Updated on 27 Nov 2025
Purchasing a second-hand car or bike is an excellent way to save up funds. However, before you make the payment and take the keys, it's crucial to check the documents. When purchasing a used vehicle, the papers are just as essential as the vehicle itself. Without proper documents, you could face legal issues later on, be held accountable for things the previous owner did or even lose ownership rights.
In this blog, we will guide you through the documents you need, particularly the ones you need to submit to the RTO.
Forms to submit to the RTO
Once you have found a second-hand car or bike you want to purchase, and both parties have agreed on the price, it's time you begin the legal work. The seller and the buyer must visit the RTO and submit several forms. All these forms make the transfer of ownership official. Now, let’s take a look at them:
1. Form 29: Notice of transfer of ownership
Form 29 is a notice to inform the RTO that the current owner is selling the vehicle. It has to be filled out and signed by the seller. This particular form is submitted in duplicate (2 copies). It tells the RTO that the vehicle is being handed over to the new owner.
2. Form 30: Report of transfer of ownership
Form 30 is to report the transfer of ownership to the RTO. It's a follow-up to Form 29 and is submitted by the buyer. This form needs to be submitted within 14 days of the sale. It proves that the buyer is now responsible for the vehicle.
3. Form 28: No Objection Certificate (NOC)
This form is required only when the vehicle is being moved from one RTO jurisdiction to another (for instance, if the car is bought in Bangalore but will be used in Delhi). It's also necessary if the vehicle is under a loan and it's registered in a different state. The seller should get this form signed by the previous RTO to confirm that there are no criminal cases or pending dues on the vehicle.
4. Form 35: Termination of hypothecation
If the bike or car was bought on a loan, the seller must provide a Form 35 and a letter from the bank stating that the loan has been fully paid and the hypothecation (loan agreement) has been cancelled.
5. Valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
This particular certificate shows that the vehicle satisfies the pollution control standards. It’s mandatory to have a valid PUC certificate at the time of the sale. The buyer must ensure that this certificate has not expired.
6. Valid insurance certificate
A vehicle cannot be transferred or driven on Indian roads without insurance. The two or four wheeler insurance should be valid at the time of the sale. After making the purchase, the buyer must transfer the insurance to their name.
The role of registration certificate when you buy a used car
The RC (Registration Certificate) is one of the most crucial documents when purchasing a second-hand vehicle. It proves who the legal owner of the vehicle is and includes certain important details, such as:
- Owner’s address and name
- Vehicle registration number
- RTO where the vehicle is registered
- Engine number and chassis number
- Registration date
- Vehicle class (commercial, private, etc.)
- Fuel type (CNG, diesel, petrol, etc.)
The RC must be original and not a photocopy. When purchasing a used vehicle, check that the RC matches the vehicle in every way. Make sure of the following things:
- There are no signs of forgery or tampering.
- The chassis and engine numbers on the RC match the ones on the vehicle.
- The name of the owner matches the seller’s ID proof.
Apart from that, you should also confirm that the RC does not mention any hypothecation/loan, or if it does, the seller should clear it and submit Form 35. If not, the vehicle still technically belongs to the bank. Once you purchase the vehicle, the RC needs to be transferred into your name. You must also submit the required forms to the RTO, which include Forms 29 and 30, along with the following:
- Original RC
- Copy of your address and ID proof.
- PUC certificate
- Passport-sized photographs
- Copy of a valid insurance
The RTO will update the RC and then send a new one with your name on it. This is your proof that you are now the legal owner. If you lose the RC before the transfer is completed, it will be difficult to prove ownership, and you might face issues in insurance claims, using the vehicle on the roads and even selling the vehicle in the future.
Conclusion
Purchasing a used bike or car is a wise choice, but only if the paperwork is in order. Always check the pollution certificate, insurance and registration certificate and then submit the required forms to the RTO on time. This will ensure you become a legal owner and avoid all future issues. With the correct documents, you can enjoy a new vehicle with no hassle.
While you take care of the legal matter, let us help you stay protected on the road. For helpful comprehensive or third party car insurance advice, just fill out the form on this page. We will guide you with the correct options based on your needs.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.