Streamlined RTO New Vehicle Registration Process: Everything You Need to Know

Have you recently bought a new bike or car? If so, it is important that you register it right away with the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Registering the vehicle with the state transport authorities means that you are complying with lawful requirements and are legally allowed to take the vehicle on roads. Along with registering the vehicle, it is necessary to buy a motor insurance plan that provides a minimum of third-party coverage, as is mandated by prevailing laws. Now, it is advisable to begin the registration process at the earliest. With that in mind, here is a quick go-through of the steps you need to take for the same:

How to Register a New Vehicle at the RTO?

Before we detail the process, know that the registration can also be carried out by the car dealer. Generally, this service is free of charge, and your vehicle is registered first before its delivery. However, if you prefer to register your new vehicle yourself, then follow this procedure:

1. Visit the nearest RTO along with your new vehicle.
2. Ask for the registration form and fill it out.
3. Provide the necessary documents, after which the form and the documents will be vetted by the RTO authorities.
4. Make the payment for the registration charges. You might also have to pay the road tax. Ensure to collect the receipts for both.
5. Allow the RTO official to inspect the vehicle.
6. Provide any additional information needed to upload the vehicle data to the central database.
7. The make and model, fuel type of the car, engine capacity, and so on will be noted and entered into the database. This will be verified by the RTO Superintendent.
8. Once the data is verified, the Assistant Regional Transport Officer will proceed with approving the vehicle’s registration.
9. After the registration approval, a Registration Certificate and an RC smartcard will be generated.
10. You will receive these documents via post once they are ready for use.

At the time of registration of your vehicle, you also need a valid insurance policy. Buying the right kind of insurance for your vehicle is crucial. If you have bought a new car, it should be insured with a solid car insurance policy. While third-party insurance coverage is mandatory for all vehicles, you can go a step ahead and consider a comprehensive plan, too. It can cover your vehicle against multiple natural disasters, manmade calamities, fire, theft, and so on. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under motor insurance policy. *

Documents for New Vehicle Registration

Below is a list of documents required for vehicle registration:

1. Proof of identity
2. Proof of age
3. Proof of address
4. PAN card (Form 60 in the absence of PAN card)
5. Purchase invoice of the vehicle (provided by the dealer and the manufacturer)
6. Passport-sized photographs

You will also need to provide the engine number and the chassis number, along with the required forms.

Fees related to Vehicle Registration

The fees associated with registering different vehicles and availing related services are as follows:  

Vehicle registration and Services	Fees (in Rs.)
Two-wheeler bike/ motorcycle registration	300
Three-wheeler/quadricycle registration	600 (for transport); 1000 (for non-transport)
Car/ Four-wheeler/ Light motor vehicle registration	600 (for transport); 1000 (for non-transport)
Medium goods/passenger vehicle registration	1000
Heavy goods/ passenger vehicle registration	1500
Imported bike registration	2500
Imported car registration	5000
Other vehicles (not on this list)	3000
RC smartcard issue	200
RC details correction	50% of the registration charges for new vehicles
Duplicate RC issuance	50% of the registration charges for new vehicles

  It is important to ensure your vehicle is compliant with the law. That is why, you must check the validity and correctness of your RC from time to time. Checking the validity of your motor insurance plan is also equally crucial. If you have a bike, you must carry out your bike insurance renewal every year. This helps you stay in line with the laws as well as ensure consistent coverage.

What to Know About New Vehicle Registration

As a vehicle owner, you should be aware of the following points regarding vehicle registration:

1. The registration process might differ slightly depending on the region. For instance, the bike registration process in Maharashtra would be different from that of Assam. Read the details on the relevant RTO website before proceeding.
2. An RC is valid for a certain number of years only (generally, 15 years). After that, you would have to apply for renewal of the RC.
3. In case of loss of your RC, you can also apply for a duplicate RC. It can also be applied online.

Thus, registering your vehicle and having an RC is important as a vehicle owner. Ensure to also have a motor insurance policy to protect yourself from legal problems and third-party liabilities. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under motor insurance policy.*   *Standard T&C apply. Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.