A Comprehensive Guide How to Issue a Duplicate RC

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Registration Certificate (RC) of a vehicle is an essential document that serves as proof of ownership and legal compliance. Losing or damaging the original RC can be a cause of concern, but fear not. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to issue a duplicate RC, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.

Reporting the Loss or Damage

The first step in obtaining a duplicate RC is to report the loss or damage to the relevant authorities. File a First Information Report (FIR) at the nearest police station or online, depending on the guidelines set by your local law enforcement agency. Provide all the necessary details about the lost or damaged RC, including the vehicle’s registration number, chassis number, and engine number. Make sure to keep a copy of the FIR, as it will be required for further proceedings.

Gather Essential Documents

Once you have reported the loss or damage, gather the necessary documents required for obtaining a duplicate RC. These documents typically include the following

Application Form Obtain the prescribed application form from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) or download it from their official website.
Affidavit Prepare an affidavit stating the circumstances under which the original RC was lost or damaged. It should be duly notarized.
FIR Copy Attach a copy of the FIR registered at the police station.
Address Proof Provide a self-attested photocopy of any government-issued address proof, such as Aadhaar card, voter ID, or passport.
Identity Proof Attach a self-attested photocopy of your identity proof, such as PAN card, Aadhaar card, or driver’s license.

Visit the RTO

Once you have gathered all the required documents, visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO) where your vehicle is registered. Here’s what you need to do

Submit the Application Submit the completed application form along with the necessary documents at the RTO’s reception counter.
Pay the Fee Pay the prescribed fee for issuing a duplicate RC. The fee amount may vary depending on your location and the type of vehicle.
Verification and Processing After submitting the application and fee, your documents will be verified by the RTO authorities. Once the verification process is complete, your application will be processed.
Collect the Duplicate RC Once your application is approved, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt. The duplicate RC will be issued within the stipulated time frame, which may vary depending on the RTO’s workload.

Additional Considerations

Here are a few additional considerations to keep in mind during the duplicate RC issuance process

No Objection Certificate (NOC) If your vehicle has a loan or lease, obtain a No Objection Certificate from the financing institution or the concerned party.
Insurance and Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate If you have lost or damaged your original RC, it is advisable to inform your insurance provider and obtain a duplicate insurance certificate. Additionally, ensure that you have a valid PUC certificate to avoid any complications during the duplicate RC issuance process.
Timely Follow-up If there are any delays or issues with the duplicate RC issuance, make sure to follow up with the RTO authorities and seek updates on the progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between original and duplicate RC books?

Duplicate RC is a copy of the original RC given to a vehicle owner for a specific vehicle that has been registered with a Regional Transport Office (RTO). On reapplying, you can get a duplicate RC book or smart card.

What happens if RC is lost?

When a registration certificate of a vehicle is reported to be lost, mutilated, torn or used-up, a duplicate registration certificate is issued to the registered owner.

Conclusion

Losing or damaging your vehicle’s RC can be a daunting experience, but with the right information and proper documentation, obtaining a duplicate RC can be a straightforward process. By promptly reporting the loss, gathering the required documents, and visiting the RTO with the necessary paperwork, you can ensure a hassle-free experience and get back on the road with confidence.

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