RC Transfer: How to Transfer Vehicle Ownership?

Key Highlig​​hts

• RC transfer is needed when selling, inheriting, or purchasing a vehicle to officially register the new owner.
• Gather essential documents like Form 29, Form 30, and the original registration certificate for a smooth RC transfer.
• Secure an NOC from the RTO when transferring ownership to another state.

RC transfer or transferring vehicle ownership involves shifting the legal title of a vehicle from one individual or entity to another. This can be done through the Regional Transport Office (RTO) or online via the Parivahan portal. Proper ownership transfer is essential to prevent future legal liabilities.

When to T​​ransfer Vehicle Ownership Online?

RC transfer is needed in the following situations:

• When Selling or Buying a Vehicle: Transfer ownership during a sale to ensure the new owner is legally recognised.
• After Inheritance: Transfer ownership if a vehicle is inherited after the death of the vehicle owner to clarify legal rights.
• After a Public Auction Purchase: Transfer ownership to register the buyer as the new owner, replacing the previous one.

Also Read - Know how to check the VIN, engine and chassis number of a bike

Why RC transf​er Is Needed?

RC transfer is significant for the following reasons:

Legal Prote​​ction

Ensures that liability for any future incidents or violations does not fall on the previous owner.

Clarity of Own​​ership

Establishes clear ownership, preventing disputes over the vehicle.

Facilit​​ates Services

Enables the new owner to easily renew vehicle insurance, settle road tax, or arrange for vehicle servicing. 

Essential Doc​​uments for Online Vehicle Ownership Transfer

Here’s the document list needed for vehicle ownership transfer:

• Original RC book
• Insurance certificate
• PUC certificate
• PAN card (or Form 60)
• Chassis & Engine Pencil Print
• Address proof of new owner
• Passport-sized photographs (buyer and seller)

Additiona​​l Documents for Online RC Transfer

Based on the type of transfer, the following documents are also needed:

For Norma​​​l Sale

• Form 29 and Form 30
• Proof of date of birth (buyer)
• Purchaser’s undertaking
• Tax clearance certificate

Also Read - Know the Motor Vehicles Act and Traffic Violation Rules

For Ownersh​​ip Transfer After Owner's Death

• Form 31
• Death certificate
• Proof of legal succession

For Public Auct​​ion Purchase

• Form 32
• Sale confirmation order (from auction authority)
• Certified auction approval

How to Tr​​ansfer Vehicle Ownership?

Vehicle ownership can be transferred through the Parivahan website. However, certain steps still require offline processes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Visit the Parivahan ​website and select "Vehicle-Related Services" under the "Online Services" tab.
• Enter your vehicle's registration number and click "Proceed.
• Choose "Miscellaneous (TO/CoA/HPA/HPS/HPT/DupRC)" and input your mobile number to generate an OTP.
• Enter the OTP and select "Transfer of Ownership".
• Fill in the required details, including the new owner's information, insurance details, and addresses.
• Proceed and pay the necessary fee. Once the payment is made, receipts and Forms 29 and 30 will be generated.
• All parties must sign these documents, and hard copies, along with the original RC, insurance, and PUC, should be submitted to the RTO.

After verification, the new registration certificate will be mailed to the buyer. You can also check the vehicle ownership transfer status online.

Also Read - Know how to get an online PUC certificate

Fees for Online ​​Vehicle Ownership Transfer

Here are the typical costs for vehicle ownership transfer:

1. RTO Transfer Fee: Varies by state, usually between ₹300 - ₹500 for cars and ₹30- ₹100 for two-wheelers.
2. Road Tax (if applicable): If moving to another state, a road tax may need to be paid.
3. Smart Card Fee: Some states charge ₹200 - ₹400 for issuing a smart RC card. 

Pitfalls to ​​Avoid in RC Transfer

Here are common mistakes to avoid during RC transfer:

• Incomplete Documentation: Failing to gather all required documents can delay the process.
• Incorrect Details: Ensure all forms are filled accurately; mistakes can lead to rejections.
• Ignoring Timelines: Don’t delay the transfer after a sale, as it can result in legal liabilities.
• Not Verifying Fees: Be aware of all applicable fees to avoid surprises during the process.
• Avoiding Insurance: Transfer your motor insurance policy too, to continue the coverage and fulfil the legal mandate. 

Transfer ​​Your Vehicle Efficiently

In summary, proper vehicle ownership transfer is crucial for legal protection and clear ownership. By following the correct procedures and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure a smooth transition. Also, check the RC transfer status to know whether the transfer is complete. 

FAQs​​​

Q1. When s​​hould you apply for ​​RC transfer after selling the vehicle?

Apply for RC transfer within 14 days of the sale to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth ownership transfer.

Q2. What is the​​ RC tran​​​sfer process for renting a vehicle?

The owner just submits a rental agreement to the RTO, as RC transfer is not needed.​​

Q3 - What happ​​ens​​ if I don't transfer the vehicle ownership after buying a used car?

Failing to transfer ownership of your vehicle can lead to legal issues, as the previous owner will still be held responsible for any accidents or violations involving the vehicle. It is crucial to complete the RC transfer process as soon as possible after purchasing a used car.

Q4 - Can I tra​​​​nsfe​​r my vehicle ownership if there is a hypothecation on the vehicle?

Yes, you can transfer ownership even if there is a hypothecation on the vehicle. However, you will need to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the financier before proceeding with the transfer process.​

Q5 - Is it nec​ess​​ar​​y to have a valid insurance policy during the RC transfer?

Yes, a valid insurance policy is mandatory for the vehicle being transferred. The seller must ensure that the insurance is up to date before initiating the transfer process.