Vehicle Transfer: Car/Bike Registration Transfer Process, Fee, and Required Documents

Published on 2 Aug, 2021, 11:51 AM IST

Updated on 14 Jun, 2024, 7:23 AM IST

Team Ackodrive

22 min read

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If you plan to use your car or bike on public roads, you need to get the vehicle registered. This registration process is conducted at the Regional Transport Office (RTO) of your area. Upon successful registration, you receive a Registration Certificate (RC). This document is like a proof of ownership. Therefore, when you transfer the ownership of your vehicle to someone else, you need to transfer the RC to that person as well.

The Registration Certificate transfer process involves providing the correct documents. Also, it can be different if you want to transfer the RC in the state of residence or some other Indian state. Read ahead to know all the necessary details concerning a car or bike’s registration transfer process, fees, documents, and other information.

Contents

Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) Transfer in India:

Just as you are meant to follow the traffic rules while driving a car or riding a bike, you are meant to follow the RTO rules when it comes to transferring ownership of the vehicle. This change of ownership of a vehicle is commonly referred to as the RC transfer process. Through such a process, the vehicle owner transfers the ownership as well as the liabilities associated with the vehicle to the new owner. RC transfer usually happens in the following cases.

Event	Changes
Sale of vehicle	Here, the vehicle’s RC is transferred in the new owner’s name. Which means the RC now features the name of the vehicle’s new owner instead of the previous owner’s name.
Owner’s death	In the case where the vehicle’s registered owner dies, the vehicle’s ownership will most likely transfer to the owner’s legal heir. The necessary transfer process (visit RTO) must be followed by the legal heir within the stipulated time frame (within 30 days after the owner’s death) for RC transfer.
Auction	This event is like that of a sale of the vehicle. The old vehicle owner’s name needs to be replaced with the new owner in the case of an auction.

When to Transfer Vehicle Ownership?

Transferring vehicle ownership is a crucial process that involves legally shifting the ownership of a vehicle from one person to another. Understanding when to initiate this transfer is essential to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and avoid potential legal complications. Here are the primary circumstances under which vehicle ownership transfer is necessary:

Reselling Your Vehicle

When selling a car or any other vehicle to a new buyer, it is mandatory to transfer the ownership into the buyer's name. This process is critical as it updates the Regional Transport Office (RTO) database with information about the new owner. Without this transfer, the seller may remain liable for any legal or financial issues related to the vehicle, even after it has changed hands. Therefore, both the seller and the buyer must complete the necessary paperwork to formalise the transfer of ownership.

Vehicle Auction Due to Debt Settlement

In cases where a vehicle is auctioned to settle outstanding debts, the new owner must ensure that the transfer of ownership formalities are fulfilled promptly. Whether the vehicle is seized by creditors or sold off voluntarily to repay debts, the transfer of ownership is necessary to establish the new owner's rights and responsibilities legally. Failure to complete this transfer could lead to complications in the future, including legal disputes over ownership or liability for any incidents involving the vehicle.

Transfer Upon Owner's Death

When the registered owner of a vehicle passes away, ownership of the vehicle is typically transferred to the lawful heir or heirs as per the deceased owner's will or applicable inheritance laws. The inheritor must initiate the process of changing the ownership of the vehicle to their name to ensure legal compliance and avoid potential disputes. This transfer is essential for updating official records and establishing the rightful ownership of the vehicle under the new owner's name.

Types of Vehicle Registration Transfer:

The RC transfer process in India can be divided into two broad categories – within the state and outside the state.

Within the State:

Here, the RC transfer process takes place within the geographical borders of an Indian state. For example, your car was registered in an RTO in Maharashtra and you sell the vehicle within the state of Maharashtra.

Outside the State (Interstate):

Interstate RC transfer happens when the vehicle was registered in one state and sold in another Indian state. For example, your car was registered in an RTO in Maharashtra and you sell the vehicle to an owner in Gujarat who will register it in a Gujarat RTO.

Vehicle Transfer Process:

The Regional Transport Office (RTO) is the main organization when it comes to a vehicle transfer process. Some Indian states offer online facilities to contact the RTO and initiate the vehicle transfer process online. For other states, you must visit the RTO office in person for RC transfer. Nowadays, the second-hand car market and buying and selling of used cars has become organized. Such organizations also assist in the RTO vehicle transfer process. The process, in general, involves filling up specific forms and submitting the required documents.

