Vehicle Registration Process in India
In this guide
Step-by-step Process
Temporary Registration (TR)
When you buy a new vehicle, the dealer registers it temporarily (TR) valid for 1 month. TR plate format: State code + TR + number (e.g., DL-TR-0001). During this period, apply for permanent registration. Do NOT drive beyond the TR period without permanent registration. Dealer usually handles permanent registration formalities.
Permanent Registration at RTO
Documents required: Form 20 (Application for registration), Invoice/sale certificate from dealer, Aadhaar/address proof, Insurance certificate (mandatory), PUC certificate, Road tax payment receipt (varies by state, 4–18% of vehicle cost), Form 60/61 (if no PAN). Most states now allow dealer-facilitated registration without owner visiting RTO.
Understanding RC (Registration Certificate)
RC contains: Registration number, owner name/address, vehicle details (make, model, colour, engine/chassis number), fuel type, insurance validity, PUC validity. RC validity: Non-transport: 15 years from date of registration, renewable every 5 years thereafter. Transport: 5–10 years. Digital RC on DigiLocker/mParivahan is legally valid.
Vehicle Fitness Certificate
After 15 years (private vehicles) or periodically (commercial), vehicle requires fitness certificate from authorized testing station. From 2023, automated fitness testing centers (ATS) are being established across India. Fitness test checks: Brakes, lights, emissions, speedometer, horn, overall condition. Commercial vehicles: Annual fitness test mandatory.
Official Government Portals
Common Questions
What is the HSRP (High Security Registration Plate) requirement?
All new vehicles since April 2019 come with HSRP fitted by manufacturer. For old vehicles (pre-2019): HSRP retrofitting is being made mandatory state by state. HSRP has a chromium hologram, laser-etched registration number, and snap-lock bolts that break if tampered. Book HSRP at bookmyhsrp.com or through your state RTO.
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