Tripura, located in India's northeast, is known for its rolling hills, dense forests, and scenic roads. And driving through the busy streets or rural routes can be a great experience, which can turn into stress if, by chance, you misplace your vehicle’s registration certificate.
Well, whether your RC got lost on travel or damaged due to monsoon rains, this guide gives you everything you need to approach the application for a duplicate RC in Tripura online or offline, complete with timelines, fees, and tips.
Contents
Why A Duplicate RC in Tripura Is Necessary
According to the Motor Vehicles Act, it is compulsory to carry a valid RC for all drivers. Losing the RC can result in penalties, inconvenience in motor insurance claims, hassle in selling the vehicle, and even legal trouble. In Tripura, where rain, floods, and dusty rural roads are part of the terrain, a duplicate RC will keep you safe and in order, wherever your travels may take you.
Two Ways to Submit an Application for a Duplicate RC in Tripura
You have two official methods:
1. Online through the Parivahan Sewa website, which is convenient for the people of Agartala, Dharmanagar, and other urban areas.
2. Offline by going to your local RTO, which is convenient for rural areas where internet connectivity is poor.
Both are valid, and it is up to your personal convenience and connectivity.
How to Apply Online for a Duplicate RC in Tripura
Here is the step-by-step process you need to follow if you wish to apply online.
You have to choose Tripura as your state from the dropdown.
Now provide your vehicle registration number and the last five digits of your chassis.
Click Proceed, and select "Duplicate RC" from the options.
Enter personal and vehicle information, including the purpose of your application, like "flood damage", "lost while travelling", or "weathered by exposure to sun".
Upload scanned documents: clear images of ID, address proof, FIR (if necessary), PUC, insurance, and the damaged RC (if it is available).
Pay online through UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking.
Remember the acknowledgement number shown after submission.
Check your status using this number under "Application Status" on the portal.
Online applicants are advantaged by quicker processing and fewer requirements for travel, particularly in urban areas where internet connectivity is certain.
How to Apply Offline for a Duplicate RC in Tripura
For drivers in more distant areas, such as Kailashahar or Santirbazar, going to the RTO in person might be more convenient:
In case your RC is stolen or lost, register an FIR at your local police station and have a copy.
Proceed to the RTO corresponding to your registration (Agartala, Dharmanagar, or Khowai).
Fetch Form 26 (duplicate RC application) and Form 34 if needed (for financed vehicles).
Fill out the forms and affix supporting documents—FIR, ID proof, address proof, PUC, insurance, and torn RC.
Pay the fee in cash or by a Demand Draft.
Get an acknowledgement receipt with your individual application number.
The RTO officer checks your submission and provides an estimated date of issue, normally within 15 - 30 working days.
Offline submission proves useful for those who require in-person support or reside in digital connectivity gaps.
Documents Required for a Duplicate RC in Tripura
To prevent delays, have these documents neatly organised:
FIR copy (in case RC is stolen/lost)
Done Form 26
Form 34 (in case the vehicle is financed)
Proof of identity: Aadhaar, driving licence, or PAN
Proof of address: utility bill, voter ID, or ration card
Affidavit stating the reason you're applying for a duplicate RC
Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
Valid vehicle insurance certificate
Damaged RC (if still in your possession)
Passport-size photograph (generally required for offline processing)
Make sure originals and photocopies are well legible and properly arranged.
Fees for Duplicate RC in Tripura
Expected fees by vehicle category are as follows-
Vehicle Type
Duplicate RC Fee (INR)
Two-wheeler
₹150
Light private vehicle
₹300
Light commercial vehicle
₹500
Medium/Heavy passenger/goods vehicle
₹500–₹750
Imported vehicles
₹1,250–₹2,500
Special categories
As per RTO discretion
Tripura RTOs accept both online payments and offline cash or demand draft (DD) submissions.
Expected Timelines for Duplicate RC in Tripura
The duration taken for obtaining a duplicate RC in Tripura is based on the mode of application. Online applications are generally completed in 10 to 20 working days, whereas offline applications can take 15 to 30 working days because the verification is done manually. After verifying the duplicate RC, sending the smart card can take an additional 7 to 14 days. It's also worth remembering that local festivities like Kharchi Puja, Durga Puja, or inconvenience due to heavy monsoon rains might prolong these timescales.
How to Track the Application Status for Duplicate RC in Tripura
Here’s how to do it online:
Go to the Parivahan Sewa website.
Click on “Online Services”, then select “Vehicle Related Services.”
Select Tripura from the states listed.
Provide your vehicle's registration number and proceed.
Click "Status" and choose "Know Your Application Status."
Provide your application or acknowledgement number and complete the CAPTCHA.
Click "Submit" to see your current application status.
How to Download a Duplicate RC in Tripura After Approval
Once your duplicate RC has been officially sanctioned, you can download it:
Visit Parivahan Sewa and choose Tripura.
Enter registration number and the last five chassis digits.
Submit the OTP received on your registered mobile.
Download RC in PDF.
Save it in DigiLocker or mParivahan, which are legally recognised all over the country.
Digital RCs provide the convenience of not having to carry the physical card, particularly helpful during flood times or inter-district transit.
Common Causes of Duplicate RC Application Delay in Tripura
There are many reasons that can delay your duplicate RC application in Tripura. These include providing wrong chassis or vehicle registration numbers, submitting hazy or incomplete documentation, or not providing an FIR when RCs are lost or stolen. If your vehicle is financed and you leave out Form 34, your application will be rejected. Excessive traffic fines or undisbursed taxes can also hinder progress.
Also, RTO offices can be closed during peak festivals or due to seasonal floods, which is typical in some parts of Tripura. Rural applicants may face internet outages that hinder online submissions. If you experience any delays, it's better to call your local RTO or police station with your application number so that you can detect and resolve the issue at the earliest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to Duplicate RC in Tripura
Can I apply if I've just shifted to Tripura from another state?
Firstly, you should get your RC updated with a new address, then apply for a duplicate.
Is FIR always required?
You need to file an FIR only for stolen or lost RCs. For RCs that are damaged, an affidavit is normally enough.
Can my relative submit the application for me?
Yes, a signed authorisation letter with a photocopy of their ID is fine.
What if my application is declined by the RTO?
You'll get a reason. After settling the matter, you can reapply (with a fresh fee).
Can I download the RC before I get the smart card?
Yes, once approved, the PDF is available immediately.
Is it likely to lead to a fine if I don't possess a digital RC while travelling?
Yes. A hard copy is not necessary if you carry the digital PDF on an approved app.
Is a duplicate RC likely to impact the resale of the vehicle?
No. A duplicate RC is as acceptable as the original in legal and commercial transactions.
If my vehicle is retired from service, can I still apply?
You can, but please update taxes, insurance, and PUC prior to application.
Is there a fast-track option?
Priority service is available at an extra fee. You must call your local office.
Am I eligible to apply for a duplicate RC in Tripura if my original RC was partially damaged but legible?
Yes, you can. Even if your RC is damaged partially, but the key information is visible, you can still apply for a duplicate RC.
