How to Check Vehicle RC Status Online – A Complete Guide

Owning a vehicle comes with multiple responsibilities, and one of the most important aspects is keeping track of your Registration Certificate (RC). The RC serves as legal proof of vehicle registration and is a crucial document for every vehicle owner.

In this digital era, the Government of India has simplified the process of checking the vehicle RC status online. Whether you need to verify the status of a new vehicle registration, track an RC transfer, or check the , this guide provides a step-by-step breakdown.

Why Checking Vehicle RC Status Online is Important

1. Avoid Legal Penalties

Driving a vehicle without a valid RC can lead to hefty fines and legal action. Checking the RC status ensures your vehicle is legally registered.

2. Track RC Application Status

If you have applied for a new vehicle registration, a duplicate RC, or a transfer of ownership, tracking the status online helps you stay updated.

3. Verify Ownership Before Buying a Used Vehicle

When purchasing a second-hand vehicle, checking the RC details online confirms the authenticity of the seller’s ownership claims.

4. Ensure Loan Clearance & Hypothecation Removal

If you bought a vehicle through a loan, the RC will show hypothecation details. Checking RC status ensures the bank’s lien is removed after loan repayment.

5. Confirm Vehicle Insurance & PUC Validity

Some online portals display additional details like vehicle insurance status and Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate validity, helping you stay compliant.

Methods to Check Vehicle RC Status Online

There are multiple ways to check vehicle RC details online, and here are the top methods:

1. Checking RC Status via VAHAN Portal

The VAHAN e-Services Portal, managed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), is the most popular platform for checking RC details.

Steps to Check RC Status on VAHAN:

1. Visit the VAHAN e-Services website: vahan.parivahan.gov.in
2. Click on “Know Your Vehicle Details”.
3. Enter your Vehicle Registration Number.
4. Fill in the Captcha Code and click Search Vehicle.
5. The portal will display key details such as:
   • Owner’s Name
   • Registration Date
   • RC Validity
   • Insurance Status
   • Pollution Under Control (PUC) Details
   • Hypothecation Details (If applicable)

2. Checking RC Status via mParivahan App

The mParivahan app, developed by MoRTH, allows users to check vehicle details from their smartphones.

Steps to Check RC Status on mParivahan:

1. Download the mParivahan App from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Open the app and select RC Search.
3. Enter your Vehicle Registration Number.
4. Click Search.
5. The app will display vehicle registration details instantly.

3. Checking RC Status via State RTO Websites

Different State RTOs (Regional Transport Offices) have their own portals where vehicle owners can check their RC status.

Steps to Check RC Status on State RTO Websites:

1. Visit your State RTO’s Official Website.
2. Look for the Vehicle Registration Status or RC Status section.
3. Enter your Vehicle Registration Number.
4. Click Submit to view your vehicle details.

4. Checking RC Status via SMS

For users who do not have internet access, an SMS-based service allows checking of RC details.

Steps to Check RC Status via SMS:

1. Open the Messaging App on your phone.
2. Type: VAHAN Vehicle Registration Number.
3. Send the SMS to 7738299899.
4. You will receive an SMS with the vehicle’s registration details.

5. Contacting the RTO Office for RC Status

If the online methods are inaccessible, you can visit your nearest RTO office with the following documents:

• Vehicle Registration Number
• Aadhar Card or Identity Proof
• Valid Insurance Certificate
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate

What to Do If Your RC is Expired?

If your RC is expired, follow these steps to renew it:

1. Apply for RC Renewal

Documents Required for RC Renewal:

• Original RC Copy
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate
• Vehicle Insurance Certificate
• Road Tax Payment Receipt
• Fitness Certificate (for commercial vehicles)

2. Apply for a Duplicate RC

If you lost your RC, you can apply for a duplicate RC through VAHAN or State RTO Websites.

3. Transfer of Ownership

For second-hand vehicles, apply for an RC transfer to update the legal ownership.

How to Ensure Your RC Details Are Updated?

1. Keep Your Insurance and PUC Valid – Renew your insurance and PUC certificate on time.
2. Update Address or Contact Details – If you change your residence, update your RC.
3. Check Hypothecation Status – If your vehicle was financed, ensure that hypothecation is removed after loan repayment.
4. Verify RC Details Regularly – Regularly check your RC status online to avoid penalties.

Conclusion

Checking vehicle RC status online is fast, simple, and essential for all vehicle owners. Whether you use VAHAN, mParivahan, or State RTO websites, knowing your vehicle details helps you stay compliant, avoid fines, and ensure seamless ownership transfer.

Regularly verifying your RC validity helps in maintaining legal status, confirming ownership, and ensuring a smooth buying or selling process for vehicles.