In India, registering a car is an essential procedure for every owner. Like in other states, Maharashtra also requires a car to be registered with the appropriate authorities in order to be legally driven. The document known as the Registration Certificate (RC) attests to the fact that your car has been legally registered with the state and meets all regulations.
It is imperative for all Maharashtra residents who own vehicles to verify the validity of their Registration Certificates (RCs) and to be aware of when they expire. This article will walk you through the procedure of finding out your RC status in Maharashtra, highlight the significance of doing so, and offer details on RC renewals
Contents
What is a Registration Certificate?
An official document produced by the Maharashtra RTO about a vehicle's registration is called a Registration Certificate (RC). This document attests to the car's legal registration and authorisation to be operated on public roads. The vehicle's make, model, engine number, registration number, and owner information are all included in the RC.
It is required in Maharashtra to have your RC with you when you drive. Penalties, fines, and even car seizure may follow the non-existence of a valid RC. For private automobiles, the RC is valid for 15 years, after which it could need to be renewed. The validity for commercial vehicles might change based on the kind of vehicle and how it is used.
Importance of Checking RC Status
It's important to monitor your RC status for a number of reasons:
Legal Compliance: If your registration has expired, you may be subject to fines or other penalties since your car is no longer legally permitted to be driven.
Proof of Ownership: The RC serves as official documentation of ownership in the event of a dispute, theft, or sale of the car.
Purchasing a Second-Hand Vehicle: Verifying the RC status before making a purchase guarantees that the car is properly registered and free of any outstanding debt.
Transfer of Ownership: It is crucial to make sure that the ownership transfer is finished and represented in the RC if you have recently purchased or sold a car.
Insurance and Financing: To obtain a loan against the car or renew auto insurance, a current RC is required.
How to Check RC Status
The RTO is required to provide a Registration Certificate (RC) after a vehicle is registered. Checking your RC status is a simple process that can be done both online and offline. Here are the methods available for vehicle owners in Maharashtra to check the status of their RC.
Navigate to Online Services: Click on "Vehicle-Related Services."
Select Maharashtra: Choose “Maharashtra” from the drop-down menu.
Enter Vehicle Registration Number: Enter the registration number of your car to complete the captcha.
Check the RC Status: The portal will show the status after submission, along with other details like validity and registration date.
Via the ACKO Mobile App
The ACKO smartphone app makes it simple and quick to find out your car's RC status, which is helpful if you have any enquiries concerning insurance. This is the method to follow:
Get the ACKO mobile app: This app is accessible to both iOS and Android.
Enter the car's information here: Click "Check Vehicle Details" and enter your car's registration number.
OTP Verification: Enter your phone number to get a one-time password (OTP) for verification.
View RC Status: After OTP verification, the app will display the RC status and other relevant vehicle data.
Offline Process: Via RTO
If you would rather verify your car's RC status offline, you can go to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Maharashtra that is closest to you. This is the methodical procedure:
Visit the RTO Office: Head to your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO) where your vehicle is registered.
Request the Application Form: At the RTO, ask for the necessary forms to check your RC status. Provide details such as your vehicle registration number.
Submit the Required Documents: Submit the filled form along with supporting documents like your vehicle insurance certificate and ID proof. A Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is not required for simply checking the RC status.
Pay the Required Fees: Pay any applicable fees at the RTO counter and keep the receipt for future reference.
Verification and Collection: After processing, you can collect your RC or check its status. The RC may be handed over to you at the office or sent to your registered address.
Documents Required for RC
Here are the documents required for RC in Maharashtra:
Duly filled out Form 20 (application for vehicle registration).
Details Present on Vehicle Registration Certificate
A few crucial facts that are necessary for identifying the car and its owner are contained in the RC. The following is a list of the data that is available on your RC:
Registration Number: The special number that the RTO assigns to a car at the time of registration.
Owner's Name: The name of the person or business that is the car's owner.
Engine and Chassis Number: These numbers aid in identifying the engine and body of the car in a unique way.
Fuel Type: Indicates whether the car is powered by electricity, petrol, diesel, or compressed natural gas.
Car Class: Identifies the type of vehicle—private or commercial.
Manufacturer Details: Details regarding the make and model of the car, as well as information about the manufacturer.
Date of Registration: The date on which the car was registered with the government.
Validity Period: The last day till the RC is valid and is required to renew next.
RC Renewal
You have to renew your vehicle's registration if it's going to expire in order to keep driving it legally. This is the process for renewing your RC in Maharashtra:
Go to the RTO: Proceed to the RTO where the car is registered.
Fill out Form 25: The registration certificate renewal is the only use for this form.
Give the car for inspection: The RTO will check the car to make sure it complies with all emission and traffic safety regulations.
Cover the Fees: Depending on the kind and age of the car, a renewal charge must be paid.
Get the Renewed RC: The fresh RC will be provided after the necessary requirements are finished. For private automobiles, the validity lasts for five years, whereas for commercial vehicles, it lasts for a lesser time.
Conclusion
In Maharashtra, keeping a valid RC is mandatory for all car owners. When purchasing, selling, or just driving a car, it provides peace of mind in addition to guaranteeing legal compliance. You may quickly and conveniently check your RC status online by visiting the websites of the Maharashtra Transport Department or Parivahan. As an alternative, you can get help by going to the closest RTO. By keeping an eye on the validity of your residency certificate, renewing it on time, and verifying that all the information is accurate, you can prevent future legal problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to RC Status in Maharashtra
How long is an RC valid in Maharashtra?
The RC for private vehicles is typically valid for 15 years from the date of registration, while for commercial vehicles, it’s usually 2-3 years.
What should I do if my RC is lost?
In case of a lost RC, you must file an FIR at your nearest police station and then apply for a duplicate RC at the RTO by submitting Form 26 and the FIR copy.
Can I transfer my vehicle ownership online?
Yes, you can initiate the vehicle ownership transfer process online via the Parivahan Sewa website, but you will still need to visit the RTO for final verification.
How much does it cost to renew an RC in Maharashtra?
The cost of RC renewal varies depending on the type of vehicle. It’s advisable to check with your local RTO for the exact fee.
What happens if I don’t renew my RC?
Driving a vehicle with an expired RC is illegal and can result in fines or penalties from traffic authorities.
