How to Transfer Vehicle Ownership in India
When you buy or sell a used vehicle, the Registration Certificate (RC) must be transferred to the new owner within 30 days. Both buyer and seller must complete their parts of the process.
Fees
Transfer fee: ₹300–₹500. Road tax: varies by state for interstate transfers. Smart card RC: ₹200.
Steps
6 steps
Timeline
15–30 days for new RC. You can drive with the transfer receipt during this period.
Step-by-Step Process
Seller: Inform RTO of Sale
The seller must inform the RTO about the transfer using Form 29 (Notice of Transfer) and Form 30 (Report of Transfer) within 14 days of sale.
Buyer: Apply for Transfer
The buyer applies for RC transfer at the RTO where the vehicle is registered, using Form 29 and Form 30.
Submit Documents
Both parties submit: original RC, valid insurance in buyer's name, seller's PAN card or Form 60, buyer's address proof, and delivery note (proof of sale).
Pay Transfer Fee
Pay the transfer fee (₹300–₹500) and road tax difference (if applicable for interstate transfer).
Vehicle Inspection
The RTO may inspect the vehicle to verify chassis and engine numbers match the RC.
Receive Transferred RC
New RC in the buyer's name is dispatched within 15–30 days.
Documents / Requirements
- ·Form 29 and Form 30 (available at RTO or online)
- ·Original RC book
- ·Valid insurance in buyer's name
- ·Seller's PAN card or Form 60
- ·Buyer's address proof (Aadhaar)
- ·PUC certificate
- ·NOC from financer (if vehicle was on loan)
- ·NOC from RTO (if interstate transfer)
Tips
- →Get the insurance transferred to your name BEFORE applying for RC transfer.
- →Clear all pending challans on the vehicle before transfer — unpaid challans may block the transfer.
- →For interstate transfers, get an NOC from the originating state's RTO first.
- →Verify the vehicle is not stolen, not blacklisted, and has no pending court cases.