How to apply for a vehicle's duplicate Registration Certificate online: Step-by-step process explained

A vehicle's Registration Certificate (RC) is the mandatory document that shows your vehicle is registered with the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and is approved to be used on the roads. Now, what if you lose your RC, someone steals it, or it gets damaged? Well, you don't have to register the vehicle again. You can apply for a duplicate instead.

What documents do you need?
The main form is Form 26. You use it to apply for a duplicate RC. Depending on your case and your RTO, you may also need the following documents:

-- Form 26 (duplicate RC application form)
-- FIR (if the RC is lost or stolen)
-- Valid insurance
-- Valid PUC certificate
-- Identity and address proof of the owner, such as Aadhaar card and PAN card
-- Affidavit or declaration (Only if the registering authority asks for it).
-- Chassis number imprint (Only if the RTO asks for it)
-- Financier’s NOC (If the vehicle has an active loan)

It is worth noting that rules can vary by state, RTO and vehicle category. Check the document list for your RTO before you apply.

How to apply for a duplicate RC online
-- Go to parivahan.gov.in and open the vehicle-related services section. Select your state where the vehicle is registered.
--  Enter the required vehicle details.
-- Choose the duplicate RC service.
-- Fill in the application form and double-check your information.
-- Upload the required documents (mentioned earlier).
-- Pay the fee and save the receipt, along with the application number.
-- Some states ask you to submit documents in person or book an appointment.
-- You can use your application number to see the progress. Once the RTO approves it, it processes your duplicate RC through the usual procedure.

Can you apply for it offline?
Yes. Go to the RTO where your vehicle is registered. Submit Form 26 with the required documents. Pay the fee and keep the acknowledgement receipt. The RTO may ask for extra documents or verification, depending on your vehicle and your reason for applying.

Fee for a duplicate RC
The fee depends on your vehicle category, applicable charges, and the state where the vehicle is registered. The Parivahan portal shows the exact amount during the application. Check the figure for your vehicle.

How long does the process take?
The time depends on your RTO, how fast it verifies your documents, and whether you need to visit in person.