Car and Bike RC Transfer Process Within the Same State:

The following sections will throw light upon various aspects of the bike/car RC transfer process in the case the vehicle is sold within an Indian state from one person to another.

1) Transfer of ownership in case of a normal sale:

A normal sale or a regular sale occurs when a vehicle owner sells the vehicle to another person. As a result, the vehicle’s ownership and RC needs to be transferred to the new person. For this purpose, the transferor is required to submit Form 29 to the RTO. The transferee needs to submit Form 30 to the RTO within 14 days of the vehicle transfer. Appropriate fees and taxes need to be paid.

2) Transfer of ownership on the death of an owner of the vehicle:

In the case of the vehicle owner’s death, the vehicle’s ownership will pass on to the legal heir as per the legal rules and regulations. The legal heir needs to intimate the RTO of the death within 30 days of the death and state the desire to use the vehicle. This way, the person can use the vehicle for three months almost like an owner. In those three months, the person needs to submit Form 31 for transfer of ownership. Ensure payment of applicable fees and taxes.

3) Transfer of ownership of a vehicle purchased in public auction:

The person who has acquired the sold vehicle needs to submit Form 32 to the RTO within 30 days of such a purchase to take possession of the vehicle. Fees and taxes as per The Central Motor Vehicle Rules need to be paid.

Documents Required for Vehicle RC & Ownership Transfer within the same State:

Here’s a list of documents required for RC transfer of car as a part of the transfer of ownership of a vehicle. The vehicle transfer process also involves car insurance/bike insurance as well.

Normal Sale	Owner's Death	Public Auction
Form 29	Form 31	Form 32
Form 30	Certificate of registration	Certificate of registration
Form I
·Certificate of registration	Certificate of insurance	Certificate of insurance
·Certificate of insurance	Death certificate in relation to the registered owner	Certificate or order stating the vehicle sale signed by the authorized person.
·Certificate of pollution under control	Certificate of pollution under control	Certified copy of the order of the Central Government or State Government authorising the auction of the vehicle.
·PAN card (of the person selling and buying) or Form 60	PAN card (successor) or Form 60	Certificate of pollution under control
·PAN card (of the person selling and buying) or Form 60	Chassis & Engine Pencil Print	PAN card (of the person selling and buying) or Form 60
·Print of the vehicle’s Chassis & Engine number	Proof of Date of Birth of successor	Print of the vehicle’s Chassis & Engine number
·Proof of Date of Birth of purchaser	Proof of address	Proof of Date of Birth of purchaser
·Proof of address	Signature Identification of Seller	Proof of address
·R.C. Book	Declaration by the applicant and all other Legal Heirs of the deceased	Purchaser's undertaking
·Purchaser's undertaking	Verification of vehicle on Form 20	R.C. Book
·Passport size photograph	R.C. Book	Passport size photograph
·Tax clearance certificate	Passport size photograph
Form II
A No Objection Certificate (NOC) granted by the registering authority	Proof of succession

Transferring the Insurance Certificate of the Two-wheeler

Ensuring timely and accurate transfer of the insurance certificate is crucial to maintaining continuous coverage for the two-wheeler and complying with legal requirements. By following the outlined process and fulfilling necessary documentation and formalities, the new owner can seamlessly transition the insurance policy into their name and enjoy uninterrupted protection for their vehicle.

