Whether you are buying a used vehicle or selling your car or bike, it is important to transfer ownership legally and properly. The process of transferring ownership of a vehicle is important to avoid any legal complications in the future. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about the transfer of ownership of a vehicle in India.
When to transfer vehicle ownership?
Vehicle ownership transfer is required in the following circumstances:
- Reselling a vehicle: When you sell your car or any other vehicle, the ownership must be transferred to the buyer's name. This ensures that the RTO updates its records with the new owner’s details.
- Auctioned vehicle: If a vehicle is auctioned to pay off debts, the new owner must complete the necessary ownership transfer formalities to update the vehicle's records.
- In case of the owner's death: If the vehicle owner passes away, the ownership is transferred to the lawful heir. The legal heir must complete the transfer process to assume ownership rights and responsibilities.
RC transfer - why car ownership transfer is important?
The transfer of ownership of a vehicle is a legal process that ensures the new owner is recognised as the legal owner of the vehicle. It is important to transfer ownership to avoid any legal complications in the future. The transfer of ownership is necessary when you are buying or selling a vehicle, or when the registered owner of a vehicle passes away.
Importance of ownership transfer
The importance of transferring ownership of a vehicle includes:
- Legally registering the vehicle in the name of the new owner.
- Avoiding legal complications in case of accidents or legal disputes in the future.
- Allowing the new owner to renew the vehicle's insurance, pay road tax, and get the vehicle serviced.
Documents required for RC transfer
Generally, the following documents are necessary for the transfer of ownership of a vehicle:
- Form 29 and Form 30
- Vehicle registration certificate (RC)
- Vehicle insurance certificate
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
- PAN card (seller and purchaser) or Form 60
- Chassis and engine pencil print
- Proof of date of birth of the purchaser
- Proof of address (Aadhaar card, passport, utility bill, etc.)
- R.C. Book of the vehicle
- Purchaser's undertaking
- Passport size photograph
- Tax clearance certificate
- Form II
Some states in India may just require a few certificates for the RC transfer. However, the requirement for documents varies from one state to another.
Additional read: How to check challan status online
Step-by-step guide to vehicle ownership transfer
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you with the transfer of vehicle ownership process:
Step 1: Obtain the necessary documents from the seller, such as Form 29, Form 30, and RC of the vehicle.
Step 2: Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the RTO if the vehicle is registered in another state.
Step 3: Fill out Form 29 and Form 30 with the necessary details.
Step 4: Get the required documents verified by the RTO.
Step 5: Pay the applicable transfer fee as required by the RTO.
Step 6: Submit the application and documents to the RTO along with the transfer fee.
Step 7: Get the vehicle inspected by a Motor Vehicle Inspector (MVI).
Step 8: Once the RTO has verified the documents and completed the inspection, the transfer will be processed.
Step 9: Collect the new RC in the name of the new owner from the RTO.
You can check the RC transfer application status online on the Parivahan website using the application number.
Online vs offline RC transfer comparison
You can transfer the ownership of your vehicle online or offline. The online process is faster and more convenient, while the offline process involves visiting the RTO in person. To apply for the online transfer, you need to download the RTO Form 29 and Form 30 from the Parivahan website and apply for the transfer through their portal. For an offline transfer, you need to submit the necessary documents to the RTO in person.
Fees and charges for ownership transfer
The fees and charges for the transfer of ownership of a vehicle vary depending on the RTO. The transfer fee for transfers within the same state and inter-state transfer, will differ. The fees also differ depending on the age of the vehicle.
Common mistakes to avoid in RC transfer
Here are some common mistakes to avoid while transferring the ownership of a vehicle:
- Not obtaining the NOC from the RTO if the vehicle is registered in another state.
- Not verifying the documents properly before submitting them to the RTO.
- Not paying the applicable transfer fee and charges.
Additional read: What are RTO forms 28, 29, 30, and 35?
Benefits of timely RC transfer
Timely RC transfer has several benefits, such as:
- Legal ownership of the vehicle.
- Avoiding legal complications and penalties.
- The new owner being able to renew the vehicle's insurance and get it serviced.
In conclusion, transferring the ownership of a vehicle is an important legal process to ensure that the new owner is recognised as the legal owner of the vehicle. It is important to follow the necessary steps and submit the required documents to avoid any legal complications in the future. For more information, visit the Parivahan website or check with the relevant RTO.
