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How to Transfer Car Ownership in India | RC Transfer Guide

August 30, 2025 | 3 min read | How to Transfer Car Ownership in India
Blog

After buying a second-hand car, or getting a gift from some family member, the most important part is to transfer car ownership. The official proof of ownership of a car is the Registration Certificate (RC). You can apply for an RC transfer by submitting the required forms, and documents at your local RTO, or visit your State online portal. Once, the fee is paid and the details are verified, car ownership details would be updated on the RC. Without the RC transfer, both the seller and buyer may face legal, as well as financial complications.

This blog is your RC transfer guide, with the knowledge of how to transfer car ownership. Read along to know the whole process.

Understanding RC Transfer

The procedure of updating the RC to change the vehicle ownership is known as RC transfer. The transfer can have various reasons, like a sale within the same family, gifting a used car to a known. Transferring the car’s records and keeping it updated saves you from any future legal troubles, and fines. This process also protects you from liabilities associated with the car after ownership transfer. To be sure, you can verify your car RC details anytime on the official VAHAN portal.

Why Car Ownership Transfer is Important

Legally, you are bound to get the car ownership transferred, as it is mandatory. RC contains essential information about the car like owner details, chassis number, engine number, etc. If the RC transfer doesn’t happen on time, every traffic fine, insurance claim, or legal issues comes under the name of the previous owner. This makes the car ownership transfer necessary and important.

Documents Required for RC Transfer

To successfully complete a car RC transfer, you’ll need the following documents:

  • Original Registration Certificate (RC)

  • Form 28, 29, and 30 (for ownership transfer)

  • Valid car insurance

  • Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate

  • Address proof of buyer and seller

  • Passport-sized photographs

You can initiate your RC Transfer online through the Parivahan Sewa portal.

Step-by-Step Guide for Car Ownership Transfer

  1. Obtain No Objection Certificate (NOC): If transferring a car between states, get an NOC from the RTO.

  2. Fill Required Forms: Complete Forms 28, 29, and 30 for RC transfer.

  3. Submit Documents to RTO: Submit all documents for verification.

  4. Pay Transfer Fees: Pay applicable RC transfer charges.

  5. Get New RC: Once approved, the RTO will issue a new RC in the buyer’s name.

Key Points to Remember About Car RC Transfer

  • RC transfer is mandatory for all used car transactions.

  • Always verify the buyer’s and seller’s details to avoid fraud.

  • Ensure the car insurance policy is also transferred along with RC.

  • Keep copies of all ownership transfer documents for future reference.

Conclusion

For avoiding any future legal or financial complications, be sure to get RC transfer done for updating the car ownership details. If you buy, sell of gift a car to someone, ensure timely transfer of car ownership and verify the details through RTO. The car RC is the only proof of ownership, and it is mandatory for you to get it updated with the transaction of the car. Do not delay the car ownership transfer as you may come across heavy fines or even legal troubles. A seamless RC transfer can be done by keeping the required documents and forms handy and readily available. Keep all the required documents ready and available for a seamless RC transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take to complete an RC Transfer?
An RC Transfer typically takes 7 to 21 days after submitting all required documents and fees at the RTO. Timelines may vary depending on your state RTO and whether the car ownership transfer is within the same state or interstate.

2. Can I do car ownership transfer online?
Yes, you can initiate your RC Transfer online through the Parivahan Sewa portal or check your car RC details on the VAHAN portal. However, physical document verification at the RTO is still required to complete the ownership transfer process.

3. What is the cost of car RC transfer in India?
The car RC transfer fee generally ranges from ₹300 to ₹500, depending on your state and vehicle type. Additional charges may apply for hypothecation removal, interstate transfers, or late submissions of ownership transfer applications.

4. What happens if I don’t transfer car ownership?
If you don’t complete car RC transfer, the previous owner remains legally responsible for accidents, traffic fines, and insurance claims related to the car. Always complete ownership transfer to avoid legal and financial issues.