Transfer of Vehicle Registration from One State to Another – Complete Guide for Car Owners

If you are moving to another state or selling your used car to someone in a different state, it is essential to complete the transfer of vehicle registration from one state to another. This process ensures that car ownership is updated either to the new state in case of relocation, or to the new owner in case of a sale. Failing to comply with the transfer of ownership and the applicable RTO transfer charges may result in penalties. In some cases, if the car you sold is still registered in your name and is involved in an accident or even a criminal offence, you could be held legally liable.

Every state’s transport department has its own rules and regulations, so RC transfer fees and requirements can vary depending on the states involved. While the core process is similar across India, small variations in documents, costs, and timelines are common.

In this guide, we will walk you through the complete step-by-step process, explain the documents required, and break down the costs, including No Objection Certificate (NOC) and Non-Migration Certificate (NMC), so that you can carry out the transfer smoothly and avoid unnecessary complications.

Why Transfer of Vehicle Registration is Important

When you relocate to another state or sell your vehicle across state borders, the transfer of vehicle registration from one state to another is not just a formality but a legal requirement under the Motor Vehicles Act. This ensures that the new owner or the new state’s RTO officially records the change in ownership and location.

Skipping this process can result in fines, disputes over RTO transfer charges, and even legal trouble if the vehicle is involved in traffic violations or criminal cases. Additionally, without proper registration transfer, the vehicle cannot be legally re-registered in the new state, which may prevent you from renewing road tax or getting valid insurance coverage.

Understanding the importance of this process will help you appreciate why each step, from getting the NOC to paying the RC transfer fees, is essential before you can drive or sell your vehicle in another state.

Documents Required for the Transfer of Vehicle Registration from One State to Another

The following table lists the necessary documents required to initiate the process of transferring car registration from one state to another.

Procedures for Transferring Vehicle Ownership

Various scenarios and the protocols required to transfer car ownership are listed below:

Procedure to Transfer Car Ownership Within the Same State

If you are selling your car to someone in the same state, you must follow these steps:

• Two essential forms - Form 29 (Notice of Transfer of Ownership of a Motor Vehicle) and Form 30 (Application for Intimation and Transfer of Ownership of a Motor Vehicle) must be procured. You can either download these online or collect them from the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
• Fill out both forms. Ensure that all the details about the buyer and seller are accurate. It is required to fill out two copies of Form 29.
• Signature of both parties, i.e. the buyer and the seller, are required on both forms 29 and 30.
• Hand over your vehicle to the RTO for a physical inspection along with the following documents:
  - Form 29 (two copies)
  - Form 30
  - Original Registration Certificate (RC)
  - Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
  - Valid insurance certificate 
  - Buyer’s proof of address
  - Buyer’s passport-size photographs 
• Pay the applicable transfer fee and road tax.

Once you have completed the aforementioned steps, the RTO will issue a new RC in the buyer’s name once all the documents are successfully processed.

How much does it cost?

Apart from the road tax, the costs involved in transferring car ownership within the same state include a transfer fee, a smart card fee, and a postal fee. The transfer fee within the same state is usually ₹300, but it may vary from state to state.

Procedure to Transfer Car Ownership Across Different States

If you are selling your car to someone in a different state, the following steps must be followed:

• Fill out Form 28 and submit it to the vehicle’s original RTO to apply for a No Objection Certificate (NOC)
• If you have a car loan on your vehicle, you will also need a NOC from the issuing bank. This NOC needs to be submitted to the RTO along with Form 28
• Obtain all clearance certificates from the police and National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) to make sure no illegal activities are associated with the vehicle
• Move the vehicle to its new state

Apply for a New Registration by Submitting the Following Documents to the New State’s RTO:

• Form 29 (two copies)
• Form 30
• Original RC
• NOC that was obtained from the original RTO
• PUC certificate
• Valid insurance certificate
• Buyer’s address proof
• Buyer’s passport-sized photographs
• Hand over your vehicle for an inspection at the new state’s RTO
• Pay the applicable transfer fee and road tax

Once all the documents are successfully processed by the new RTO, a new RC will be issued in the buyer’s name.

Cost of Inter-State Transfer of Car Ownership

Depending on the ex-showroom price of the car, road taxes vary from state to state. You might also incur some additional expenses depending on which state the vehicle is registered in. For eg. the following table gives a breakdown of the costs involved in transferring vehicle registration across different Indian states and any additional costs that might be levied by specific states.

Car Owner Transfer Costs In Different States

Additional Costs Involved in Car Ownership Transfer In Different States

Procedure to Transfer Car Ownership of a Deceased Person’s Car 

To transfer car ownership of a person who has passed away, follow the steps given below:

• The deceased person's death certificate will be required
• Next, to establish yourself as the rightful heir to the vehicle, obtain a legal heir certificate from a local municipal authority
• Write an affidavit that acknowledges you as the legal heir and declares the transfer of ownership of the vehicle
• Fill out Form 31 (Application for Transfer of Ownership in the Name of the Person Succeeding to the Possession of the Vehicle) with the correct details of the deceased owner and the legal heir of the car. You can download this form online or collect it from the RTO

Submit the Following Documents to the RTO:

