Misplacing your vehicle’s RC can be a stressful experience. But don’t worry, getting a duplicate is much simpler than you think. Whether you prefer to go online or offline, we’ve laid out everything you need to know—step-by-step—so you can breeze through the process and get your vehicle back on the road faster.
Your RC serves as your vehicle’s legal ID. Without it, you could face:
₹10,000 fines under the Motor Vehicles Act.
Difficulty selling, transferring, or renewing insurance.
Potential fraud if stolen (such as illegal resale).
Don’t let a lost RC cause unnecessary headaches. Here’s how you can quickly get a duplicate!
Head to your nearest police station within 24 hours of losing your RC.
If your RC was stolen, filing an FIR is mandatory. You’ll need to submit a copy of the FIR when you apply.
Visit parivahan.gov.in.
Choose your state and RTO.
Enter your vehicle’s registration number and click "Proceed."
Choose the “Duplicate Registration Certificate” option from the menu.
Enter the last 5 digits of your chassis number.
FIR copy (notarized).
Form 26A (download and fill beforehand).
Valid insurance and PUC certificates.
Address/ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, or driving license).
Fees range from ₹150 (bikes) to ₹2,500 (imported cars).
Book a vehicle inspection slot and submit the form at your local RTO.
Pro Tip: Save your progress on Parivahan to avoid redoing the steps!
Prefer to handle things in person? Here’s the offline method:
Download Form 26A from your RTO’s website.
Attach the FIR, insurance, PUC, and ID/address proofs.
Submit it at the RTO where your vehicle was registered.
Schedule a quick chassis/engine inspection (takes about 15 minutes).
Avoid Delays:
Visit RTOs early on weekdays to avoid long lines.
Carry 2–3 photocopies of all documents to save time.
Here’s everything you’ll need for a smooth application:
FIR copy (notarized)
Form 26A (duly filled)
Valid insurance & PUC certificates
Address proof (Aadhaar, utility bill, etc.)
ID proof (PAN/passport/driving license)
Tax receipts (for commercial vehicles)
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Two-Wheeler: ₹150
Car/Non-Transport Vehicle: ₹300
Commercial Vehicles: ₹500–₹750
Imported Cars: ₹2,500
These fees are standard nationwide under Rule 53(2) of the Motor Vehicles Act.
Once you’ve applied, you can check your application status through these methods:
Online: Use your application number on the Parivahan portal.
SMS Alerts: Register your mobile number during the application process to receive updates.
mParivahan App: Get real-time updates on your phone (Android/iOS).
Processing Time: 15–30 days. If your application is delayed, you can escalate the issue via the RTO’s grievance cell.
Smart Card: Waterproof, chip-enabled, and portable—ideal for daily use.
RC Book: Prone to wear but easier to update.
Submit your old RC + Form 26 at the RTO.
Pay ₹200 fee.
Receive the card via post in 2–3 weeks.
Delaying the FIR: File within 24 hours to avoid legal complications.
Skipping the Vehicle Inspection: Missing inspection slots could delay your application by 7–10 days.
Typos in Chassis Number: Double-check your chassis number against the engine plate to avoid mistakes.
Pro Tip: Keep a digital copy of your RC on the mParivahan app for quick access during checks!
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Getting a duplicate RC is easier than you think, whether you’re opting for the online or offline process. Just follow these clear steps, and you’ll have your duplicate in hand before you know it.
If you’ve also recently purchased a two-wheeler on a loan, ensure that the necessary documents like the NOC from your bank are ready when applying. And if you ever misplace your RC again, you now know exactly how to quickly get a duplicate!
Stay calm, follow the steps, and get back on the road in no time. Safe travels!
No! An FIR is mandatory to block misuse. Failing to file one could result in fines.
Submit new address proof (like a rental agreement or electricity bill) and Form 33 at your RTO.
Yes, but you’ll need to attach an NOC from your bank/financier.
Yes! If you’re moving permanently, update your address using Form 28.
