Purchasing a second-hand vehicle involves more than a financial
transaction. The registration certificate (RC) must also transfer from
seller to buyer. Completing an RC transfer allows the new vehicle
owner to avoid future legal issues.
In this article, we describe the required documentation to complete
an RC transfer as well as the RC transfer procedures.
RC Transfer Explained
An RC transfer updates the ownership of a vehicle in the Regional
Transport Office (RTO) records. The buyer assumes legal ownership
of the vehicle when the buyer's name is recorded in the registration
certificate.Importance of RC Transfer
There are many consequences of an RC transfer not being
completed. These include:
- The previous vehicle owner will continue to receive traffic
citations.
- The previous owner will become liable for any accidents or illegal
acts involving the vehicle.
- The vehicle will be difficult to sell.
- Insurance claims and policy renewals will be problematic.
RC transfer is important for buyers and sellers.RC Transfer Documentation
The following documentation is required to transfer ownership of a
vehicle:
1. Registration Certificate
The RTO must be provided the original RC (book or card) to
complete an RC transfer.
2. Form 29
Form 29 is completed by the seller to notify the Regional Transport
Office (RTO) the ownership of the motor vehicle is being sold and
transferred.
3. Form 30
Form 30 is the application for the intimation and transfer of
ownership. This form is signed by both the buyer and the seller.
4. Valid Vehicle Insurance Certificate
An active insurance policy for the vehicle is required. It is
recommended to transfer the insurance policy to the new owner
after the RC is transferred.
5. Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate
A valid PUC Certificate is required to prove that the vehicle is
compliant with the emission norms.
6. Address Proof of the Buyer
The following documents are proof of the buyer’s address.• Aadhaar Card
• Passport
• Voter ID Card
• Utility Bill
• Driving License
7. Identity Proof of the Buyer
The following documents are proof of the buyer’s identity.
• Aadhaar Card
• PAN Card
• Passport
• Driving License
• Voter ID Card
8. Passport Size Photographs
Passport size photographs of the buyer may be required by the RTO.
9. Sale Agreement or Delivery Note
Sale Agreement serves as documentary proof of sale and helps
resolve disputes.
10. No Objection Certificate (NOC) (If Applicable)
NOC from the original RTO is mandatory if the vehicle is transferred
to another state.
11. Loan Clearance Certificate (If Applicable)
If the vehicle is sold post financing, NOC from the financing
company is required to complete the transfer.12. Form 35 (Hypothecated Vehicles)
Form 35 is needed when a loan is paid and the hypothecation is to
be removed.
Inter-State RC Transfer Additional Documents
If the vehicle is being transferred to a different state, the following
documents may be needed:
• Original NOC from the old RTO
• Road tax receipt from the new state
• Buyer’s proof of new address
• Vehicle inspection report (if asked by the RTO)
RC Transfer Steps
RC Transfer steps generally includes the following:
1. Buyer and seller complete and sign the documents.
2. Documents are submitted to the concerned RTO.
3. RTO reviews the documents and checks the vehicle.
4. Transfer fee is paid.
5. Ownership Transfer is processed by the RTO.
6. A new RC is generated in favor of the Buyer.
RC Transfer Timeline
RTO and case complexity determine the time taken. Generally, RC
transfer is done in 15 to 30 days.RC Transfer Importance
RC transfer is an important activity in a used vehicle purchase and
sale transaction. Missing any documents or having incorrect details
will lead to delays and legal issues. Proper document preparation
will ease the process for both Buyer and Seller.
It is a good practice to confirm specific state and RTO requirements
prior to your visit as document and procedural requirements can
vary by state.