Registration Certificate (RC) is a mandatory document which legally authenticates the registration of a motor vehicle with the Regional Transport Office (RTO), as it contains significant information such as the name of the vehicle owner, chassis number, engine number, and registration number. If an RC is lost, stolen or even damaged, it's the responsibility of the vehicle owner to obtain a duplicate RC as early as possible, since driving a vehicle without an RC is an offence according to the Motor Vehicles Act.
Availing a duplicate RC in West Bengal is simplified through online and offline procedures. This article guides you through eligibility criteria, favourable reasons to apply, step-by-step procedures, documents required to submit, and more.
Contents
What Is a Duplicate RC?
A duplicate RC is a valid copy of your original Registration Certificate, the most important document evidence of your legal ownership of a vehicle, and you would require a duplicate RC in the following circumstances:
Loss or Theft: If the RC is stolen or lost, then the applicant has to register a complaint at the nearest police station. A copy of the FIR or non-traceable report has to be attached to the application.
Damage or Defacement: If the original RC is defaced, damaged, or partially destroyed, the defaced certificate must be produced along with documents to the RTO.
Destruction by Calamity or Accident: Documents which have been lost in cases of frequent incidents of unexpected events like natural calamities (fire, floods, landslides) or serious road accidents are also issued with a relative declaration and supporting documents.
In all of them, the RTO requires a written affidavit to establish the facts causing the original RC to be damaged or lost.
How to Apply for a Duplicate RC in West Bengal?
There are two ways to apply for a duplicate RC: online and offline. The online method is quick and easy, making it convenient for many users. On the other hand, the offline method offers more personalised support and guidance throughout the process. Each option has its own benefits.
Online application process for a duplicate RC in West Bengal
The online method is the cheapest and the time-saving process for obtaining a duplicate RC in West Bengal. The following are the steps:
Visit the official website, navigate over to “Online Services” and then click “Vehicle Related Services”.
Select “West Bengal” as your state and choose the corresponding RTO.
Click on “Apply for Duplicate RC” and fill in the application details with your vehicle’s registration number and the last five digits of your chassis number.
Upload the scanned copies of the required documents and make the payment through the online gateway.
Select a date for the physical verification and document submission.
You'll get a reference number to check the application status.
Offline application process for a duplicate RC in West Bengal
The offline procedure can be accessed as well:
You can download Form 26 from the online portal of Parivahan or collect it from your nearest RTO.
If the vehicle is leased, then collect a No Objection Certificate from the vehicle financier.
Visit the proper RTO with your filled-out form and the required documents to submit the application.
Submit the fees at the RTO counter and you'll receive a slip for reference.
Required Documents for a Duplicate RC in West Bengal
You'll require the documents listed below for a better-streamlined process experience, and make sure that the copies are self-attested along with the original ones for self-verification:
Form 26 is the application for a duplicate RC that needs to be duly signed and filed.
Copy of the FIR in case of loss or theft.
Affidavit stating the loss or damage, along with a copy of the original RC. (If possible)
Documents to serve as identity and address proof, such as Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID, etc.
NOC from the financiers and passport-sized photographs.
Fee Structure for a Duplicate RC in West Bengal
The charges for the duplicate RC vary by vehicle category. Two-wheelers and private cars typically have a small fee ranging from ₹150 to ₹300, while commercial vehicles can be slightly costly as well.
Vehicle Type
Application Fee (INR)
Two-wheelers (e.g., scooters, motorcycles)
₹150
Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs, e.g., cars)
₹300
Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs, e.g., trucks)
₹500
Smart Card Printing Fee (if applicable)
₹200
How to Check the Application Status for Duplicate RC in West Bengal?
Go to 'Online Services' > 'Vehicle-Related Services' and select 'West Bengal', followed by 'Application Status'
Enter your application number and date of birth
Check the live status of your application
This tool is useful to check whether your documents are being processed, whether fees have been remitted, or whether corrections are being made.
How to Download Duplicate RC Online Once Approved?
You can get the physical copy of the RC through the post or mail in most cases. The digital RC can be seen through DigiLocker, which is directly connected with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways:
Download the DigiLocker app or visit this website.
Sign in with your mobile number that is linked to your Aadhaar Number.
Navigate over to “Issued Documents” and select the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Enter your Registration details and download the digital RC.
Common Issues
There aren't many problems that you might stumble upon while following the process, as it is rather streamlined. However, some challenges you might face are:
Delay in filing the FIR.
Rejection of documents due to errors in uploads.
Financiers might refuse to give a No Objection Certificate.
Incorrect chassis number or application details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to Duplicate RC in West Bengal.
Can a duplicate RC be applied online?
Yes, applicants can also initiate the process online by using the Parivahan Sewa portal. Physical confirmation or document submission may still be required based on the RTO's policy.
How much is the prescribed fee for a duplicate RC in West Bengal?
It is usually ₹150–₹300 for private vehicles. Commercial ones may cost more. There may also be some smart card delivery or postal delivery charges.
Is it essential to register an FIR for a lost RC?
Yes. On loss or theft, an FIR or a non-traceable certificate issued by the police is essential and is considered legal evidence of loss.
How much time does the whole process consume?
It usually takes 7 to 15 working days for the duplicate RC to be released, depending on the documents submitted and the workload of the RTO.
What if I get back my original RC on receiving the duplicate?
The original RC was cancelled due to the issue of a duplicate. If received, it must be surrendered to the RTO to prevent legal problems or misuse.
