A Registration Certificate is a must for all vehicle owners, and it is given in Puducherry. The RC proves that a vehicle owner legally owns the vehicle and that it obeys the law of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Keeping an eye on the RC status is a must for while registering a new vehicle or renewing an already existing RC. This guide provides complete information to Puducherry vehicle owners regarding checking the status of their RC, applying for a new RC, and what an updated RC entails.
Contents
What is a Registration Certificate?
A Registration Certificate (RC) in Puducherry is a vital document confirming vehicle registration under the Regional Transport Office (RTO). It serves as proof of ownership and a vehicle record in the state’s database. All vehicles, whether new or second-hand, must have a valid RC to be legally driven on Puducherry’s roads.
Importance of Checking RC Status
Regularly checking your RC status is essential for several reasons:
Avoid Fines: Ensure your RC is valid to avoid penalties for expired certificates.
Confirm Ownership Details: Verify vehicle and owner information for accuracy.
Smooth Insurance Process: Keep your RC updated for hassle-free insurance purchases.
Ensure Vehicle Legitimacy: Confirm the vehicle is legally registered, especially when buying used.
Avoid Legal Issues: Prevent potential legal problems by maintaining a valid RC.
How to Check RC Status
Once you have applied for your RC, there are several ways to check its status. You can monitor it online, via mobile apps, or visit the RTO in person. Below are the methods available:
Through Parivahan Website
Via the ACKO Mobile App
Offline Process: Via RTO
Through Parivahan Website
The Parivahan Sewa portal simplifies the process of checking RC status for all vehicle owners. Here’s how to check it:
Visit the Parivahan Sewa Website: Go to Parivahan Sewa.
Navigate to "Online Services": Click on "Vehicle-Related Services."
Select Puducherry: Choose "Puducherry" from the dropdown menu.
Enter Vehicle Registration Number: Input your vehicle's registration number and solve the captcha.
View RC Status: After submission, the status will be displayed, showing registration date and validity details.
Via the ACKO Mobile App
You can also check your vehicle’s RC status using the ACKO mobile app, which is helpful for vehicle insurance and status tracking.
Download the ACKO Mobile App: It is available on Android and iOS.
Enter Vehicle Details: Input your vehicle’s registration number using the "Check Vehicle Details" option.
OTP Verification: Provide your mobile number so you can receive an OTP (One-Time Password) for verification.
View RC Status: After OTP verification, the app will display your RC status and other relevant vehicle details.
Offline Process: Via RTO
The offline process involves submitting the required forms and documents directly at the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Here's a step-by-step guide on how to register your vehicle offline at the RTO in Puducherry:
Visit the Appropriate RTO:
Go to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) where your vehicle is registered. Ensure you have your vehicle's registration number and any required ID proof.
Request RC Status:
Approach the counter for RC-related inquiries.
Provide your vehicle's registration number to the RTO officer and ask them to check the RC status in their system.
Pay Fees (if applicable):
If any fees are associated (e.g., if you're applying for a duplicate RC or renewal), you may be directed to the cashier to pay them.
Once you pay, collect the confirmation receipt.
Check RC Availability:
After the application is processed, the officer will check the status of your RC and inform you if it is ready for collection.
Once processed, you can collect the printed RC from the RTO.
Documents Required for RC
When applying for a new RC in Puducherry, the following documents are required:
Form 20: Application for vehicle registration.
Form 21: Sales certificate from the vehicle dealer.
Form 22: Manufacturer’s roadworthiness certificate.
Insurance Policy: Proof of valid motor insurance.
PUC Certificate: Pollution Under Control certificate.
Invoice and Tax Receipt: Proof of vehicle purchase and road tax payment.
No Objection Certificate (NOC): Required if the vehicle is being transferred from another state.
Details Present on Vehicle Registration Certificate
Below are the key information typically present on a vehicle's RC in Puducherry:
Vehicle Registration Number: A unique alphanumeric code issued by the RTO to identify the car.
Owner’s Name: The full name of the person or entity that owns the vehicle.
Vehicle Class: Specifies the vehicle category, such as Light Motor Vehicle (LMV), Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV), or Motor Cycle.
Make and Model: Details of the manufacturer and vehicle model are mentioned, including the brand name and specific model version.
Chassis Number: A unique 17-character number that identifies the vehicle's chassis. It acts like the vehicle's fingerprint.
Engine Number: A unique number assigned to the vehicle's engine by the manufacturer, used for identification.
Date of Registration: The date on which the vehicle was registered with the RTO. This is important for determining the vehicle's age and validity.
Owner’s Address: The registered residential address of the vehicle owner, which is also used for correspondence regarding the vehicle.
Type of Fuel: The type of fuel the vehicle uses, such as petrol, diesel, CNG, or electric.
Registration Validity: The expiry date of the vehicle's registration, indicating when it needs to be renewed.
Insurance Details: Information about the vehicle’s insurance policy, including the insurance provider and policy validity period.
Seating Capacity: Specifies the total number of passengers the vehicle is legally permitted to carry.
Colour of Vehicle: The official colour of the vehicle as recorded during registration.
Type of Body: Describes the vehicle's body type, such as sedan, hatchback, SUV, etc.
Emission Norms: Indicates the compliance level of the vehicle with emission norms, such as BS6 (Bharat Stage 6).
Hypothecation (if any): If the vehicle is under a loan, the details of the financier or bank are mentioned until the loan is cleared.
RC Renewal
To renew the Registration Certificate (RC) in Puducherry, applicants must submit Form 25 along with the original RC, valid insurance, and specimen signatures (2 copies). A chassis pencil print (2 copies) and proof of current tax payment are also required. The vehicle must be produced for inspection, and the process takes 7 days. Fees vary by vehicle type: Motorcycle: ₹100, LMV: ₹200, MMV: ₹400, and HMV/HPV: ₹600.
Conclusion
Owning a vehicle in Puducherry requires proper documentation, including a valid RC. Regularly checking your RC status ensures that you remain compliant with legal requirements and can avoid penalties. Whether you’re applying for a new RC or renewing an old one, online tools like the Parivahan portal or visiting your local RTO can make the process smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to RC Status in Puducherry
Can I check the RC status for multiple vehicles?
You can check the RC status for multiple vehicles individually using the Parivahan portal.
What should I do if my vehicle’s RC is lost?
If you lose your RC, apply for a duplicate at the RTO. Submit an application, a police report, and supporting documents like insurance and proof of identity.
How do I transfer the RC ownership when selling my vehicle?
RC ownership must be transferred to the buyer by filling out Form 29 and Form 30, along with other required documents such as the original RC, insurance, and address proof.
Is it mandatory to carry a physical RC while driving?
No, you can use digital platforms like DigiLocker or mParivahan to store your RC, as long as it’s valid.
What if there’s a delay in receiving my RC after applying?
Track your RC status online via the Parivahan portal or inquire directly at the RTO where you applied.