Whenever you buy or sell a used car or bike in India, completing the RC transfer process is not optional—it is a mandatory legal requirement. RC (Registration Certificate) transfer simply means changing the vehicle ownership details from the seller’s name to the buyer’s name in official RTO records.
In recent years, the RC transfer process in India has become very much smoother due to online services like the Parivahan Portal, but many vehicle owners are still confused about documents, fees, timelines, and rules. If Skipped RC transfer can lead to serious legal and financial trouble later.
In this blog, you will learn how to transfer vehicle ownership in India (2025) with a step-by-step process, documents, fees, timelines, and FAQs—explained in simple words for Indian users.
What Is RC Transfer?
RC transfer is the official process of transferring a vehicle’s Registration Certificate from one owner to another after sale, gift, death of the owner, or interstate movement.
👉 Until the RC is transferred, the original owner remains legally responsible for the vehicle—even if it has been sold and paid for.
When Is RC Transfer Mandatory in India?
RC transfer must be done in the following cases:
Buying or selling a used car or bike
Gifting a vehicle to another person
Interstate vehicle transfer (one state to another)
Transfer after the death of the vehicle owner
Vehicles purchased through public auction
RC Transfer Process in India: Step-by-Step Guide
Below is the complete RC transfer process for buyers and sellers, applicable to both cars and bikes.
Step 1: Collect Required Documents
Both buyer and seller must arrange the following documents.
Documents from Seller
Original RC
Form 29 (2 copies)
Form 30 (2 copies)
Valid insurance certificate
PUC certificate
PAN card or Form 60/61
NOC from financier (if vehicle was under loan)
Documents from Buyer
Identity proof
Passport-size photographs
RC transfer fee payment receipt
- Address proof
Step 2: Apply for RC Transfer (Online or Offline)
Online RC Transfer (Recommended – 2026)
- Visit parivahan.gov.in
Go to Vehicle Related Services
Select state & RTO
Login with mobile number
Choose Transfer of Ownership
Upload documents and pay fees
Save the application reference number
Offline RC Transfer (At RTO)
Visit your local RTO
Submit documents and forms physically
Pay fees and collect acknowledgement
Wait for verification
Step 3: Pay RC Transfer Fees
| Vehicle Type | Approx Fee |
|---|---|
| Two-Wheeler | ₹150 – ₹300 |
| Four-Wheeler | ₹300 – ₹500 |
| Hypothecation Removal | ₹100 – ₹200 |
Step 4: RTO Verification & Inspection
The RTO verifies documents and may inspect the vehicle. Once approved, ownership is updated in the system.
Step 5: Receive Updated RC
Online applicants: Download RC from Parivahan
Offline applicants: RC delivered by post or collected from RTO
RC Transfer Within Same State
If buyer and seller belong to the same state, the process is simple:
Submit Form 29 & 30
No NOC required
Faster processing (7–14 days)
Interstate RC Transfer Process
If vehicle moves to another state:
Additional Documents Required
Form 28 (NOC)
Road tax clearance
New address proof
Vehicle inspection
Steps
Apply for NOC at original RTO
Submit documents in new state RTO
Pay applicable fees & road tax
Apply for fresh RC
RC Transfer After Death of Owner
Required documents:
Death certificate
Legal heir / succession certificate
Form 31
NOC from financier (if loan existed)
After inspection, a new RC is issued in the legal heir’s name.
RC Transfer Fees for Cars & Bikes
Car Ownership Transfer Fees
| Vehicle Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Light Motor Vehicle | ₹500 |
| Passenger Vehicle | ₹750 |
| Transport Vehicle | ₹750 |
Bike Ownership Transfer Fees
| Bike Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Regular Bike | ₹30–₹35 |
| Imported Bike | Up to ₹100 |
| Smart Card | ₹200 |
How Long Does RC Transfer Take?
Same state: 7–14 working days
Interstate: Up to 30 days
Special cases: Up to 45 days
How to Check RC Transfer Status?
Same state: 7–14 working days
Interstate: Up to 30 days
Special cases: Up to 45 days
Online Method
Send:
VAHAN <Vehicle Number>
to 7738299899
Why You Should Never Skip RC Transfer
If RC is not transferred:
Seller remains legally liable
Buyer cannot claim insurance
Legal trouble in accidents or crimes
Traffic fines may go to old owner
Conclusion
The RC transfer process in India (2025) is now simpler, faster, and more transparent thanks to online systems. Still, completing every step correctly is essential to avoid legal and financial risks.
Whether you are a buyer or seller, always complete RC transfer within 14 days and keep all documents updated. A properly transferred RC ensures peace of mind and legal ownership.
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