Car Registration India: Rules, Documents, and What You Need to Know

When you buy a new car in India, car registration, the legal process of recording your vehicle with the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Also known as vehicle registration, it’s not optional—it’s the law. Without it, you can’t legally drive on Indian roads, even if you just paid cash for the car. Every state follows the Motor Vehicles Act, but the steps, fees, and documents can vary slightly. The RTO is the government body that handles this, and each district has its own office. You’ll need proof of purchase, insurance, address proof, and a pollution certificate before they’ll issue your registration number.

Many people think registration is just about getting plates, but it’s more than that. Your registration number links to your vehicle’s engine number, chassis number, and owner details in a national database. This helps track theft, accidents, and taxes. If you move states, you must re-register your car, which means paying new road tax and getting a new number. Some states charge high road tax—Gujarat and Maharashtra can add 10-15% of the car’s cost. That’s why buyers in Delhi or Bangalore often compare taxes before choosing where to register.

Documents like the Form 20 application, Form 21 (sale certificate), and Form 22 (roadworthiness certificate) are standard. If you bought the car from a dealer, they usually handle most of this. But if you bought it privately, you’re on the hook. You’ll also need a valid driving license, the legal permit to operate a motor vehicle in India. Also known as license to drive, it’s checked during registration and traffic stops. And don’t forget insurance—third-party liability is mandatory. Without it, your registration will be rejected. The whole process takes 7 to 15 days if everything’s in order. Delays happen when paperwork is wrong or incomplete. A missing signature, expired address proof, or mismatched engine number can send you back to square one.

Some people try to skip registration or use temporary tags too long. That’s risky. Police can seize your car, fine you up to ₹5,000, or even cancel your license. Used car buyers often get stuck with unregistered vehicles because the previous owner didn’t transfer ownership. Always check the RC book before paying. Look for the owner name, engine number, and whether the tax is paid. If it’s expired, you’ll pay penalties on top of the registration fee.

Below, you’ll find real stories and practical guides on what happens after you register your car—how taxes change over time, why some states are easier than others, and how to handle transfers, renewals, and even selling your vehicle legally. No fluff. Just what you need to avoid fines, delays, and headaches.