Ownership Transfer and Re-registration: The initial step in transferring the insurance certificate of a two-wheeler involves completing the ownership transfer and re-registration of the vehicle in the new owner's name. This typically entails submitting relevant documents to the regional transport office (RTO) and obtaining a new registration certificate (RC) with the updated owner details.
Timeline for Insurance Transfer: Once the ownership transfer and re-registration are completed, the new owner of the two-wheeler has a window of two weeks to initiate the transfer of the insurance certificate into their name. Adhering to this timeline ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and avoids any lapse in insurance coverage.
Intimation to Insurance Company: The new owner must promptly inform the insurance company about the vehicle purchase. This communication serves as a formal notification to the insurer regarding the change in ownership and the need to transfer the insurance policy accordingly.
Updating Personal Details: Along with intimating the insurance company about the vehicle purchase, the new owner is required to update their personal details with the insurer. This includes providing accurate information such as name, address, contact details, etc., to ensure seamless communication and documentation processing.
Documentation Requirements: Certain documents are necessary to complete the transfer of the insurance certificate. These typically include the original insurance document, proof of current address, two passport-sized photographs of the new owner, and a copy of the updated RC book reflecting the new ownership details.
Inspection by Insurer: As part of the insurance transfer process, the insurer examines the two-wheeler's insurance certificate. This inspection ensures the authenticity and validity of the insurance policy and facilitates the smooth transition of coverage to the new owner.
Transfer Charges: A nominal charge of INR 50 is typically levied for transferring the insurance certificate from the previous owner to the new owner. This fee covers administrative expenses associated with processing the transfer request and issuing relevant documentation.
Receipt Collection: Upon successful completion of the insurance transfer process, the new owner is issued a receipt confirming the transfer along with the updated insurance certificate. It is essential for the new owner to collect this receipt, as it serves as proof of the completed transfer and updated insurance coverage.

Car/Bike Registration Transfer Step-by-step Process – within the Same State:

Here’s the procedure to transfer ownership of a car or car registration transfer of ownership as it is often called. Note that there might be a change in the car’s number plate based on the transfer location.

Car/Two-wheeler Ownership Transfer: Online Method

Step 1: Preparation

Ensure you have the necessary documents scanned and ready before starting the registration process. These include:

ID & Address Proof of Buyer and Seller
Duly filled and signed Form 29
Duly filled and signed Form 30
Vehicle Registration Certificate
Valid Car Insurance

Step 2: Obtain NOC from the Traffic Department

If the vehicle is registered outside your Regional Transport Office (RTO), you need a No Objection Certificate (NOC). Here's how:

Obtain Form 29 from the original RTO if necessary.
Submit Form 28/29 to the original RTO through the Parivahan Sewa website.
Select "Online Services" >> "Vehicle-related Services."
Choose your state and RTO, then click "Apply for Transfer of Ownership, Change of Address, Hypothecation [Addition/Continuation/Termination], Duplicate RC."
Fill in your vehicle details and follow the prompts to apply for NOC.

Step 3: Form Submission and Fee Payment

Fill out the RC transfer form online, providing vehicle and new owner details and scanned copies of required documents. Pay the transfer fee online (approximately ₹300). If the car has an active loan, ensure you have Form 35 and Bank NOC.

Book an appointment to submit hard copies of documents at the RTO.
Make the online payment of ₹300.
After payment, generate receipts for Forms 29 and 30.

Step 4: Visit the RTO

On the appointed date, visit the RTO with hard copies of the following documents:

Original Registration Certificate (Smart Card)
Valid Car Insurance
Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate
2 Passport Size Photographs of the Buyer (if required)
Buyer's ID and Address Proof
Buyer's PAN (for transactions over ₹50,000)
Seller's ID and Address Proof
Blank Envelope with Buyer's Name and Address, along with Seller's ID Proof
Printed copies of online fee payment receipts and signed Forms 29 and 30.

Step 5: RTO Verification

If all documents and forms are in order, the RTO will verify them. Within seven business days, they will issue a new Registration Certificate (Smart Card) in the buyer's name. If discrepancies arise, the RTO will notify the seller for further verification.

Note: The process may vary slightly depending on the RTO's procedures and requirements..

Also, read: Types of number plates in India and their meaning

Car/Bike Ownership Transfer Offline:

Here’s the offline vehicle ownership transfer process.

Application:

Check the event based on which the RC transfer process is initiated. Refer to the ‘Car and Bike RC Transfer Process Within the Same State’ section of this article.

Submission:

Fill appropriate forms and follow the timelines for submitting those forms. Refer to the ‘Documents Required for Vehicle RC Transfer within the same State’ section of this article for an appropriate list of forms and documents. The seller should handover all the vehicle related documents to the buyer.

Finalization:

Once the documents are submitted, pay the required fees and get the receipt to complete the process. The buyer will receive the new RC.

