How to Renew Your Vehicles Registration Certificate (RC) - A Step-by-Step Guide

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Vehicle RC renewal is a mandatory process to continue using your vehicle legally after the initial registration period. Every vehicle in India needs a valid RC because it certifies a vehicle’s registration and identifies its legal owner.

You can also find other crucial vehicle-related details on the RC, such as the vehicle’s class, chassis, and engine numbers. It’s an essential document for every Indian vehicle owner because driving without a valid RC is illegal. You can get hefty penalties, and your vehicle can be seized by authorities (in extreme scenarios).

Generally, RC on private vehicles is valid for 15 years from the registration date. Then it requires timely renewal to maintain the vehicle’s registration validity. If your vehicle’s RC is nearing expiry, then you can renew it using the steps shared in this vehicle registration renewal guide.

How to Renew Your Vehicles Registration Certificate (RC)

When and Why to Renew Your RC

Renewal Timeline

You can renew your RC no more than 60 days before its scheduled expiry. So, you should proceed with the RTO RC renewal process if your vehicle’s RC is only valid for the next 60 days or less.

Benefits of Timely Renewal

Timely RC renewal is a must to keep your vehicle legally compliant with applicable laws and regulations. It will protect you from heavy fines and penalties, and even vehicle seizures. Besides legal compliance and safety, timely renewal also maintains the validity of your vehicle insurance and enhances its resale value, resulting in higher profits.

Documents Required for RC Renewal

You will require all the following documents for successful vehicle registration renewal:

Form 25

It’s the application form you must fill out for RC renewal.

Original RC

A copy of the original RC is needed for verification.

Insurance Certificate

Valid third-party or comprehensive insurance policy papers are required because uninsured vehicles cannot receive a renewed RC.

Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate

A valid PUC certificate is mandatory for a successful RC renewal.

Road Tax Receipt

Proof of up-to-date road tax payment is needed.

Identity Proof

You can share any valid identity proof, such as a PAN card, Aadhaar card, or passport.

Address Proof

Any valid address proof should be submitted with the RC renewal form, such as a recent utility bill, Aadhaar card, voter ID, etc., to verify your current address.

Fitness Certificate

A fitness certificate is required for almost all commercial vehicles. In some cases, fitness certificates are also required for private cars after a certain age.

Step-by-Step RC Renewal Process (Offline)

If you’re exploring a step-by-step process on how to renew RC offline, then follow the instructions shared below.

Visit the Nearest RTO with Documents

Locate the nearest RTO in your city or town and visit it with all the documents shared in the previous section. You can check your state-specific document requirements to know what documents are needed by your local RTO for a smooth application process.

Submit Form 25

Collect Form 25 (RC renewal form) from the RTO office, fill in the required details, submit it along with the required documents, and pay the RC renewal fees.

Vehicle Inspection

Upon receiving the application, the RTO will schedule a physical inspection of the vehicle to verify if it’s fit to run on Indian roads.

Collect the Renewed RC.

Once your vehicle clears the physical inspection, the RTO will issue a renewed RC.

How to Renew RC Online via Parivahan Portal

If you want to file an RC renewal application online, then you should use the Parivahan RC renewal services. Follow the step-by-step process shared below:

Visit the Parivahan Sewa portal.
Hover over the top section, then select "online services," followed by "vehicle-related services," and finally choose your state.
Log in using your vehicle’s registration number and choose the nearest RTO.
Locate RC-related services from the drop-down list of ‘services.’
Enter all the required details accurately and upload scanned copies of documents to proceed further with the RTO RC renewal process.
Please proceed to pay the renewal fees online and kindly schedule an appointment for vehicle inspection.
Once the inspection is successful, you’ll receive the renewed RC.

Registration Certificate (RC) Renewal Fees and Validity

Fee Structure as per Rule 81 of CMVR 1989

Anyone proceeding with vehicle registration renewal should be aware of the renewal fee structure according to Rule 81.

Vehicle Type	RC Renewal Fees (₹)
Invalid carriage	50
Motorcycle	300
Three-wheeler/quadricycle/light motor vehicles (non-transport)	600
Three-wheeler/light motor vehicles (transport)	1,000
Medium passenger motor vehicles	1,000
Medium goods vehicle	1,000
Heavy passenger motor vehicle	1,500
Heavy-duty vehicle	1,500
Imported motorcycle	2,500
Imported motor vehicle	5,000
Other vehicle categories	3,000

Additional Charges for Delay or Re-inspection

If you apply for RC renewal after the expiry date, then additional charges of ₹300/month will be applied on motorcycles and ₹500/month for passenger cars. A ₹200 fee is charged if the RC smart card is reissued or renewed.

Conclusion

Timely vehicle registration renewal is non-negotiable for all vehicle owners. Failing to renew your vehicle’s RC will attract hefty penalties and may even lead to vehicle seizure. However, you can avoid such challenges by renewing your vehicle’s RC on time.

You can follow the step-by-step guidance on how to renew RC online and offline, as discussed in this blog, for a smooth experience. If your vehicle’s RC renewal is due and your insurance has expired, you must first insure the vehicle with a relevant motor insurance policy, as this is a mandatory requirement for renewing the RC.

You can take car insurance provided by Shriram General Insurance, as all our policies are known for providing enhanced coverage at budget-friendly premiums.

FAQs

What is the validity period of a private vehicle RC in India?

A private vehicle generally receives a 15-year validity period from the date of registration.

Can I renew my RC online in all states?

While most states provide online RC renewal, a few states might not. Always check if your state is listed on the Parivahan Sewa portal to proceed with an online application.

What happens if I miss the RC renewal deadline?

You can still file the RC renewal application, but you’ll have to pay the incurred penalties.

Is vehicle inspection mandatory for RC renewal?

Yes, RTO will not approve your RC renewal application without a vehicle inspection.

How long does it take to get the renewed RC?

The duration varies from state to state and from one case to another. However, if everything in the application process goes smoothly, you can expect to receive the renewed RC within a few working days or weeks.