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Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)

Official registration document for vehicles

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Quick Information

⏱️ Processing Time

7-30 days

💵 Fees

₹300-600 (varies by vehicle type and state)

✅ Eligibility

Anyone purchasing a new or used vehicle

Who Needs This Document?

All vehicle owners for legal operation of vehicles on Indian roads

Required Documents

  • Form 20 (Application for registration)
  • Form 21 (Sale certificate from dealer)
  • Invoice of vehicle purchase
  • Insurance certificate
  • Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
  • Address proof
  • Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN)
  • Passport-size photographs

How to Apply for Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)

1

Purchase Vehicle

Buy vehicle from authorized dealer and obtain invoice and Form 21.

2

Get Insurance

Purchase mandatory third-party insurance for the vehicle.

3

Visit RTO

Go to your local RTO office with all documents within 7 days of purchase.

4

Submit Application

Fill Form 20 and submit with required documents and fees.

5

Vehicle Inspection

RTO will inspect the vehicle for compliance with standards.

6

Receive RC

After approval, RC will be issued and sent to your registered address.

📝 How to Update Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)

You can update your Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) details — such as address change, renewal, or upgrades — online through the Parivahan Sewa portal or by visiting your local RTO office.

1

Visit Parivahan Portal

Go to parivahan.gov.in and navigate to the relevant vehicle or licence services.

2

Select Your State and Service

Choose your state and the update service applicable to your Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC).

3

Fill and Upload Documents

Complete the required form and upload supporting documents like address proof or insurance.

4

Pay Fee Online

Pay the applicable service fee online.

5

Book Appointment (if required)

Some updates require a physical visit to the RTO — book an online appointment to avoid queues.

6

Receive Updated Document

Once approved, download your digital Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) or wait for the physical card to arrive by post.

⬇️ How to Download Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)

You can download a digital copy of your Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) through DigiLocker or the mParivahan app, both of which are legally accepted by traffic police and government offices across India.

1

Install DigiLocker or mParivahan App

Download DigiLocker (digilocker.gov.in) or mParivahan from the Play Store or App Store.

2

Sign In and Verify

Register with your mobile number and link your Aadhaar for verification.

3

Add Your Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)

Search for "Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)" in DigiLocker's issued documents or enter the number in mParivahan.

4

Access Digital Copy

Your digital Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) is now available. It can be shown to traffic police instead of the physical copy.

🔍 How to Check Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) Application Status

You can check the status of your Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) application on the Parivahan Sewa portal using your application or transaction number.

1

Visit Parivahan Portal

Go to parivahan.gov.in and navigate to "Application Status".

2

Select Your State and Enter Details

Choose your state and enter your application/transaction number.

3

View Status

Check the current stage of your Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) application — whether it is pending, approved, or ready for collection.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Delaying registration beyond 7 days (attracts penalty)
  • Not getting proper insurance
  • Incorrect address details

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the validity of RC?

RC is valid for 15 years for non-transport vehicles and 5 years for transport vehicles.

Can I transfer RC to another state?

Yes, you can transfer RC if you relocate permanently to another state.

What if I lose my RC?

You can apply for a duplicate RC at your RTO with an FIR copy and application fee.

How do I transfer an RC to another person's name?

An RC transfer requires Form 29 and Form 30. Log into the Parivahan Vahan portal, select 'Transfer of Ownership', enter vehicle details, authenticate with Aadhaar, upload the signed forms, pay the fee, and book an RTO appointment or use faceless services if available.

Can I download my vehicle RC online?

Yes, you can hold a legally valid digital copy of your RC by adding your vehicle details to the DigiLocker or mParivahan mobile applications.

Ready to Apply?

Visit the official government portal to start your application

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