Car and Two-wheeler Registration Transfer from One State to Another (Interstate):

Additional complexities are added when it comes to interstate vehicle transfer online or offline. For online two-wheeler/four-wheeler ownership transfer, both states must have a strong and functional online process. For the offline process, the fact that two states – and therefore two RTOs – are involved can be cumbersome. Read ahead to know more about the process.

Documents Required for Interstate Vehicle Registration Transfer:

Here’s a list of documents required for interstate RC transfer. Note that the owner will also have to submit the active motor insurance document to the seller to complete the vehicle transfer process.

No Objection Certificate from the RTO where the vehicle was originally registered.
Form 28
No Crime Record certificate
Road tax receipt

Interstate Car/Bike Registration Transfer Step-by-Step Process:

Here’s the process for the transfer of vehicle registration from one state to another. In such a scenario, the RC, as well as the registration number of the vehicle, will get changed because of the vehicle sale and the change in location (different state).

Step 1 – Bank and Crime NOC

Get a No Objection Certificate from a bank if there is the involvement of a loan. Also, get No Crime Record Certificate from the RTO.

Step 2 – RTO NOC

Get No Objection Certificate from the RTO where the vehicle was registered before the sale. As the transfer is because of a sale of a vehicle and not relocation, the applicable RC transfer process needs to be followed based on the ‘Vehicle Registration (RC) Transfer in India’ section of this article. Contact your nearest RTO or visit and discuss your requirements with the RTO official if you face any confusion regarding the process.

Step 3 – Re-registration

Re-register the vehicle in the new state’s RTO. Here, the RC will feature the new owner’s name. Submit RTO Forms 29 and 30 for vehicle re-registration.

Step 4 – Road Tax Refund

In case you have purchased the vehicle in a different state and paid Road Tax there, and now want to move to another state after RC and ownership transfer, you can seek Road Tax refund from the previous state’s RTO.

Required Documents – Download Vehicle Transfer Forms Online:

You will have to submit different documents at different stages of the RC Transfer process. For example, you will need an application form, RTO Form 29 and 30, car transfer form or bike transfer form, etc. You can visit the Parivahan Website > Informational Services > Downloadable Forms > Vehicle Registration and download the appropriate forms.

Here’s a list of downloadable forms on a case-by-case basis.

Transfer of ownership in case of normal sale:

Form 29 Alternative Download
Form 30 Alternative Download
Form 60 Alternative Download

Transfer of ownership on death of owner:

Form 31 Alternative Download
Form 60 Alternative Download
Form 20 Alternative Download

Transfer of ownership of vehicle purchased in public auction:

Form 32 Alternative Download
Form 60 Alternative Download

Vehicle Registration (RC) Transfer Fee:

You will have to pay a fee for change of ownership for a car or a bike. This is also known as the bike/car title transfer fee. This bike/car ownership transfer cost needs to be paid to the RTO. Such RC transfer fees can vary from one RTO to another and from one state to another.

Two-wheeler Ownership Transfer Fees

The process of transferring ownership of a two-wheeler incurs certain fees, which vary slightly depending on the state. Typically, the RTO charges a transfer fee ranging from INR 30 to INR 35. Additionally, there is a mandatory smart card fee of INR 200 imposed by the RTO for issuing a new registration certificate (RC) in the name of the new owner. When these fees are combined, the total amount required for the ownership transfer of a two-wheeler amounts to INR 235.

These fees cover administrative costs associated with processing the transfer request, updating records, and issuing necessary documentation to reflect the change in ownership accurately. It's essential for individuals undergoing the ownership transfer process to budget for these fees to ensure a smooth and compliant transfer of ownership for their two-wheeler.

How Much Time Does the RC Transfer Process Take?

The transfer of vehicle process varies based on the RTO, state, and the complexities involved in a case. For example, some RTOs have Smart Card based RCs while some do not; therefore, the process timelines will vary accordingly. A few RTOs can complete the process in a week, but on an average, it would be safe to assume that the process might take around three to four weeks – depending upon the complications and adherence to rules and regulations.

Check RC Transfer Status:

It can be troubling to remain in uncertainty concerning the status of the RC transfer. Some people might need the car on an urgent basis and for them, knowing the RC transfer timeline becomes all the more important. The seller also needs to ensure that the RC transfer process has gone through and that major ties with the sold vehicle are now cut.

