How to Get a Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)

What is a Vehicle Registration Certificate?

A vehicle registration certificate, issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in India, is a crucial document that acts as evidence of a vehicle's ownership and legal registration. This document comprises vital information regarding the vehicle, such as the chassis number, engine number, the name of the owner, and various other significant details.

 

It's important to note that operating a vehicle on public roads without a valid registration certificate is considered illegal and can result in substantial fines.

 

How to Apply for a Vehicle Registration Certificate

Getting a vehicle registration certificate is quite straightforward. Whether you're purchasing a new car or registering a used vehicle, here are the steps to follow:

1.Visit your nearest RTO office along with your vehicle.

2. The inspecting officer will examine your vehicle.

3. Fill out the application form for the RC by completing Form 20

4. The inspecting officer will then make a pencil impression of the chassis number.

5. Provide all required documents when submitting documents.

6. Make the payment for the registration fees and obtain a receipt.

7. Finally, the RTO will dispatch your vehicle registration certificate through the post.

Following these steps carefully will ensure a smooth process in obtaining your RC.

 

What is Included in the Vehicle Registration Certificate?

Your vehicle registration certificate includes the following details:

1. Vehicle owner’s name and address

2. Vehicle model and make

3. Chassis number and engine number

4. Date of registration

5. Vehicle class and fuel type

6. RTO code

The data in the RC is crucial for legal and insurance purposes. It ensures that your vehicle’s information is correctly recorded in government records.

 

Documents Required for Registration Certificate

When applying for a vehicle registration certificate, you'll need to ensure you have all the necessary paperwork in order. This documentation is critical as it serves to confirm the vehicle's ownership and your legal entitlement to operate it. These are some of the documents required for vehicle registration:

1. Application in Form 20

2. Sales certificate in Form 21

3. Roadworthiness certificate in Form 22 from the manufacturers

4. Pollution under control certificate

5. Valid insurance certificate

6. Proof of address (Aadhaar card, Ration card, Electricity bill etc.)

7. Temporary registration, if any

8. Form 34  (in case of HP endorsement)

9. Copy of PAN card of Form 60 and Form 61 (as applicable)

10. Dealer and manufacturer invoice

11. Passport size photographs

12. Proof of Date of Birth

13. Chassis & Engine Pencil Print

14. Form-A under the Taxation Act, 1997

Having these documents ready when applying for an RC can expedite the process and reduce delays.

 

What Are the Types of Vehicle Registration Certificates?

There are generally two types of RCs in India:

1. Temporary Registration: For new vehicles, the dealer will provide temporary registration, which is valid for one month. Within this period, you are required to submit an application for permanent registration.
 

2. Permanent Registration: This long-term RTO-issued registration is required to operate your vehicle legally.

 

What is the Process for Applying for an RC Smart Card?

The RC Smart Card is a plastic card that has a microchip with all the details of your vehicle embedded in it. Here’s how to apply for one:

1. Visit your RTO with the required documents.

2. Fill out the application form (Form 20).

3. Pay the necessary fees.

4. Submit your vehicle for inspection, if required.

The RTO usually takes around 15 days to process your application, and you’ll receive your RC Smart Card at your registered postal address.

 

What is the Cost of Vehicle Registration?

The fees for vehicle registration are specified under Rule 81 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989. The fees vary depending on the type of vehicle as well. Here are the fees specified:

Type of vehicle	Registration Fees
Motorcycle	₹300
Three-wheeler/Quadricycle/Light Motor Vehicles (Non-transport)	₹600
Three-wheeler/Quadricycle/Light Motor Vehicles (Transport)	₹1000
Medium goods vehicle	₹1000
Medium passenger motor vehicle	₹1000
Heavy goods vehicle	₹1500
Heavy passenger motor vehicle	₹1500
Imported motor vehicle	₹5000
Imported motorcycle	₹2500
Any other vehicle not mentioned above	₹3000

 

How to Get a Duplicate Vehicle Registration Certificate

Losing your vehicle’s RC can be stressful, as it is an essential document to keep on your person while driving. However, you can always apply for a duplicate Registration Certificate. Here is what needs to be done:

1. As soon as possible after losing your RC, lodge an FIR at your local police station.

2. Submit Form 26 to the RTO, along with a copy of the FIR and insurance documents.

3. Pay the duplicate RC fee, which is half the registration fee for your vehicle.

4. You will receive your duplicate vehicle registration certificate at your registered postal address within a few weeks.

 

You can also apply for a duplicate RC through the Vahan portal by Parivahan Seva, an initiative of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

 

Documents Required for Duplicate Registration Certificate

Here are some of the documents required for applying a duplicate registration certificate:

1. Application in Form 26

2. Police certificate

3. Pollution under control certificate

4. Valid insurance certificate

5. Proof of address

6. Challan clearance from traffic police & Enforcement Wing Transport Department in commercial vehicles

7. Tax clearance from the Accounts Department in commercial vehicles

8. Attested copy of PAN Card or Form 60 & Form 61(as applicable)

9. Chassis & Engine Pencil Print

10. Signature identification of the owner

11. Affidavit stating that RC is lost and has not been impounded

 

How to Track the Status of Registration Certificate Online?

To track the status of your vehicle registration certificate online, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Parivahan e-service portal and click on the 'Online Service' section.

2. Select 'Vehicle-Related Services' and choose the state where the vehicle was registered from the drop-down menu.

3. Pick the appropriate State RTO and click on the 'Status' option.

4. Click on 'Know Your Application Status,' enter your application number, and click 'Submit.'

5. Finally, click 'View Report' to display your RC details on the screen.

 

In Conclusion

Obtaining a vehicle registration certificate is a crucial process for every car owner in India. By gathering the necessary documents, submitting an application, and visiting the RTO, you can obtain your RC and drive legally on Indian roads.

 

It's essential to have your vehicle properly registered, but it's just as crucial to protect it with the right insurance. Shriram General Insurance provides cost-effective and comprehensive car insurance plans with various add-ons to ensure your vehicle is adequately protected. With our quick claim process and dedicated customer support, you can drive with peace of mind. Whether you're purchasing a new car or a pre-owned one, Shriram General Insurance has got you covered.

 

FAQs

1. What is a Vehicle Registration Certificate?

A vehicle registration certificate, issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in India, is a crucial document that acts as evidence of a vehicle's ownership and legal registration. This document comprises vital information regarding the vehicle, such as the chassis number, engine number, the name of the owner, and various other significant details.

 

2. What happens if I lose my Vehicle Registration Certificate?

You can apply for a Duplicate Vehicle Registration Certificate if you lose your RC. Visit the RTO with a filled-out application form (Form 26), submit the required documents, and pay the necessary fee. A duplicate RC will be issued after verification.

 

3. Can I drive with a temporary registration while waiting for the permanent RC?

Yes, you can drive your vehicle with a temporary registration, which is usually valid for up to 30 days. However, to avoid any penalties, make sure to complete the process for your permanent vehicle registration certificate within this period.

 

4. Can I update my address on the RC? What’s the process?

Yes, you can change the address on your RC by submitting an application to the RTO. You’ll need to complete Form 33, provide proof of your new address, and pay a nominal fee. After verification, the updated RC will be dispatched.

 

5. Is there a validity period for the Vehicle Registration Certificate?

The validity of the registration certificate for private vehicles in India is typically 15 years from the date of issuance. After this period, you can renew the RC for another 5 years, provided the vehicle passes a fitness test at the RTO. Commercial vehicle RCs are valid for 2 years and require more frequent renewals.