Understanding the vehicle registration process is quite essential for vehicle owners across India. Administered by the Regional Transport Offices (RTO) of your region, this procedure creates a link between a vehicle, you and your state.
In this article, let us explore the vehicle registration process, its importance, required documents, associated fees, and how to conveniently check registration details online. So, get ready to figure out how to complete your vehicle registration procedure in a few easy steps.
What is Vehicle Registration?
Vehicle Registration is the formal process of officially recording a vehicle with a government authority, creating a legal tie between the vehicle and its owner. It assigns a unique identification number to the vehicle, making it easily distinguishable from others. This procedure ensures obedience to regulations and keeps a complete record of ownership details within the administrative system.
Step-By-Step Process of Vehicle Registration
Here’s the process for registering your vehicle at the Regional Transport Office of your city in India:
Step 1: Begin by heading to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) closest to you, accompanied by your new vehicle.
Step 2: Complete and submit Application Form 20 along with all required documentation. For a comprehensive list of necessary documents for vehicle registration, please refer to the section provided below.
Step 3: An RTO official will meticulously review the details and authenticity of the submitted documents.
Step 4: Proceed to the fee collection counter to settle the registration fees and road tax. Upon payment, ensure to obtain an acknowledgment receipt.
Step 5: Your new vehicle will undergo a comprehensive inspection conducted by a designated RTO inspector to ascertain compliance with regulatory standards.
Step 6: Details related to your vehicle, including its make, model, fuel type, engine capacity, etc., will be meticulously recorded and uploaded to the central database.
Step 7: The Superintendent of the RTO will meticulously verify the accuracy of the uploaded vehicle data.
Step 8: Following verification, the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) will approve the registration of your vehicle.
Step 9: Once approval is granted, the RTO will generate the Registration Certificate (RC) along with a corresponding RC smartcard.
Step 10: Upon completion, the RC and RC smartcard will be dispatched to your registered address via postal delivery for your convenience.
Step-By-Step Process to Check Vehicle Registration State Online
To access vehicle information and owner details, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Visit the Parivahan Sewa Portal at https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/
Step 2: Navigate to the ‘Online Service’ section.
Step 3: Select ‘Vehicle-Related Services’ from the options provided.
Step 4: Choose the state where the registration certificate was applied from the drop-down menu. For example, if you belong to the state of Maharashtra, you can opt to look up the MH RTO vehicle registration owner search.
Step 5: Enter your vehicle registration number.
Step 6: Select the relevant ‘State RTO’ from the drop-down menu.
Step 7: Opt for the ‘Status’ option from the top menu and click on ‘Know Your Application Status’.
Step 8: Provide your application number and the captcha code, then click ‘Submit’.
What is the Importance of Vehicle Registration?
A person should not drive, nor should any owner allow their vehicle to be driven in any public or private place unless the vehicle is duly registered. This mandate is crucial for various reasons, especially in India, where vehicle registration is both important and mandatory. Here are some key reasons highlighting its importance:
- Legal Mandate – Registration is mandatory as per regulations such as the Motor Act 1998 in various countries, including India.
- Ownership Entitlement – Vehicle registration establishes legal ownership, indicating that the necessary taxes have been paid and granting the right to drive on roads.
- Age Verification – It helps verify the age of a vehicle, crucial for buyers of used vehicles to avoid overvaluation and ensure transparency in transactions.
- Legal Status Confirmation – Registration confirms the vehicle’s legal status and compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Assessment of Taxes – It aids in assessing applicable taxes related to vehicle ownership.
- Criminal Tracking – Registration provides data that can assist in tracking criminal activities involving vehicles.
- Fraud Prevention – It helps protect against fraud and misappropriation by establishing a legitimate record of ownership.
- Court Evidence – Registration certificates serve as legitimate evidence in legal proceedings related to vehicle ownership and transactions.
Vehicle Registration Fees & Charges in India
Below are the fees and charges associated with registering your vehicle via an RTO
| Vehicle Category | Registration Charges (in INR) |
|---|---|
| Motorbikes or Two-wheelers | 300 |
| Cars and Light Motor Vehicles | 600 |
| Three-wheeler (Auto Rickshaw) | 600 |
| Quadricycles | 600 |
| Medium Commercial Vehicles | 1,000 |
| Heavy Commercial Vehicles | 1,500 |
| Imported Cars | 5,000 |
| Other Vehicles | 3,000 |
Documents Required for Vehicle Registration in India
Here are the necessary documents to bring when registering your vehicle at the local RTO:
- Filled Form 20, the application for motor vehicle registration.
- Sale certificate (Form 21) provided by the dealer or manufacturer.
- Road Worthiness Certificate (Form 22).
- Vehicle insurance certificate.
- Passport size photographs.
- Proof of citizenship.
- Temporary registration issued by the dealer.
- Invoice from the dealer.
- Customs’ Clearance Certificate for imported vehicles.
- Owner’s PAN card is required for vehicles exceeding Rs. 4 lakh in value.
- Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC).
- Form 34 for loan hypothecation (if applicable).
- Proof of residence, including documents such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID, ration card, bank account statement, registered rent agreement, or utility bills.
- Identity proof, which can be a PAN card, voter ID, Aadhaar card, passport, or driving licence.
Conclusion
Vehicle registration in India is a mandatory element for any kind of vehicle. You also need to register your vehicle for legal compliance and road safety. When you comply with the RTO process, it ensures regulatory adherence and contributes to maintaining road infrastructure.
Also, just keep in mind, platforms like the Parivahan Sewa Portal offer convenient access to important information, enhancing transparency for both you and the authorities.
