Match the exact model, not only the product family
Start with the manufacturer name and the complete model or variant proposed in the quote. Ask for the corresponding approval record and compare that exact identity with the latest public list from the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). A familiar brand name or a brochure that says “AIS-140” is not a model-level cross-check.
ARAI’s published vehicle tracking system list carries an “as on” date. Check the date on the current ARAI page, then save the precise model entry and the document reference you reviewed. If a product name, suffix or variant differs, ask the supplier to explain the difference in writing instead of assuming two names refer to the same approved unit.
Check vehicle fit and installation as a separate step
AIS-140 Amendment 2 describes approval at device level and says fitting or retrofitting an approved device is subject to the standard’s installation requirements. That makes the proposed vehicle and installation plan a separate buyer check. Ask the installer or vehicle provider to confirm the exact vehicle model and configuration, power connection, mounting location and any relevant interface or emergency-button arrangement for your deployment.
Do not infer that an entry on a device list proves a particular vehicle is ready to use. Record who confirmed the fit, what vehicle configuration they reviewed and which installation conditions remain open. If the vehicle changes, have the responsible installer check the new configuration rather than copying the previous answer.
Ask who handles activation and the operating handoff
A model record does not tell you which backend or control-room process your operation uses, who provisions the device, how connectivity is arranged, or which party confirms that activation is complete. Ask the supplier, installer and relevant transport authority which steps apply to your vehicle class, permit and location. Keep the answer specific to your deployment; do not assume one state or fleet’s process applies everywhere.
Define what “active” means before delivery: for example, installation recorded, the appropriate authorized system can see the expected test status, and a named person has confirmed the handoff. The parties responsible for your deployment should specify the safe test method. Do not send an unplanned emergency signal or use a live public-safety workflow to test equipment.
Use one written check before you order
Put the exact device identity, ARAI record date, vehicle configuration, installation owner, activation owner and unresolved conditions on a single checklist. Mark each item verified, pending or not applicable, and attach the private evidence only in your controlled procurement or installation record. A blank public worksheet should contain no vehicle identifiers, private approval documents or contact details.
If any answer depends on the vehicle, installer, backend or local authority, keep it open until that party confirms it. A completed device-level check is useful evidence, but it does not by itself establish vehicle fitment, successful activation, universal regulatory coverage or SafarTrak approval of every model or configuration.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a GPS tracker is AIS-140 approved?
Get the exact manufacturer and full model or variant from the quote and match it against the latest vehicle tracking system list published by ARAI, noting the list's 'as on' date. A brand name or a brochure that says AIS-140 is not a model-level check.
Does an ARAI-approved AIS-140 device mean my vehicle is compliant?
No. Approval is at device level. Fitting the device to your specific vehicle must follow the standard's installation requirements, and activation with the relevant backend or authority is a separate step, so confirm the vehicle fit and the activation handoff in writing.
Who activates an AIS-140 GPS tracker?
It depends on your vehicle class, permit and location. Ask the supplier, the installer and the relevant transport authority which steps apply and who confirms activation is complete, and agree before delivery what 'active' means for your deployment.
What should an AIS-140 buyer checklist include?
The exact device identity, the date of the ARAI record you checked, the vehicle configuration, who owns installation, who owns activation, and any open conditions, with each item marked verified, pending or not applicable.
Sources and further reading
ARAI’s public list and AIS-140 amendment are primary reference examples; verify the latest records and your own installation and backend arrangements. This article does not establish a universal mandate, state coverage, or approval for any SafarTrak model.
- Download the blank AIS-140 model, fit and activation checklist (CSV)
- ARAI: current CMVR approved-components and vehicle-tracking-system list
- ARAI: AIS-140 approved VLT list, dated 15 September 2026
- MoRTH: AIS-140 Amendment 2 (device approval and installation requirements)
- Review SafarTrak’s existing AIS-140 product information
BRING IT TO YOUR FLEET
Start with your vehicles.
Ask the right questions.
Share your vehicle mix, existing devices and required signals with the SafarTrak team.
Review SafarTrak AIS-140 model informationDiscuss your deployment
