Losing your vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC) can be inconvenient, but it does not mean you have to start the registration process again. The Motor Vehicles Act and Central Motor Vehicle Rules provide a specific process for obtaining a duplicate RC. You can apply through the VAHAN portal where the service is available, or approach the concerned registering authority.
Lost Your RC Book? Don’t Panic, Here’s What You Should Do Next
If you have misplaced or lost your RC, notify the police station that covers the location where it was lost. Also, inform the registering authority that issued the RC. Rule 53 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989 specifically requires the owner to report the loss or destruction to the police and intimate the registering authority.
What is a Duplicate RC Book
A duplicate RC is issued by the registering authority when the original Registration Certificate is lost, damaged, destroyed or cannot be used anymore. It serves as a replacement for the original document, while the vehicle keeps the same registration number and other existing registration details.
When and Why Would You Require a Duplicate RC
You need one in these situations:
- The original RC is lost or stolen
- The card is torn, faded, or the chip is damaged beyond reading
How to Apply for a Duplicate RC Online
If you are wondering how to apply for an RC book if lost, visit the Parivahan website and open the Vahan services page.
- Select ‘Vehicle Registration’ from the pop-up at the bottom left. Enter the vehicle registration number, then select the registered state and local RTO.
- Accept the ‘Terms and Conditions’ and click ‘Proceed’.
- On the next pop-up, click ‘Proceed’ to view the available online vehicle services.
- The Vahan Citizen Services page will open.
- Select ‘Basic Services’ at the top left. Choose ‘RC Related Services’ from the drop-down menu.
- Select ‘Apply for Duplicate RC’.
- The application form will open with the registration number pre-filled. Enter the last five digits of the chassis number and click ‘Verify Details’.
- The last four digits of the registered mobile number will be displayed. Click ‘Generate OTP’ to receive a one-time password on that number.
- Enter the OTP and click ‘Submit’. Select the reason for requesting the duplicate RC.
- If the RC was lost or stolen, enter the relevant FIR details. A police complaint should be filed before starting the online application in such cases.
- The applicable duplicate RC fee will be displayed on the same page. Proceed to the payment gateway and complete the payment.
- After payment, download or print Form 26 and the payment receipt.
- Upload the required documents. Once you submit all documents, the application is forwarded to the concerned RTO for processing.
How to Apply New RC Offline
If you are searching for how to get an RC book if lost, then simply visit the RTO office and submit Form 26 to the last registering authority. Carry the required supporting documents and the police report/certificate relating to the loss. Pay the applicable fee and complete any verification required by the registering authority.
Documents Required for Duplicate RC Online & Offline
Keep the following documents handy before applying for a duplicate RC:
- Form 26
- Police certificate/report in case of loss or theft
- Valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
- Valid insurance certificate
- Proof of address, where required
- PAN card or Form 60/61, where applicable
- Chassis and engine number pencil print, where required
- Owner's signature identification
- Affidavit stating that the RC was lost and has not been impounded
How to Check the Status of Your RC Application
Go back to the Parivahan Sewa portal and open the application status section. Enter your application number or vehicle registration number to see the current stage.
Conclusion
A lost RC does not require you to re-register the vehicle. Report the loss, inform the registering authority and apply for a duplicate RC through Form 26. Where available, VAHAN lets you start the process online, including document upload and fee payment. Keeping the duplicate RC handy can also make car insurance and other vehicle-related processes easier.
FAQs
1. Is filing an FIR mandatory?
Yes, for a lost or stolen RC. RTOs will not process the duplicate application without a valid FIR.
2. Can I drive without a physical RC while applying for a duplicate?
MoRTH has directed that RC information presented electronically through DigiLocker or mParivahan is legally recognised.
3. How long does it take to get a duplicate RC?
Processing time depends on the registering authority, State/UT procedures, document verification, whether an office visit is required, and whether the application has any pending issues.
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