There are two ways in which you can check the RC transfer status.

Online Method:

Use the following online method to check if the RC has been transferred in your name or not.

Step 1 – Visit Parivahan Website
Step 2 – Select ‘Online Services’
Step 3 – Select ‘Know Your Vehicle Details’
Step 4 – Enter the vehicle’s registration number
Step 5 – Click on ‘Search Vehicle’

SMS Method:

Use the following SMS method to check if the RC has been transferred in your name or not.

Step 1 – Open your phone’s messenger service
Step 2 – type: vahan <space> vehicle’s registration number
Step 3 – Send the SMS on 7738299899

How to Receive Road Tax Refund in the Case of Vehicle Transfer:

You will be eligible for a road tax refund if you are the vehicle owner, and you have moved to a different state after paying the tax in the previous state and have re-registered the vehicle and paid road tax in the new state.

You will have to visit the RTO in the new state to file for a road tax refund. You will need the following documents for the process.

Vehicle’s chassis number impression
Transfer NOC from previous state’s RTO
A valid insurance policy of the vehicle
Road tax copy – paid in previous state’s RTO
Road tax copy – paid in new state’s RTO
New state’s address proof
Bank details for money transfer via cheque

Why is it Important to Transfer Vehicle Ownership?

When any vehicle is sold from one party to another resulting in the change in ownership of a car/bike, the relevant documents must contain the name of the new owner. The same needs to be done in case of a Registration Certificate (RC). This way, the vehicle, as well as any liabilities associated with it, are transferred from the previous owner to the new owner of the vehicle.

Purchasing Insurance Before Registration:

If you are wondering if it is possible to insure a vehicle before registering it, then the answer is yes. However, in the case of a vehicle transfer, the active insurance policy will also transfer to the buyer. But the buyer can wish to choose a different insurer. Ideally, in case of a sale, one should wait for the RC transfer and the ownership transfer process to be completed and then move towards changing the insurer, if required.

You can use a motor premium calculator before buying a policy to compare car insurance premium. This way, you will come to know the vehicle insurance amount for a cover. Based on your requirements, you can modify the modifiable details and know the vehicle insurance rate. The tool can be accessed by visiting insurers’ websites or aggregator websites. But note that the aggregator websites might not include all insurers while displaying the motor insurance rate chart.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Here’s a list of frequently asked questions and answers concerning RC transfer.

FAQs

What is the validity period of a vehicle’s registration certificate?

There are two types of registration certificates – one is a temporary one and the other is a permanent one. The temporary one is valid for one month only. After that, one needs to move towards a permanent one. A permanent or a long-term RC comes with a renewable timeframe of five years and lasts for 15 years.

I purchased a car on loan and now I am selling it. Is it compulsory to repay the bank’s loan before selling the vehicle?

Loan repayment is crucial before selling a vehicle. You will need a No Objection Certificate from the bank before selling the car, which has an ongoing loan. In case you have a special requirement, you can discuss the terms with the loan providing bank.

What are the fees for RC transfer within a state?

The charges for RC transfer vary from one Indian state to another. Contact your nearest RTO for exact fees.

Is the presence of the concerned vehicle at the RTO required for RC transfer?

You should have all the necessary documents in place for a smooth RC transfer process. The presence of the concerned vehicle should not be necessary at the RTO unless specified otherwise.

Is the vehicle’s insurance policy required for RC transfer?

The vehicle’s insurance policy is required to complete the transfer of ownership of the vehicle. RC transfer can be viewed as a part of the complete transfer of ownership process.

Can I change my name on my vehicle’s RC?

Yes, you can change the name on your vehicle’s RC by providing the necessary supporting documents. You can do so by approaching your nearest RTO and following their process.

How can I apply for my car’s RC via the online method?

RC application via the online mode depends upon your RTO’s functionality. You can initiate the online RC application process for some states. Visit Parivahan website for more information.

How many days does it take for RC transfer?

The RC transfer can take place between one to four weeks based on the RTO and the complexities involved.

Is it possible to get an RC book online?

The answer will vary from one RTO to another based on the supported technology.

How can I check the RC status of my vehicle?

You can check the RC status of your vehicle online as well as by sending an SMS. Please refer to the ‘Check RC Transfer Status’ section of this article.

