New Vehicle Registration Process in India: Step-by-Step Guide for Car & Bike Owners

Whenever anyone buys a new vehicle, the first thing they take care of is the insurance and registration of the car and bike. As per the Motor Vehicles Act, every motor vehicle needs to be registered with the respective RTO. Obtaining the registration number for a new vehicle is a straightforward process. If you are aware of the required forms and documents, the process is relatively simple. A new bike registration process is similar to that of a car. The following are the ways to do RTO registration.

In this blog, we will explore

• What is Vehicle Registration
• Documents required for New vehicle registration
• Steps to do Vehicle Registration at RTO
• Difference between Temporary and Permanent Registration
• Vehicle Registration Fees
• New Rules for Vehicle Number Plates in India

What is the Vehicle Registration Process?

Vehicle registration is the process of officially recording a motor vehicle with the relevant government authorities, specifically the Regional Transport Office (RTO).  Under this process, a unique registration number is assigned, and a license plate is issued, ensuring that the vehicle complies with legal, safety, and environmental standards. Vehicle registration is mandatory, as it facilitates tracking of ownership, ensures proper taxation, and promotes road safety by verifying that vehicles are insured and comply with local regulations. It is required before a vehicle can be legally driven. Whether you have purchased a new or second-hand vehicle, it is essential to register it as soon as possible.

Also Read: How to become a motor insurance advisor?

Key documents required for New vehicle registration

1. New vehicle registration application form (Form 20)
2. Temporary Registration Certificate (if applicable)
3. Pan Card or Form 60 (either one)
4. Vehicle sales certificate (Form 21)
5. Hypothecation details of the vehicle (Form 34) (to be submitted only if the vehicle is purchased via loan)
6. Roadworthiness certificate (Form 22)
7. Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC)
8. Insurance certificate
9. Passport Size Photograph
10. Address Proof of Vehicle Owner
11. Dealer and Manufacturer Invoice
12. Date of Birth Proof
13. Pencil sketch of your vehicle’s engine and chassis number.

Steps to do Vehicle Registration at RTO

Step 1: Visit your nearest RTO with your new vehicle.

Step 2: Submit the duly filled application forms along with attaching all required documents.

Step 3: The RTO official will do the verification.

Step 4: Pay the registration fees and road tax at the fee collection counter and get the acknowledgement receipt.

Step 5: The RTO inspector (Inspector of Motor Vehicles) will do an inspection of the new vehicle.

Step 6: The vehicle data (make/model, fuel type, emission standard, seating capacity, engine capacity, etc.) is uploaded to the central database.

Step 7: After verifying the uploaded vehicle data, the RTO Superintendent will provide approval.

Step 8: The ARTO (Assistant Regional Transport Officer) will approve the vehicle registration.

Step 9: Post approval, the RTO will generate the RC (Registration Certificate) smartcard for the vehicle owner.

Step 10: Once the RC is ready, the RTO will dispatch it to the registered address via post.

Difference between Temporary and Permanent Registration

Also Read: What is RTO and DTO, and the difference between them?

New Vehicle Registration Fees

New Rules for Vehicle Number Plates in India

• The temporary registration number comes with a yellow background and red lettering.
• All the dealer vehicle number plates will display on a red background with white lettering.
• Ban on using regional languages in number plates.
• The BS-VI vehicle (four-wheelers) number plates are mandated to have a 1 cm green colour layer
• Driving a new vehicle with a paper-printed registration number plate is an offence.
• The BS-VI vehicle (four-wheeler) number plates should also have stickers attached to the green layer.
• Diesel vehicles should display an orange sticker, and cars running on petrol/CNG should display a blue sticker.

Also Read: What are High Security Registration Plates (HSRP)?

Bottom Line

The new vehicle registration process may seem lengthy, but it plays a crucial role in ensuring your vehicle is road-legal and compliant with government rules. With digital platforms like Parivahan, the steps have become more streamlined and customer-friendly. If you’re planning to buy a new car or bike, keep this guide handy to complete your registration smoothly and enjoy a hassle-free driving experience.