Transferring the Registration Certificate (RC), also known as the ownership transfer process, is a crucial legal step after selling your car. As per the Supreme Court’s ruling, all liabilities related to a vehicle—legal or financial—remain with the original owner until the RC is officially updated in the name of the new buyer. This makes the RC transfer not just important, but mandatory to avoid future complications. Here is a complete guide to help you understand the RC transfer process in India.

1. Intimate the RTO Within 14 Days

After selling your car, it’s essential to inform the Regional Transport Office (RTO) about the sale within 14 days. This intimation includes submitting an application and required documents for initiating the ownership transfer. Any delay can result in legal penalties or disputes, so timely submission is key.

2. Documents Required for RC Transfer

To process the transfer, the following documents must be submitted at the RTO:

  • Original Registration Certificate (RC): Must be in the name of the seller.
  • Form 29: Notification of ownership transfer, signed by both buyer and seller along with passport-sized photos.
  • Form 30: Report of transfer, also signed by both parties with photographs.
  • Form 28 (No Objection Certificate): Required only for interstate transfers. Some states like Maharashtra require it even for intercity transfers.
  • Valid Insurance and PUC Certificate: Must be current and submitted with the RC.
  • NCRB Report: Needed for interstate transfers to confirm the vehicle is not involved in criminal activities.

3. RC Transfer Fees

The standard fee for RC transfer is around ₹300 for cars, although this amount can slightly vary depending on the state.

RC Transfer Timeline

Thanks to digital infrastructure, many RTOs now process RC transfers within 7 working days. However, the average timeframe is 20 to 30 days. Interstate transfers typically take longer since they involve coordination between two RTOs—the seller’s and the buyer’s.

4. Checking RC Transfer Status

To track the status of your RC, visit the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways website at https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan/en. Scroll down to the RC Status tab and enter your vehicle number and verification code to view the current status. Alternatively, you can SMS “VAHAN” followed by your vehicle number to 7738299899.

CarDekho Gaadi RC Transfer Advantage

If the idea of visiting RTOs, managing documents, and waiting for approvals feels overwhelming, CarDekho Gaadi offers a simplified solution. When you sell your car at a CarDekho Gaadi Store, not only do you get the best market price, but they also handle the entire RC transfer process for free. This eliminates the need for agents or multiple follow-ups, offering a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

In summary, transferring the RC is a non-negotiable step after selling a car in India. Ensure all paperwork is completed promptly and accurately to safeguard yourself from future liabilities. Whether you choose to do it yourself or go through a trusted platform like CarDekho Gaadi, the key is to complete the process efficiently and legally.