What is the RTO fee for processing the vehicle’s transfer of ownership or how much does it cost to transfer car registration?

The exact processing fees and total charges will depend upon the RTO that is transferring the ownership. The rates can vary from one RTO to another.

Is it possible to conduct the vehicle hypothecation and transfer of ownership process simultaneously?

The vehicle hypothecation process needs to precede the transfer of ownership process.

How can I transfer a car from one person’s name to another person’s name?

You can transfer the car to someone else if you are the owner of the vehicle and your name appears in the vehicle’s RC. You will have to transfer the vehicle’s RC in the name of the other person, which can be done by visiting your nearest RTO and following the process.

How to approach the application for vehicle transfer If I am the new owner of the vehicle?

The transferor shall inform the RTO of the transfer by submitting Form 29 and the transferee will follow-up with Form 30 within 14 days if the transfer is within the state and within 45 days if the transfer is outside the state.

Can I register my vehicle in a different district than the one where I purchased the vehicle?

Yes, you can register the vehicle in a different district by approaching the respective RTO.

How can I check the transfer of vehicle ownership status?

You can check the status by visiting the Parivahan website.

Can I transfer the car’s insurance policy to the new owner?

Yes, you can transfer the vehicle’s active insurance policy while transferring the ownership to the new owner.

Which documents do I need for the RC transfer process?

Please refer to the ‘Documents Required for Vehicle RC & Ownership Transfer within the same State’ section of this article for the answer.

From where can I download the necessary forms for RC transfer?

Please refer to the ‘Required Documents – Download Vehicle Transfer Forms Online’ section of this article for the answer.

Can a passenger vehicle be transferred to a differently-abled person?

The ownership of the vehicle can pass from one person to another by providing the necessary documents. For specific queries, please contact your nearest RTO.

How to transfer the ownership of a vehicle if the owner/permit holder has died?

Please refer to the ‘Transfer of Ownership on the death of an owner of the vehicle’ section of this article for the answer.

How to find out the date on which the vehicle is transferred to the new buyer?

The date might be mentioned in one of the related documents like an acknowledgement or a receipt. You can contact your RTO for the precise answer.

Is there any financial liability on a private car owner if the vehicle is moved to a different state?

If the move is permanent or for a long period, then the owner needs to de-register the vehicle from the previous state’s RTO and re-register it in the new state’s RTO. The financial liability will be with the owner till the time the person is the legal owner of the vehicle.

How to transfer the ownership of the vehicle purchased in an auction?

Please refer to the ‘Transfer of ownership of a vehicle purchased in public auction’ section of this article for the answer.

What is the format to apply for a road tax refund?

To apply for a road tax refund, you will have to fill ‘Form DT’.

Can a new owner of the car take the vehicle out of the registration state while the ownership transfer process is underway at the RTO?

While driving a car in India, the RC of the vehicle must state the owner’s name. The new owner can drive the car in India without any issues when the RC features the owner’s name.

How many times can the RC of a private vehicle be transferred?

Please approach your nearest RTO for assistance.

How to find the vehicle transfer date?

The date might be mentioned in one of the documents associated with the transfer like a receipt or an acknowledgement, please approach the applicable RTO for your query resolution.

Can I transfer vehicle insurance along with vehicle transfer?

Transferring vehicle insurance is a part of the vehicle transfer process.

How much time will the RC transfer process take for a bike purchased from CSD?

The RTO that is responsible for the RC transfer will be able to tell you the right time frame as the period depends upon the complexities involved in the case along with other concerns.

How can I get car insurance for a used car whose RC has not been transferred yet?

Ideally, you should wait for the RC transfer process to be completed. The ownership transfer process also involves transferring car insurance. If you want to purchase a separate car insurance policy, you can speak with your preferred online car insurance provider about the issue.

How can I transfer the RC in the case I purchase a two/four-wheeler from overseas and want to bring it to India?

Usually, there is a lot of foolproof documentation involved in importing a car from a foreign land to India. The RC becomes a crucial document in this case as it signifies vehicle ownership and registration. RC transfer should be an integral part of an overseas vehicle purchase and the agencies associated with the process should be able to assist you. You can always contact your nearest RTO for any queries related to RC transfer.