IMT Rules: Meaning, Example and How It Works in India

Quick definition

IMT Rules refer to the Indian Motor Tariff endorsements that customise standard motor policy cover.

What does IMT Rules mean?

IMT (Indian Motor Tariff) Rules are a numbered set of endorsements (IMT-1 to IMT-49) under the Indian Motor Tariff. They specify standardised add-ons, restrictions and clarifications that can be attached to a motor policy by reference.

For most Indian car owners, knowing IMT Rules matters at the moment of buying a policy or filing a claim. The term shows up on the policy schedule, on the claim form and on the renewal proposal, often in fine print that first-time buyers do not notice until something goes wrong.

HiZuno publishes this glossary so that customers and small-business owners can decode the language of motor insurance in plain English. As of 2026, every entry reflects current IRDAI and MoRTH rules and the prevailing practice across providers in India.

How IMT Rules applies in India

Common IMTs include IMT-22 for hazardous goods, IMT-23 for towing disabled vehicles, IMT-25 for legal liability to non-fare paying passengers and IMT-28 for personal accident cover for unnamed passengers. Each IMT has a defined wording and rate filed with IRDAI.

A real-world example

A Delhi taxi operator adds IMT-25 to cover non-fare paying passengers when running airport transfers. The endorsement is rated per the Indian Motor Tariff and printed on the policy schedule.

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Common misconceptions

What buyers often get wrong

Buyers think IMTs are obsolete since detariffing. The numbered IMTs continue to govern standard endorsements and many providers still reference them on policy schedules.

Why IMT Rules matters for the consumer

Understanding IMTs helps decode the policy schedule and compare what each provider is including under standard endorsements vs proprietary add-ons.

Smart Companion tip

Read your policy schedule line by line at issue and at renewal. If a line references IMT Rules, confirm the figures match what you discussed during the quote.

How to handle IMT Rules in practice

A simple, repeatable approach helps you stay in control whenever IMT Rules shows up in your policy paperwork or claim conversation.

Confirm the basics: verify that IMT Rules is reflected correctly on the policy schedule before you pay premium.
Cross-check with IRDAI norms: the regulator publishes the framework that governs IMT Rules, so compare what your provider has filed.
Read the policy wording: the binding contract spells out limits, exclusions and conditions in detail beyond the marketing summary.
Document everything: keep digital copies of the policy, RC, driving licence and KYC, since most disputes turn on documentation.
Ask before you assume: a 60-second call to the provider clarifies whether IMT Rules applies to your specific situation.

Related glossary terms

Frequently asked questions about IMT Rules

Are IMTs the same across providers?

Yes. IMTs are part of the regulated Indian Motor Tariff, so the wording is standardised.

Do I need to ask for IMTs separately?

Most are auto-applied based on vehicle class and use. Specific ones (like IMT-22 for hazardous goods) require a request.

Is IMT-23 useful for private cars?

Yes. IMT-23 lets the vehicle towed by a disabled vehicle of similar type be covered for liability while towing.

Are proprietary add-ons different from IMTs?

Yes. Proprietary add-ons like Zero Depreciation and Engine Protect are provider-filed, not part of the IMT numbered list.

Where can I find the IMT list?

On the IRDAI website and most provider websites under Motor Tariff documentation.

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Sources: Content based on information published by IRDAI, ARAI, MoRTH, Parivahan Sewa, General Insurance Council (GIC), and other relevant regulatory or industry sources, as applicable.

Disclaimer: Premiums and amounts shown are indicative and approximate reference figures only; the actual figure varies with the vehicle's age, No Claim Bonus, geography (RTO zone) and various other parameters. The company offers products under Motor, Health, and Commercial Insurance. For risk factors, terms and conditions, exclusions, and product features, please read the policy wording, sales brochure, and prospectus carefully before concluding a sale. Zuno General Insurance Limited | IRDAI Reg. No. 159 | CIN: U66000MH2016PLC273758 | Registered Office: 2nd Floor, Tower 3, Wing B, Kohinoor City Mall, Kohinoor City, Kirol Road, Kurla (West), Mumbai 400070 | Toll-Free: 1800 12000 | Landline: 022 42312000 (Call charges applicable) | Website: www.hizuno.com | Email: support@hizuno.com.

Section 41 of the Insurance Act, 1938: No person shall allow or offer to allow, directly or indirectly, as an inducement to any person to take out, renew, or continue an insurance policy in respect of any kind of risk relating to lives or property in India, any rebate of the whole or part of the commission payable or any rebate of the premium shown on the policy, nor shall any person taking out, renewing, or continuing a policy accept any such rebate.