Lost your vehicle's Registration Certificate (RC)? Don't worry! You can apply for a duplicate RC online through the Vahan Parivahan portal. The RC is a crucial document that proves ownership of your vehicle, and driving without it can lead to penalties.
This comprehensive guide explains how to apply for duplicate RC online, documents required, fees, and step-by-step procedure for getting a new RC.
When Do You Need Duplicate RC?
- Lost RC: Original RC misplaced or lost
- Stolen RC: RC stolen along with vehicle or separately
- Damaged RC: RC torn, water damaged, or unreadable
- Mutilated RC: Details not visible due to wear
- Destroyed RC: RC destroyed in fire or accident
Documents Required for Duplicate RC
- FIR/NCR Copy: Police complaint for lost/stolen RC
- Affidavit: On stamp paper declaring loss of RC
- Insurance Policy: Current valid insurance copy
- PUC Certificate: Valid pollution certificate
- Address Proof: Aadhaar/Voter ID/Passport
- Identity Proof: PAN Card/Aadhaar/Voter ID
- Passport Photos: 2-3 recent photographs
- Form 26: Application for duplicate RC
- Road Tax Receipt: Proof of tax payment
- Old RC Copy: If available (photocopy)
Step-by-Step Duplicate RC Application Process
Step 1: File FIR/NCR
- Visit nearest police station
- File complaint for lost/stolen RC
- Get FIR copy or NCR (Non-Cognizable Report)
- Note the FIR number and date
Step 2: Prepare Affidavit
- Get affidavit on ₹10-₹50 stamp paper
- State that original RC is lost
- Mention vehicle details (registration number, chassis, engine)
- Get it notarized
Step 3: Visit Vahan Portal
- Go to vahan.parivahan.gov.in
- Select your state
- Click on "Duplicate RC" or "Issue of Duplicate Certificate"
- Read instructions and continue
Step 4: Enter Vehicle Details
- Enter vehicle registration number
- Enter chassis number
- Enter engine number
- Verify owner details displayed
Step 5: Fill Application Form
- Fill Form 26 online
- Enter reason for duplicate RC
- Enter FIR details
- Update contact information if needed
Step 6: Upload Documents
- Upload FIR copy
- Upload affidavit
- Upload insurance copy
- Upload ID and address proof
- Upload photograph
Step 7: Pay Fees Online
- Review fee breakdown
- Pay via Net Banking/Card/UPI
- Save payment receipt
Step 8: Book RTO Appointment
- Select RTO office
- Choose date and time slot
- Download appointment slip
Step 9: Visit RTO
- Visit RTO on scheduled date
- Carry all original documents
- Vehicle verification may be required
- Submit documents for verification
- Duplicate RC will be dispatched via post
Duplicate RC Fees
| Fee Type | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Duplicate RC Fee | ₹300 - ₹500 |
| Smart Card Fee | ₹200 |
| Service Charge | ₹50 - ₹100 |
| Postal Charge | ₹50 - ₹100 |
| Total (Approximate) | ₹600 - ₹900 |
Note: Fees vary by state. Additional charges may apply for late fees or vehicle inspection.
Affidavit Format for Lost RC
I, [Your Full Name], S/o or D/o [Father's Name], aged [Age] years, resident of [Complete Address], do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as under:
1. That I am the registered owner of vehicle bearing Registration No. [Vehicle Number].
2. That the original Registration Certificate of the above vehicle has been lost/misplaced on [Date] at [Place].
3. That I have filed an FIR/NCR bearing No. [FIR Number] dated [Date] at [Police Station Name].
4. That I require duplicate RC for the same vehicle.
5. That the above statements are true to the best of my knowledge and belief.
DEPONENT
[Signature]
Timeline for Duplicate RC
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Online Application | Same day |
| Document Verification at RTO | 1-2 days |
| RC Processing | 5-7 working days |
| Dispatch via Speed Post | 3-5 days |
| Total Time | 10-15 working days |
Check Duplicate RC Application Status
- Visit vahan.parivahan.gov.in
- Select your state
- Click on "Know Your Application Status"
- Enter application number
- Enter chassis number
- View current status
Can I Drive Without RC?
While waiting for duplicate RC:
- Keep FIR Copy: Carry FIR copy while driving
- Application Receipt: Keep duplicate RC application receipt
- Insurance: Carry valid insurance copy
- DigiLocker: RC in DigiLocker is legally valid
- mParivahan: Virtual RC on app is accepted
Penalty for Driving Without RC
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Driving without RC | ₹500 - ₹2,000 |
| Not producing RC on demand | ₹500 |
| If RC not produced within specified time | Vehicle can be impounded |
Special Cases
Duplicate RC for Financed Vehicle
- Get NOC from bank/financier
- Bank may have original RC - verify first
- Bank's letter required for application
Duplicate RC for Deceased Owner's Vehicle
- Death certificate required
- Legal heir certificate needed
- Can combine with ownership transfer
Duplicate RC if Vehicle Stolen
- FIR is mandatory (not NCR)
- Wait for police verification
- NOC from police after investigation
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is FIR mandatory for duplicate RC?
Yes, FIR/NCR is mandatory if RC is lost or stolen. For damaged RC, the damaged original must be surrendered.
2. Can I get duplicate RC online without visiting RTO?
Application is online, but RTO visit is usually required for document verification and vehicle inspection.
3. How long does it take to get duplicate RC?
Usually 10-15 working days from application submission.
4. What if I find original RC after getting duplicate?
Original RC becomes invalid. You must surrender it to RTO if found.
5. Can I sell vehicle with duplicate RC?
Yes, duplicate RC is as valid as original RC for all purposes including sale.
6. Is vehicle inspection required for duplicate RC?
Some RTOs require vehicle inspection to verify chassis and engine numbers.