Petrol Pump License Eligibility

In order to promote the transparency in awarding of petrol pump license and franchise by Oil Marketing Companies, a new dealer selection process has been formulated. Under the new process, the applicant is first checked against pre-established eligibility criteria. All applicants conforming to the eligibility criteria are selected for the next round, wherein lots are drawn or a bidding process is used to select the dealer. Hence, eligibility criteria now play an important role in the determination of the petrol pump dealer.

Setting up a petrol pump in India involves a structured process, and obtaining a license is a crucial step in this venture. With the increasing demand for fuel across the country, the petrol pump business presents a lucrative opportunity. However, navigating the licensing procedures is vital for a smooth establishment.

To initiate this process, individuals or entities must adhere to the guidelines laid out by the government. The licensing authority, typically the State Level Coordinator of Oil Industry & Petroleum Planning, governs the issuance of petrol pump licenses. The application process encompasses various stages, including eligibility checks, site feasibility assessments, and compliance with safety standards.

License for Petroleum Service Station

Basic Requirements For Opening An Indian Petrol Pump

To be eligible for a fuel pump license and open a petrol station in India, one must meet specific requirements outlined by Income Tax regulations. 

  • The applicant must be an Indian citizen and a resident of India, having spent at least 182 days in the country during the preceding fiscal year to qualify for the citizen of India certificate. 
  • Additionally, the candidate should fall within the age bracket of 21 to 55. 

Note – Supporting documents such as a photocopy of the individual’s birth certificate, secondary school graduation certificate, 10th standard board credential, passport, age document, or an identification card issued by the election commission must be submitted as proof of the individual’s age.

What is the minimum education requirement to open a petrol pump in India?

All applicants making an application for a petrol pump dealership must have basic education. Rural petrol pump applicants who are SC/ST or OBC must have passed minimum 10th standard and all other applicants must have passed a minimum 10+2 level of examination. In case of an application under an open category, the applicant must have passed a minimum 10+2 level of examination for rural petrol pumps. For open category applicants other than rural areas, the applicant must have an educational qualification from any of the universities under an Act of the Central or State Legislature in India or any other educational institution under an Act of Parliament or to be as Deemed University.

Hence, for open category applicants other than rural areas, it requires a Graduation in any field or Chartered Accountant or Company Secretary or Cost Accountant or Diploma in Engineering.

What Are the Criteria for Opening a Petrol Pump?

  • The person must be an Indian citizen.
  • The applicant should be a resident of India, meaning they must have stayed in India for more than 182 days in the preceding financial year.
  • The age of the applicant must be between 21 and 58 years.
  • Individuals classified as freedom fighters are not eligible.
  • A valid identification document is mandatory.

How Much Money Required for a Petrol Pump License?

To obtain a petrol pump license in India, candidates must demonstrate the financial capacity to invest a minimum of Rs. 25 lakhs for a standard petrol pump and Rs. 12 lakhs for a rural petrol pump.

Institutional investors can use various methods such as bonds, shares of listed companies in demat form, national savings certificates, deposits with banks, registered companies, postal schemes, shares of mutual funds, and more to meet the investment requirement. 

It’s important to note that assets with unproven provenance, such as IOUs and jewellery, will not be considered. Additionally, only 60% of the total value of shares, collective investment schemes, and notes will be considered in the assessment. Additionally, a Chartered Accountant must provide the necessary investment assessment certification for the petrol pump license application.

How Much Land Required for Petrol Pump Dealership?

Securing land is a crucial step in establishing and operating a petrol pump or gas station. The process involves several factors, and prospective business owners should have a thorough understanding of the complexities involved. When considering a petrol pump dealership, one of the key criteria is land acquisition. Here are the essential factors related to land acquisition:

  1. Proximity to the Highway:

The land should ideally be located alongside a highway, ensuring easy accessibility for customers.

  1. Ownership or Rental Contract:

Candidates must either own the land or have a valid rental contract for a suitable property near the proposed site.

  1. Formal Offer for Acquisition:

Preferential consideration is given to candidates who have a formal offer for acquiring or entering a long-term rental agreement for a suitable piece of land.

  1. Documentation:

Applicants must provide various documents demonstrating ownership of the property or their intent to acquire the specified piece of land. The size of the land should meet the specified requirements.

  1. Property Improvement:

If selected for the petrol pump franchise, applicants must enhance the property to street level by appropriate earthwork procedures. This includes creating a concrete structure and a composite wall with a minimum height of 1.5 meters, considering soil conditions.

Understanding and fulfilling these criteria are essential steps in the land acquisition process for establishing a petrol pump dealership.

FAQs

What is the total cost to open a petrol pump?

The total cost to open a petrol pump in India can range from Rs. 15-20 lakhs for a new business, depending on the location and type of retail outlet.

What is the license fee for petrol pump in India?

The license fee for a petrol pump dealership in India ranges from Rs. 18/KL to Rs. 48/KL for motor spirit, depending on the category of the retail outlet.

Can I sell petrol without a license?

No, it is illegal to sell petrol without a license in India. A petrol pump business requires various licenses and permits to operate legally and in compliance with regulations

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