How to renew your vehicle’s RC (Registration Certificate): A step-by-step guide

Let’s talk about your vehicle’s registration certificate (RC)—a must-have document that proves your vehicle is legally registered with the government. For private vehicles, the RC is valid for 15 years from the date of first registration. After that, it needs to be renewed every five years to keep everything in line with the law. If your RC is nearing its expiry date, renewing it on time is essential—not just to avoid fines, but also to ensure you’re fully compliant with the rules.

Why is it important to renew your RC of your vehicle?

Renewing your RC is a legal requirement under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Driving a vehicle with an expired RC can lead to penalties and the possibility of your vehicle being seized. Furthermore, a valid RC ensures your vehicle is roadworthy and compliant with environmental and safety standards.

Documents required for RC renewal

To renew your vehicle’s RC, you will need to gather the following documents:

1. Form 25: This is the application form for RC renewal, available on the Parivahan website or at your local Regional Transport Office (RTO).

2. Original RC: A copy of your current vehicle registration certificate.

3. Valid insurance certificate: Ensure your vehicle insurance is up to date.

4. Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate: A valid PUC certificate is mandatory for all vehicles.

5. Proof of address: This can be your Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID, or utility bill.

6. Identity proof: PAN card, driving licence, or Aadhaar card.

7. Road tax receipt: If applicable, you may need to provide a receipt for road tax payment.

8. Fitness certificate: Required for commercial vehicles to confirm roadworthiness.

9. Fees: Applicable RC renewal fees as per your state’s RTO.

Step-by-step guide to renewing your RC

Follow these steps to renew your vehicle’s RC:

Step 1: Fill out Form 25

● Download Form 25 from the Parivahan Sewa website or collect it from your local RTO.

● Fill in the required details, such as your vehicle registration number, chassis number, and engine number.

Step 2: Submit the application and documents

● Visit your nearest RTO office with the filled Form 25 and all the required documents mentioned above.

● Submit the application to the RTO officer or at the designated counter.

Step 3: Pay the RC renewal fees

● Pay the renewal fees at the RTO. The fees may vary depending on your vehicle type (two-wheeler, car, or commercial vehicle) and the state in which your vehicle is registered.

Step 4: Vehicle inspection

● The RTO will schedule an inspection to verify your vehicle’s roadworthiness.

● Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and adheres to safety and environmental standards.

● For commercial vehicles, a fitness certificate is mandatory and may require a separate inspection process.

Step 5: Collect the renewed RC

● Once your application is approved, and the vehicle inspection is complete, the RTO will issue your renewed RC.

● You can collect the renewed RC in person or receive it via post, depending on your RTO’s procedure.

Renewing your RC online via Parivahan Sewa

For added convenience, you can initiate the RC renewal process online through the Parivahan Sewa portal:

1. Visit the Parivahan Sewa website.

2. Click on ‘Vehicle-Related Services’ and select your state.

3. Log in using your vehicle registration number and last five digits of the chassis number.

4. Select ‘Renewal of Registration’ under the service menu.

5. Fill in the required details and upload scanned copies of your documents.

6. Pay the renewal fees online.

7. Book an appointment for a vehicle inspection at your nearest RTO.

8. After the inspection, the renewed RC will be issued.

Know about RC renewal charges

Here are the different RC renewal charges applicable for different vehicles:

If you have an RC smart card, an additional charge of ₹200 is charged in Form 23A.

What happens when you fail to renew RC before expiry?

Once you have received the registration certificate of the vehicle, you need to renew it after 15 years. After renewal, the RC is again valid for the next 5 years. Renewing RC is essential. If you fail to do so, the RC will expire, and you may face legalities. However, you can still go for RC renewal after expiry. For this, you have to pay the following late fees.

Tips for a hassle-free RC renewal process

● Start early: Begin the renewal process at least one month before your RC’s expiry date.

● Ensure all documents are valid: Double-check that your insurance and PUC certificates are current.

● Keep a copy of all documents: Retain photocopies of the submitted documents for future reference.

● Stay updated on RTO rules: Fees and processes may vary across states, so it’s essential to check the latest guidelines.

Conclusion

Keeping up with all the essential documents of the vehicle including car insurance gives you peace of mind while driving. Registration certificate is a mandatory document so make sure it is up to date and renewed on time. Also, if you haven't yet invested in car insurance, you may surf the options available with Zurich Kotak Car Insurance today and enjoy comprehensive coverage.

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