is simple and paperless:
- Visit any IRDA-approved insurance provider or aggregator website.
- Enter your vehicle number or details.
- Choose the type of insurance (Comprehensive / Third-Party).
- Customize your coverage and select add-ons.
- Pay the premium online.
- Download your policy PDF instantly.
Keep your RC, previous insurance copy, and ID proof handy during purchase.
How to Renew Car Insurance
Renewing your policy before expiry ensures continuous protection and avoids inspection requirements.
Renewal Steps:
- Visit your insurer's website or app.
- Enter your vehicle registration or policy number.
- Update details (if needed).
- Review coverage and add-ons.
- Make the payment and download your renewed policy instantly.
If your policy has expired: Your car may need a quick inspection by the insurer before reinstating Own-Damage coverage.
Car Insurance Claim Process
Cashless Claim
- Inform your insurer immediately after an accident.
- Take your car to a network garage.
- The surveyor inspects the damage.
- Repairs are done cashless; you pay only deductibles.
Reimbursement Claim
- Get repairs done at any garage of your choice.
- Submit repair bills, photos, and claim form to your insurer.
- The claim amount is credited to your bank account after verification.
Important Terms to Know
IDV (Insured Declared Value)
The maximum claim amount you can receive in case of total loss or theft.
No Claim Bonus (NCB)
Discount offered on premium for claim-free years (up to 50%).
Deductibles
The amount you pay during a claim before the insurer covers the rest.
Endorsement
Any change or update made to your existing policy.
How to Download Car Insurance Copy Online
If you lose your physical policy, you can download it easily:
From your insurer's website (log in with policy number).
From the mParivahan app or Digilocker.
From your email (check your policy PDF sent by the insurer).
Digital car insurance is legally valid and accepted by traffic police across India.
Why You Should Keep Car Insurance Updated
FAQs – Car Insurance
1. Is Third-Party Car Insurance mandatory?
Yes. Every vehicle must have at least Third-Party insurance to drive legally.
2. Can I buy car insurance online?
Yes, car insurance can be purchased online from any IRDA-approved insurance company or aggregator.
3. How do I check my car insurance expiry date?
You can check your car insurance status through Parivahan, mParivahan, Digilocker, or your insurer's website.
4. What happens if I drive without valid car insurance?
Driving without insurance is illegal and can result in fines or suspension of your driving licence.
5. Can I transfer my car insurance when selling the vehicle?
Yes, the insurance policy can be transferred to the new owner with a formal endorsement by the insurer.
6. Is a digital copy of car insurance valid?
Yes, digital car insurance copies stored in Digilocker or mParivahan are legally valid and accepted during checks.
Conclusion
Car insurance is more than a legal formality — it's your safeguard against financial loss and legal trouble. With digital services like Parivahan, mParivahan, and Digilocker, checking, renewing, and downloading your car insurance policy has become effortless.
Keep your policy active, renew it on time, and drive confidently knowing you're fully protected.