The Kerala government has cut vehicle fitness test fees by up to 50%. This comes after the Union government raised fees by introducing a three-tier classification system. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways increased fees under the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (Fifth Amendment), effective November 17, 2025. Kerala's Motor Vehicles Department began enforcing the new rates. Vehicle owners and transport groups protested, calling the hike excessive for vehicles over 15 years old, most common in public transport fleets. Responding to concerns, Kerala issued a gazette notification lowering fees. The explanatory note cited Union notification G.S.R. (850)(E) dated November 11, 2025, that raised fees for fitness certificate renewals by vehicle age. Officials noted, "The steep increase is likely to affect the operational viability of transport operators and the general public who rely on public transport services." Revised fees for vehicles aged 15-20 years are: ₹500 for motorcycles, ₹600 for three-wheelers, ₹1,000 for light motor vehicles, and ₹1,000 for heavy vehicles. For vehicles over 20 years, fees are ₹500 for motorcycles, ₹1,000 for three-wheelers, ₹1,300 for light motor vehicles, and ₹1,500 for heavy vehicles. This move aims to ease costs for vehicle owners and support public transport in Kerala.