• Form 31
• Original RC
• Death certificate
• Legal heir certificate
• Valid insurance certificate
• PUC certificate
• Legal heir’s proof of address
• Legal heir’s passport-sized photographs
• Pay the applicable transfer fee, which is usually ₹300, but may vary from state to state
• A new RC will be issued in the legal heir’s name once all the documents are successfully processed by the RTO

Procedure to Transfer Ownership of a Vehicle Purchased in Public Auction

To transfer ownership of a car purchased in an auction, follow the steps given below:

• Contact the auctioning authority and get the auction certificate 
• Fill out Form 32 (Application for Transfer of Ownership in the Name of the Person Purchasing the Vehicle in a Public Auction) with the correct details of the auction and the buyer. You can download this form online or collect it from the RTO.
• Submit the following documents to the RTO:
• Form 32
• Original RC
• Death certificate
• Legal heir certificate
• Valid insurance certificate
• PUC certificate
• Buyer’s proof of address
• Buyer’s passport-sized photographs
• Hand over your vehicle for an inspection at the RTO
• Pay the applicable transfer fee. The fee is usually ₹300 but varies from state to state

The final documents are then processed by the new RTO and a new RC is issued in the buyer’s name.

How Much Time Does the RC Transfer Process Take?

It takes around 60 to 90 working days for the entire RC transfer process to be completed. This turnaround time can vary depending on the completeness and accuracy of the documents provided, efficiency of the local RTO, public holidays and a few other factors like backlog and need for additional verifications.

How to Check RC Transfer Status?

A step-by-step guide to check your RC transfer status is given below:

1. Visit the official website Parivahan Sewa.
2. Go to ‘Online Services’ and select ‘Vehicle-related Services.”
3. Use the dropdown menus to select your state and RTO.
4. Click on the link option that says ‘Know your application status’.
5. Enter your application number and any other information that is asked. 
6. Once you submit this, you will be able to see the current updated status of your RC transfer.

Important Points to Remember When Transferring Your Car Registration

Now that you are aware of the processes to transfer car ownership, here are a few vital points to keep in mind:

Remember that Taxes and Formalities Differ from State to State

Different states in India have different tax structures and formalities that need to be complied with for a successful car ownership transfer. These may include green tax, motor tax, or any other specific local tax. For example, in Delhi, additional municipal corporation parking charges may apply on your vehicle. Make sure you are fully familiar with the specific taxes and protocols of the new state. You can check all the information here. Ensure road tax compliance.
Road tax also varies from state to state based on the rules and regulations of that state. Check out the road tax requirements here to ensure complete compliance. 

Important tips for a smooth transfer of vehicle registration from one state to another

When you plan the transfer of vehicle registration from one state to another, a few extra steps can save you time, money, and stress. Keep these points in mind to ensure the process goes smoothly:

1. Retain your registration number (if possible): In some cases, you may be able to keep your original registration number, depending on its availability and the RTO’s decision. Contact the RTO in advance to understand the rules, procedures, and any applicable charges for retaining your preferred number.

2. Stick to the given timelines: Complete all steps of the transfer process within the stipulated period. This includes submitting accurate documents, paying applicable fees, and completing any additional verification. Delays can lead to legal complications, extra costs, or even rejection of your application.

3. Maintain regular contact with the RTO: Stay in touch with the RTO in both your current and new state. They can provide the most accurate, up-to-date information, answer your queries, and guide you through any state-specific requirements.

4. Update insurance and road tax records: Once the transfer is complete, update your vehicle’s insurance policy with the new registration details. Inform your insurance provider and obtain an updated certificate. Also, ensure that your road tax records reflect the new state registration.

5. Be mindful of your NOC validity: The No Objection Certificate (NOC) issued by your current state’s RTO is usually valid for three to six months, depending on the state. Ensure your transfer and new registration are completed within this period. If the NOC expires, you will need to apply for a fresh one.

By following these steps carefully, the car ownership transfer process becomes much simpler and avoids unnecessary delays or penalties.

CARS24 RTO Services

RC transfer and the transfer of vehicle registration from one state to another can be a stressful and frustrating experience. If you are asked for a party peshi, you may have a challenging day ahead of you. Party peshi is a process in which the transport department verifies that you are legally authorised to sell your car. For a party peshi, you must report to the RTO with all related documents and forms. Long queues and slow processing can turn this into an exhausting exercise.

CARS24 provides professional, end-to-end RC transfer services that remove the stress you are likely to face during the process. We manage your paperwork, track your appointment dates, and even offer at-home assistance whenever possible. While other agents charge almost ₹7,000 for just the paperwork, you can access our complete vehicle registration transfer services for as low as ₹3,000.

Conclusion

Completing the transfer of vehicle registration from one state to another in India is more than just a formality but a legal requirement that ensures a smooth ownership transition and shields you from future liabilities. Whether you are relocating to a new state or selling your car across state borders, knowing the RC transfer process, applicable RTO transfer charges, essential documents, and state-specific road tax rules will make the experience hassle-free. Timely submission of forms, securing a valid No Objection Certificate (NOC), and updating your motor insurance are crucial to avoid delays and penalties. For a quick and stress-free ownership transfer, professional services like CARS24 can manage the entire process, from paperwork to RTO coordination, saving you time, effort, and unexpected costs.