Introduction
Selling or buying a used car in India isn’t complete until the RC (Registration Certificate) ownership is legally transferred. Thanks to digital transformation, it’s now possible to transfer RC ownership online in India 2025 using the official Parivahan portal. This 2025 guide walks you through the entire online RC transfer process, required documents, fees, and timelines—ensuring your transaction is fully compliant and hassle-free.
Why Online RC Transfer Is Mandatory
The RC (Registration Certificate) is the official proof of a vehicle’s ownership. When ownership is not transferred after a car is sold:
- The seller remains legally liable for any accidents, traffic challans, or crimes.
- The buyer may face issues while updating insurance or during resale.
- Claims on motor insurance can be rejected due to ownership mismatch.
If you’re selling your car soon, make sure you also read about 5 hidden factors that affect used car valuation in India.
Step-by-Step Guide to Transfer RC Ownership Online in India
To start the ownership change, visit the Ministry of Road Transport’s Parivahan website. Select “Vehicle Related Services” under Online Services.
Step 1: Select State and RTO
Choose the state and RTO where the vehicle is currently registered. For example, if you’re selling a car in Bangalore, choose Karnataka and your local RTO like KA-03 (Indiranagar).
Step 2: Enter Vehicle Details
Enter the registration number and the last 5 digits of the chassis number. Complete OTP verification.
Step 3: Choose “Transfer of Ownership”
Select the service titled “Transfer of Ownership.” This initiates the legal change of the registered owner.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
The portal will prompt you to upload:
- Form 29 and Form 30 (available under Downloads)
- Valid insurance policy
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
- Buyer’s Aadhaar or PAN card
- Address proof of buyer (utility bill, passport, etc.)
- Passport-size photo of the buyer
- Scanned RC card
Documents must be clear and match vehicle details. Errors can cause delays.
Step 5: Pay Fees
Online fee payment is mandatory. The typical RC transfer fee ranges from ₹300–₹500 depending on your state. Accepted modes include UPI, credit/debit cards, and internet banking.
Step 6: Submission and Tracking
Once submitted, you’ll receive an acknowledgment receipt and application reference number. You can track the status through the Know Your Application Status link.
Documents Required for RC Transfer
| Requirement | Seller | Buyer |
|---|---|---|
| RC Smart Card | ✅ | – |
| Form 29 & 30 | ✅ | ✅ |
| Insurance Certificate | ✅ | ✅ |
| PUC Certificate | ✅ | – |
| Aadhaar/PAN | ✅ | ✅ |
| Address Proof | – | ✅ |
| Passport-size Photo | – | ✅ |
It’s recommended that sellers also get an affidavit and delivery note signed for legal protection post-sale. You can create these easily from online notarization platforms.
Important Tips in 2025
- RC Transfer must be initiated within 14 days of the sale date.
- If the car had a loan, make sure hypothecation is removed first.
- States like Maharashtra and Delhi allow e-signatures on RC transfer forms.
- Pending traffic challans must be cleared before applying.
- Insurance should also be transferred to the buyer’s name; here’s how to transfer car insurance after resale.
How Long Does Online RC Transfer Take?
Depending on the state and RTO, transfer time can vary:
| State | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Karnataka | 10–15 working days |
| Maharashtra | 7–10 working days |
| Delhi | 5–7 working days |
| Tamil Nadu | 10–14 working days |
| Telangana | 8–12 working days |
Delays may occur due to document verification or pending dues.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uploading unclear or mismatched documents
- Skipping pending challan checks
- Not informing the RTO of the sale formally
- Selling a car with active hypothecation
- Forgetting to transfer insurance coverage
Before listing your vehicle for resale, use our Car Loan EMI Calculator to understand pre-closure penalties or EMIs due if your car is still on loan.
Legal Consequences of Not Transferring RC
If the RC remains in the seller’s name:
- All legal and financial liabilities remain with the seller.
- Insurance may not cover damages in case of an accident.
- The vehicle can be blacklisted for RTO services.
Always initiate the transfer and track progress using your application number via the Parivahan portal.
Conclusion
With digital systems in place, it’s now faster and easier to transfer RC ownership online in India. Follow the steps carefully, ensure all documents are accurate, and keep a record of the transaction for your own protection. A successful RC transfer is not just a formality—it’s essential to protect yourself legally and financially.
