Diwali 2026 Road Trip Checklist: Check Your Documents Before Hitting the Highway

Diwali road trips are a chance to reconnect with family, explore new destinations and enjoy the festive season. But before hitting the highway, drivers should prioritise challan checking verify vehicle documents and inspect their cars. An expired insurance policy, an invalid PUC certificate or an overlooked traffic fine can create unnecessary trouble during a holiday journey.

Here’s a practical checklist to help you prepare your vehicle for Diwali 2026.

1. Check Your RC Details

Your Registration Certificate (RC) contains essential information about your vehicle, including its registration number and identification details. Before departure, confirm that the information is accurate and that you can access the required documents.

Particularly important if you recently purchased a used vehicle or completed an ownership transfer. You can use MyMotor's RC details to access relevant vehicle information conveniently.

2. Verify Vehicle Insurance

A valid insurance policy is essential before starting a long drive. Check your vehicle insurance expiry date and arrange renewal if necessary. Keep your policy information and insurer’s contact details accessible in case you need assistance during the journey.

3. Complete a PUC Check

A valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is an important vehicle-compliance requirement, subject to applicable rules and exemptions. Check your PUC certificate’s validity before travelling and arrange an authorised emissions test if renewal is due.

4. Check Pending E-Challans Online

Traffic fines from previous commutes or camera-recorded violations can be easy to overlook. Before leaving, complete your pending challan checking to identify any outstanding fines.

Visit the official Parivahan e-Challan portal to check available challan details. You can also use MyMotor to access relevant information. 

MyMotor supports echallan checking across 20+ Indian states. Drivers can explore relevant state services, including UP Challan Check, eChallan Rajasthan, challan check Kerala, echallan Punjab, echallan Gujarat and WB Challan.

5. Check FASTag and Driving Documents

If you are travelling on national highways, check your FASTag balance and account status before departure. Insufficient balance or account-related issues may complicate toll payments, so resolve them in advance.

Also, verify that your driving licence is valid and keep your RC, insurance & PUC documents accessible. Accepted digital document services can be useful, but ensure your documents are available before starting the journey.

6. Inspect Your Vehicle Before the Trip

Document checks are only part of road-trip preparation. Inspect tyre pressure, brakes, headlights, indicators and essential fluid levels. Carry basic emergency supplies and plan fuel stops in advance.

Electric vehicle owners should identify suitable EV charging stations and consider backup charging options. 

Your Diwali Road Trip Checklist

Before setting off, confirm that you have:

• Checked RC details and driving licence validity.

• Verified insurance and PUC certificate status.

• Completed pending challan checking.

• Checked FASTag balance and account status.

• Inspected tyres, brakes and lights.

• Planned your route, fuel or EV charging stops.

Final Thoughts

A little preparation can make a big difference to your Diwali travel experience. By checking vehicle documents, resolving pending e-challans, verifying FASTag and inspecting your car, you can reduce avoidable disruptions and focus on reaching your destination safely.