RC and Its importance for ownership of vehicles in India
Registration Certificate (RC) is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO). It provides proof of ownership and registration of a vehicle. Registration Certificate (RC) consists of important details about the vehicle such as registration number, model number, chassis information, vehicle owner’s information, etc. According to the Motor Vehicle Act 1988, it is mandatory to possess an RC to own a vehicle in India since it assists to maintain legality and distinct identifications of vehicles on roads.
When you purchase a vehicle, you are given a temporary registration number by the dealer. And you are supposed to convert that temporary registration number into a permanent one to claim the ownership and credentials of your vehicle. RC registration is the process by which you get this task done. Same goes for RC renewal. Let’s discuss this process step-by-step through our comprehensive guide.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply or Renew Your RC
To Apply For Fresh RC: Process of applying for an RC of a newly purchased vehicle stays Offline since you’d have to get your vehicle examined by the inspecting officer. You will have to visit the nearest RTO office in your area. Following are the steps to be followed.
- Step 1: Head to the nearest RTO office with your vehicle.
- Step 2: Fill out Form 20 and submit it along with the required documents that are discussed below.
- Step 3: Pay the charged amount for the registration process. Rs 600 are charged for all types of vehicles.
- Step 4: Get your vehicle examined by the Inspecting officer to verify the provided information of your vehicle in form.
- Step 5: Once everything is verified, receive RC for your newly purchased vehicle in a few weeks or so at your provided address.
Documents required for fresh RC registration
- Proof of Identity
- Proof of Age
- Vehicle Purchase Invoice
- A copy of Vehicle Insurance
- A copy of PAN Card
- Temporary Registration Number issued by Dealer
- Registration Fees Receipt
- Form 20 (used to issue permanent registration number)
- Form 21 (sales certificate issued by vehicle dealer)
- Form 22, 22-A (certificate of emission and safety measure standards)
- Form 34 (to transfer ownership but incase of agreement of hire purchase/ lease/ hypothecation)
To Renew Your RC: You can conveniently apply for your RC renewal at home through a PC or a smartphone. You just have to visit Parivahan Sewa Portal and follow these steps.
- Step 1: Visit official portal of Parivahan Sewa > click on online services, and select “Vehicle Related Services”
- Step 2: Select your state where you currently reside.
- Step 3: Select your nearest RTO and click proceed
- Step 4: Choose “Renewal of Registration” from RC related services.
- Step 5: Enter your vehicle registration number and chassis details to verify information.
- Step 6: Pay out the required charges(differ from vehicle to vehicle) for renewal of RC to complete the application. After successfully completing the application, you’ll get an appointment for vehicle inspection. After 2 weeks of vehicle inspection, you’ll receive your renewed RC at your registered address.
Documents Required For RC Renewal
- Application Form 25
- Pollution under control certificate
- RC Book (required in certain areas)
- Authentic registration certificate
- Insurance certificate
- A copy of PAN Card or Form 60 or 61 as applicable
- Print of Engine Pencil & Chassis
- Signature Identification of Owner
How to Track your RC Status?
You can track your RC status online through Parivahan Sewa Portal. You just have to follow these simple steps.
- Step 1: Go to the Parivahan Sewa online portal
- Step 2: Click on the “Online services” and further select “Vehicle related services”
- Step 3: Select your RTO
- Step 4: Click on “Status” and then click on “Your Application Status”
- Step 5: Now enter your RC application number and click submit
- Step 6: You must be able to see your RC status now on screen.
Validity of Registration Certificate in India
In India, validity of Registration Certificate (RC) differs from vehicle to vehicle. Where RC for private vehicles is valid for 15 years, for commercial vehicles, the number doesn’t exceed 5 years. It is imperative to renew your registration certificate on time to prevent any kind of legal prosecution or penalty charges.
Conclusion
In India, it is important to possess a valid Registration Certificate(RC) to maintain the legality and unique identification of your vehicle. The process of acquiring and renewing an RC is not that complex. You can just follow quick and simple steps from our guide to claim ownership and credentials of your vehicle. Make sure you bring all of the required documents to the RTO and get your vehicle diagnosed by the Inspector. In a few weeks, you shall receive your fresh/renewed RC.
