What is a Registration Certificate?
A Registration Certificate (RC) in Ladakh is an official document issued by the RTO, confirming that a vehicle is legally registered under the transport authority of Ladakh. All vehicles must possess an RC as proof of ownership. The document includes vital details about the vehicle and serves as a key reference for any official procedures related to the vehicle.
Importance of Checking RC Status
Regularly checking your RC status is essential for the following reasons:
- Buying a Used Vehicle: Verifying the RC status ensures the vehicle's details are correct and helps prevent fraud.
- RC Expiry Check: RCs are valid for 15 years. Checking the status helps you stay on top of renewals to avoid fines.
- Insurance Requirements: Insurance providers may require an updated RC for issuing policies. Ensuring your RC is current helps avoid insurance-related issues.
- Accurate Vehicle Information: Regular RC status checks keep you informed about your vehicle’s registration, insurance, and pollution compliance.
How to Check RC Status
Once you’ve applied for your RC, you can check its status through online platforms, mobile apps, or by visiting the RTO in person. Here are the available methods:
- Through Parivahan Website
- Via the mParivahan Mobile App
- Offline Process: Via RTO
Through Parivahan Website
The Parivahan Sewa portal provides an easy way to check your RC status. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Parivahan Sewa Website: Open the Parivahan Sewa Portal.

- Navigate to "Online Services": Choose the "Vehicle-Related Services" option.

- Select Ladakh: From the dropdown menu, choose "Ladakh."

- Enter Vehicle Registration Number: Input your vehicle’s registration number and solve the captcha.

- View RC Status: The system will display your vehicle’s registration details and the current status of your RC.
Via the ACKO Mobile App
Another convenient way to check your RC status is through the ACKO mobile app, which also offers insurance and other vehicle-related services.
- Download the ACKO Mobile App: Available on both Android and iOS.
- Enter Vehicle Details: Input your vehicle’s registration number under the "Check Vehicle Details" option.
- OTP Verification: Enter your mobile number to receive an OTP for verification.
- View RC Status: After verification, the app will show your RC status along with other relevant details.

Offline Process for Vehicle Registration in Ladakh: Via RTO
If you prefer an offline process, you can check your RC status by visiting your local RTO in Ladakh. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Appropriate RTO: Go to the RTO office in Ladakh where you intend to register your vehicle. Carry all necessary documents, including proof of vehicle ownership, identity proof, address proof, and valid insurance.
- Submit Required Documents: Approach the RTO counter responsible for vehicle registration and submit all necessary documents, including Form 20 (application for registration of a motor vehicle), sale certificate from the dealer, roadworthiness certificate, and pollution control certificate.
- Vehicle Inspection: The vehicle will undergo a physical inspection by RTO officials to verify its roadworthiness and ensure it meets the required standards.
- Pay Applicable Fees: After document submission and inspection, you will be directed to the cashier to pay the registration fee, road tax, and any other applicable charges. The cashier will retrieve your application, collect the required payment, and issue a receipt as confirmation.
- Registration Number Assignment: Once the payment is confirmed, your application will be processed, and a registration number will be assigned to your vehicle. You will be provided with a temporary registration number until the permanent RC is issued.
- Collect the Registration Certificate (RC): After processing, the RTO will issue the permanent Registration Certificate (RC). You may either collect it in person or have it delivered, depending on the RTO's procedures.
Documents Required for RC
To apply for a new RC in Ladakh, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Form 20: Application form for vehicle registration.
- Form 21: Sales certificate from the vehicle dealer.
- Form 22: Manufacturer’s roadworthiness certificate.
- Insurance Policy: Proof of valid vehicle insurance.
- PUC Certificate: Pollution Under Control certificate.
- Invoice and Tax Receipt: Proof of vehicle purchase and road tax payment.
- NOC: Required if the vehicle is transferred from another state.
- Passport photo: Recent passport size photographs are required during registration
Details Present on Vehicle Registration Certificate
An RC in Ladakh contains key details that verify a vehicle’s legal status. The following information is included:
- Registration Number: A unique ID assigned to the vehicle (e.g., LA for Ladakh).
- Owner’s Details: Name and address of the vehicle owner.
- Chassis Number: A unique 17-character code identifying the vehicle.
- Make and Model: Manufacturer and model of the vehicle.
- Colour and Body Type: Physical description of the vehicle.
- Fuel Type: Petrol, diesel, CNG, or electric.
- RC Validity: Typically valid for 15 years with an option for renewal.
- Insurance Details: Information about the vehicle’s insurance policy.
- PUC Certificate: Compliance with pollution control standards.
RC Renewal
In Ladakh, the Registration Certificate (RC) of a vehicle must be renewed after 15 years from the date of initial registration. The renewal process involves submitting necessary documents, such as the original RC, insurance certificate, pollution control certificate, and Form 25 (application for renewal of RC), at the local RTO. The vehicle may also need to undergo an inspection to ensure roadworthiness. Fees must be paid, which have been updated as of October 2021 under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) guidelines. The costs have increased under the vehicle scrappage policy aimed at phasing out older, polluting vehicles. Timely renewal is important to avoid penalties and ensure your vehicle remains legally registered for use in Ladakh.
Conclusion
In Ladakh, having a valid RC is crucial for legally owning and operating a vehicle. Regularly checking your RC status ensures compliance with the law and helps you avoid fines. Ladakh offers both online and offline options for checking and renewing your RC, making the process accessible and convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions