RTO Form 26 is an essential document provided for by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in India. It is primarily used to apply for a duplicate Registration Certificate (RC) for your vehicle. Whether your RC has been lost, stolen, or damaged, this form is required to obtain a replacement. Knowing how to correctly fill out and submit Form 26 can save you much time and effort.
In this blog, we’ll explain what RTO Form 26 is, how to fill it out, download it, and things to remember when applying for a duplicate RC.
What is RTO Form 26?
RTO Form 26 is a legal document required to apply for a duplicate RC for a vehicle. It is used when your original RC is:
- Lost: If you've misplaced your RC and cannot locate it.
- Stolen: If the RC has been stolen, a copy of the FIR is required.
- Damaged: If your RC is torn or rendered unusable due to wear and tear.
The form contains fields for providing your vehicle details, personal details, and information related to the loss or damage of the RC. Here’s what RTO Form 26 typically includes:
- Owner’s details: Name, address, and contact information.
- Vehicle details: Registration number, make, model, and chassis number.
- Reason for applying: Explanation of how the RC was lost, stolen, or damaged.
- Financier's consent: If the vehicle is under loan, the financier’s approval is mandatory.
- Declaration: The applicant’s signature attesting to the correctness of the provided details.
How to Fill Form 26?
Filling RTO Form 26 is straightforward, but accuracy is crucial. Follow these steps:
- Owner’s Details: Enter your full name as per your official records. Provide your complete residential address, including the PIN code. Put in your phone number and email address for correspondence.
- Vehicle Information: Enter the vehicle registration number as stated in the original RC. Mention the make and model of the vehicle, along with the chassis and engine numbers. These details can be found on the original RC or vehicle invoice.
- Details of the Loss or Damage: Specify how the RC was lost, stolen, or damaged. If it was lost, provide the approximate date and location. For stolen RCs, attach a copy of the FIR.
- Financier’s Consent (if applicable): If the vehicle is financed, obtain the financier's approval and signature on the form. This section is mandatory for vehicles under loan.
- Declaration: Sign the form and mention the date in the designated section.
- Supporting Documents: Attach necessary documents like ID proof, a copy of the FIR (if applicable), and the original insurance papers.
How to Download Form 26?
Downloading RTO Form 26 is simple and can be done online through official transport portals. Here’s how you can download the form:
- Visit the Official Website: Navigate to the official Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) domain or the state transport department's site.
- Go to the Forms Section: Look for the "Forms" or "Downloads" section on the website.
- Search for Form 26: Find RTO Form 26 in the list of available forms. Forms are often categorised by their purpose.
- Download the Form: Click the link to download the PDF version of the form.
- Print the Form: Print the downloaded form on an A4-sized paper. Ensure the printout is clear and legible.
Things to Consider Before Applying for Duplicate RC Form
Before applying for a duplicate Registration Certificate, consider the following points:
- File an FIR: If your RC has been stolen, filing an FIR at the nearest police station is mandatory. Attach a copy of the FIR to your application.
- Clear Pending Dues: Ensure there are no pending fines or taxes on the vehicle. All dues must be cleared before submitting your application.
- Obtain Financier Approval: If your vehicle is financed, obtain written consent from the financier. This is a crucial step and cannot be skipped.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Prepare all necessary documents, such as:
- ID proof (e.g. Aadhaar, PAN card, etc.)
- Address proof (e.g. utility bills, rental agreement, etc.)
- Vehicle insurance papers
- FIR copy (if applicable)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Pay Application Fee: Pay the appropriate fee for the duplicate RC application. The fee varies by state, so check your RTO's official website for accurate details.
- Submit on Time: Submit the form and supporting documents promptly. Delays can result in additional fines or complications.
FAQs
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Is it possible to apply for a duplicate RC online?
Yes, some states offer online applications for duplicate RCs. Visit the official transport department website of your state to check for online services.
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What should I do if my vehicle is under loan?
If your vehicle is under loan, you must obtain written consent from the financier before submitting Form 26. This consent must be signed and stamped on the form.
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How long does it take to receive a duplicate RC?
The processing time depends on the RTO, but it typically takes 7-14 working days from the date of submission.
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What happens if I lose the duplicate RC?
If you lose the duplicate RC, you’ll need to repeat the process and submit a new Form 26.
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Is it mandatory to file an FIR for a lost RC?
Yes, filing an FIR is mandatory for a lost RC. The FIR serves as proof of loss and is a crucial requirement in the application process.
Conclusion
RTO Form 26 is a key document for obtaining a duplicate Registration Certificate. Whether your RC is lost, stolen, or damaged, this form allows you to secure a replacement quickly and legally. Ensure you fill out the form accurately, attach all necessary documents, and adhere to the RTO guidelines to avoid delays.
Additionally, it’s a good time to check your car insurance policy and ensure it is up to date, as a valid insurance certificate is often required during the application process. By understanding the steps to download and complete Form 26, you can navigate the process smoothly and get back on the road with minimal problems.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. 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.