Vehicles without Green Stickers To Face Now Strict Crackdown
As per latest updates vehicles without Green Stickers to experience strict crackdown and penalities. A green sticker is a certification issued by the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that proves a vehicle has passed the emission test. Vehicles that meet the required standards for carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and smoke levels are given this sticker.
If your car does not have a green sticker, the EPA considers it a pollution risk and imposes penalties.The Punjab government launched this initiative to reduce smog, especially in Lahore, which ranks among the world’s most polluted cities.
A green sticker in Punjab is proof that your vehicle passed the emission test, ensuring it meets EPA pollution standards
EPA Crackdown 2025 – What Changed After August 31 Deadline?
Until August 31, 2025, vehicle emission testing was free of cost. More than 350,000 stickers were issued during this period. After the deadline, the EPA announced a strict crackdown.
Smog season (October–January) causes major health and transport disruptions, so the EPA launched the crackdown. EPA officials say unchecked vehicles contribute most to smog.
In contrast to earlier years, this time the EPA is coordinating with Punjab Police and the Lahore Traffic Police for real-time enforcement.
Penalties for Vehicles Without Green Stickers
The EPA is conducting the crackdown in phases against vehicles without green stickers to ensure gradual enforcement.
| Phase | Action | Targeted Vehicles |
|---|---|---|
| First Phase | Warning slips + E-challans | Vehicles 2010–2015 models |
| Second Phase | Heavy fines, legal action | All non-compliant vehicles |
| Final Stage | Road restrictions | Persistent offenders, banned in Lahore during smog season |
Vehicles without green stickers face warnings in phase one, fines and challans in phase two, and road bans in phase three.
First Phase – Warning Slips and E-Challans
In the first phase, vehicles manufactured between 2010–2015 were issued warning slips. Drivers also received E-challans linked to their vehicle records.
Second Phase – Fines, Bans, and Legal Action
From September onward, vehicles without stickers face on-the-spot fines. In Lahore, such vehicles may also be barred from entry during smog season. Persistent violators risk having their vehicles impounded.
How to Get a Green Sticker for Your Vehicle
Getting a green sticker is a simple but mandatory process:
- Visit the nearest emission testing booth set up by EPA Punjab.
- Provide your vehicle registration documents.
- Pay the required testing fee (if applicable).
- Undergo the emission test.
- If your vehicle passes, a green sticker will be issued on the spot.
👉 Pro Tip: Carry your CNIC and vehicle registration book/card for hassle-free processing.
Emission Test Procedure Explained
The test usually takes 10–15 minutes and involves:
- Checking carbon monoxide emissions.
- Measuring hydrocarbon levels.
- Smoke density test for diesel vehicles.
- Engine and silencer performance check.
If the car meets EPA standards, the green sticker is issued. Otherwise, repairs must be made before re-testing.
Green Sticker Fee Structure in 2025
Until August 31, 2025, the emission test was free of charge. Now, drivers must pay a small fee.
| Vehicle Type | Approximate Fee |
|---|---|
| Cars & Jeeps | Rs. 500 – 700 |
| Motorcycles & Rickshaws | Rs. 200 – 300 |
| Commercial Vehicles | Rs. 800 – 1,200 |
Note: Fees may vary slightly across cities and EPA booths.
Exemptions – Do Hybrid and Electric Vehicles Need Stickers?
According to EPA officials, electric vehicles (EVs) are exempt from the green sticker requirement since they produce zero tailpipe emissions.
Hybrid vehicles, however, must undergo testing. If their combustion engine meets the standards, they will be issued a sticker.
EVs are exempt from green stickers, but hybrids still require testing.
Why Vehicle Emission Testing Is Important
Vehicle emissions are among the top contributors to Lahore’s smog. According to a 2023 WHO report, over 60,000 premature deaths in Pakistan were linked to air pollution.
Benefits of green sticker enforcement:
- Cleaner air quality.
- Reduced smog-related health risks.
- Lower fuel consumption due to better engine tuning.
- Extended vehicle life.
Common Misconceptions About Green Stickers
- ❌ “Old cars can’t pass the test.”
✔ Even old cars can pass after basic tuning. - ❌ “Motorcycles are exempt.”
✔ Motorcycles and rickshaws are also required to undergo testing. - ❌ “Bribes can get you a sticker.”
✔ EPA has shifted to digital verification. Fake stickers can lead to criminal charges.
Real-World Cases from Lahore Crackdown
- In September 2025, the EPA issued 10,000 warning slips in Lahore within the first week.
- Nearly 2,500 E-challans were generated in collaboration with the Punjab Safe Cities Authority.
- Traffic police checkpoints are actively verifying stickers.
Comparison with Other Countries’ Emission Rules
- India: Vehicles need a PUC (Pollution Under Control) Certificate every 6 months.
- UK: Cars undergo an MOT test annually.
- EU: Strict Euro 6 standards limit emissions.
👉 Lesson: Pakistan’s green sticker initiative aligns with global practices to reduce pollution.
How to Avoid Fines – Action Plan for Drivers
- Get your emission test done before smog season.
- Keep your green sticker visible on the windshield.
- Maintain engine tuning for compliance.
- Carry documents to avoid wrongful challans.
- In case of a wrong challan, file a complaint through Punjab Police’s E-Challan system.
Future of Green Stickers in Punjab (2026–2030)
The EPA has hinted at:
- Digital stickers with QR codes.
- Integration with MTMIS Punjab for online verification.
- Annual renewal requirements.
- Possible road tax discounts for compliant vehicles.
Conclusion – Stay Road Legal, Stay Green
Driving on vehicles without green stickers in Punjab can now result in fines, challans, or even a ban during smog season. On the other hand, getting a sticker is affordable, quick, and beneficial for both your vehicle and the environment.
👉 Take action today: Get your emission test done, secure your green sticker, and drive worry-free.
FAQs on Vehicles Without Green Stickers
Q1: What is a green sticker in Punjab?
A green sticker proves that your vehicle passed the EPA emission test and meets pollution standards.
Q2: Where can I get emission testing in Lahore?
At EPA Punjab’s testing booths set up across Lahore and other major cities.
Q3: How much does a green sticker cost in 2025?
Cars: Rs. 500–700, Motorcycles: Rs. 200–300, Commercial vehicles: Rs. 800–1,200.
Q4: What happens if I drive without a sticker?
You may face challans, heavy fines, and entry bans in Lahore during smog season.
Q5: Are motorcycles and rickshaws included?
Yes, two- and three-wheelers also require green stickers.
Q6: Do hybrid/electric cars need green stickers?
Electric vehicles are exempt, but hybrids must undergo testing.
Q7: Is the emission test the same for diesel and petrol cars?
Yes, but diesel cars undergo an additional smoke density check.
Also read: New NEV Policy in Pakistan 2025-30: The Complete Guide