How to Transfer RC (Vehicle Registration Certificate)
Every used vehicle sale in India requires transferring the vehicle registration certificate (RC). This is the complete process — what you need, what it costs, and how long it takes at the RTO vehicle office.
Quick answer
To transfer a vehicle registration certificate (RC) in India, the buyer submits Form 29 and Form 30 (plus original RC, valid insurance, PUC, address proof, and bank NOC if financed) at the RTO where the vehicle is registered, then pays the transfer fee (₹30–₹50 for two-wheelers, ₹300–₹600 for cars). The new RC is issued within 7–30 working days and can be tracked on the Parivahan portal.
Steps
Gather the documents
You need: Form 29 (notice of transfer from seller), Form 30 (application for transfer from buyer), original vehicle registration certificate (RC), valid insurance certificate, PUC (pollution) certificate, and address proof. If the vehicle was financed, you also need a NOC from the bank.
Visit the RTO
The buyer submits the forms at the RTO where the vehicle is currently registered. For inter-state transfers, the vehicle must first be taken to the new state's RTO after obtaining NOC from the original RTO.
Pay the transfer fee
Transfer fees vary by vehicle type and state. For two-wheelers it's typically ₹30–₹50. For cars it's ₹300–₹600. Commercial vehicles are higher. Pay at the RTO counter or online via Parivahan.
Wait for the new RC
After submission, the new vehicle registration certificate is typically issued within 7–30 working days. You'll receive an SMS once it's dispatched. You can track status on the Parivahan portal using the application number.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive the vehicle while RC transfer is pending?
Yes. Carry the original RC, Form 29/30 receipts, valid insurance, and PUC. If stopped, show the transfer acknowledgment as proof the process is underway.
What happens if I don't transfer the RC after buying a used vehicle?
The vehicle legally remains under the previous owner's name. This creates liability issues — challans, accidents, and legal disputes will be linked to the old owner, not you.
Is RC transfer mandatory within a time limit?
Under Motor Vehicles Act, RC transfer should be completed within 14 days of purchase for vehicles other than those used for hire. In practice, RTOs rarely penalise delays, but completing it quickly protects both parties.