Losing the RC (Registration Certificate) book of your vehicle can be a worrisome situation, leaving you unsure about the necessary steps to take. However, it's important to stay calm and follow the right procedures to address this issue. In this guide, we will provide you with valuable information on what to do when your RC book is lost, including the necessary actions to take and how to apply for a duplicate RC book.
What is a RC Book?
An RC (Registration Certificate) book, also known as a vehicle registration document, is an official legal document issued by the government or relevant transportation authorities to certify the registration of a motor vehicle. It serves as proof that the vehicle is registered under a particular individual or organization's name and contains essential information such as the vehicle's registration number, owner's details, engine and chassis numbers, date of registration, and other pertinent details. The RC book is crucial for establishing ownership and legality of a vehicle and is required for various purposes, including vehicle transfer, insurance, and law enforcement.
Moreover, the RC Book or the Registration Certificate book of a vehicle is one of the most important documents that has been made compulsory by the Government of India to be carried while driving a vehicle. This book indicates that your vehicle is authentically registered with the Regional Transport Office (RTO). This document stays valid for 15 years and needs to be renewed every five years. Nowadays, RC books are also available in the form of a Smart Card, making them easy to carry as well as long-lasting.
What Happens If Your Rc Book Gets Damaged Or Misplaced?
Discovering that your vehicle's RC (Registration Certificate) book is damaged or misplaced can initially be concerning, but fortunately, there are solutions available to address this issue. The RC book plays a vital role in validating the registration and ownership of your vehicle. By understanding the necessary procedures for obtaining a duplicate RC book, you can confidently overcome the challenges presented by a damaged or lost RC book.
- File an FIR: Report the loss or misplacement of your RC book at the nearest police station. Provide details about the incident and your vehicle, including owner's name, address, Chassis Number, Engine Number, model, color, and registration number. Attach self-signed copies of your ID proof, driving license, and address proof. You can lodge the FIR online or offline.
- Obtain a Challan: The police will issue a Challan for the lost RC book, and it is provided free of cost.
- Download and Fill Form 26: Visit the official RTO website and download Form 26. Fill it out with accurate information.
- Prepare an Affidavit: Create an affidavit on stamp paper, including all the vehicle details and the reason for applying for a duplicate RC book.
- Submit Documents: Submit three copies of Form 26 (one copy attested with endorsement from the financier, if applicable), the affidavit, and the necessary documents (listed below) to the superintendent at the RTO:
(1) FIR copy
(2) Self-signed ID proof, driving license, and address proof
(3) Vehicle insurance copy
(4) Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
(5) Original RC book (if available)
(6) NOC from the financier (if applicable)
(7) Document Verification: The officer or superintendent at the RTO will verify the submitted documents and provide their signature.
- ID Proof Verification: Visit the Assistant Regional Transport Office (ARTO) for ID proof verification and attestation.
- Payment: Pay the required fee for issuing the duplicate RC book, which is usually around Rs 500. Obtain a receipt for the payment.
- Superintendent Verification:- Return to the RTO superintendent with the payment receipt. They will verify and sign the receipt.
- Acknowledgement Slip: Receive an acknowledgement slip from the counter, indicating when you can collect your duplicate RC book.
By following these steps, you can successfully apply for and obtain a duplicate RC book for your vehicle. Remember to carry all the necessary documents and comply with the RTO's guidelines for a smooth process.
Documents You Need To Issue A Duplicate RC Book
These are the documents you need to issue a duplicate RC Book: - Form 26 – this is the application form - Copy of RC card lost challan (from the police station) - No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the bank if you have taken a loan - Copy of vehicle insurance - Emission test paper copy - Driving License copy - Age and address proofs - Passport-size photographs - Car purchase papers
The duplicate RC book is generally delivered within seven days of registering the complaint. You can also check the status of your RC book online on the official website parivahan.gov.in/rcdlstatus.
A word of caution! – Do not entertain agents who claim to help you obtain a duplicate RC book. The entire process itself costs around 500 Rupees, while these agents can charge service fees between 2000 – 3000 Rupees, especially if the consumer is ignorant. There is also the risk of getting a fake or duplicate RC book.
Difference Between Issuing A Duplicate RC Book & Renewal Of An RC Book
| Issuing a Duplicate RC Book | Renewal of an RC Book | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To obtain a replacement for a lost,damaged, or misplaced RC book. | To extend the validity period of the existing RC book after its expiration. |
| Scenario | When the original RC book is lost,stolen, damaged beyond usability, or stolen, damaged beyond usability. | When the existing RC book is about to expire or has already expired. |
| Validity Period | Same as the original RC book. | Extends the validity period of the existing RC book, typically for 5 years. |
| Fee | Involves payment of a fee, which varies depending on the RTO. | Requires payment of a renewal fee,typically determined by the RTO. |
| Process Time | Generally takes a few weeks to process and receive the duplicate RC book. | Typically completed within a few weeks once the necessary documents are submitted and processed by the RTO. |
It's important to note that specific procedures and requirements may vary slightly depending on the jurisdiction and regulations of the respective Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Conclusion
In addition to a lost or misplaced RC book, there can be other indications for issuing a duplicate RC book, which include incorrect particulars on the original RC book, the difference in the information on Vahan Check and original registration certificate, illegible Chassis number, etc.
Thus, if you ever lose or misplace your RC book, it is a simple, cheap, and hassle-free process once you know the exact procedure of obtaining a duplicate one. Read more: Functions and registration process at RTO
FAQ Questions
What to do if RC is lost?
If your RC (Registration Certificate) is lost, the first step is to file a police complaint regarding the loss. After filing the complaint, you should apply for a duplicate RC book. Contact your regional transport office (RTO) to inquire about the process and obtain the necessary forms. Submit the completed application along with the supporting documents to the RTO and pay the prescribed fee.
Can I drive my vehicle without the RC book?
It is illegal to drive a vehicle without the original RC book or its valid duplicate copy. You should always carry the necessary documents while operating a vehicle to avoid legal complications.
How long does it take to get a duplicate RC book?
The duration for obtaining a duplicate RC book may vary depending on the procedures followed by your regional transport office. It is advisable to check with the RTO for an estimated timeline.
Will I have to pay any penalties or fines for losing my RC book?
Losing your RC book may result in penalties or fines as per the regulations of your local transport authority. The exact amount may depend on the jurisdiction and the circumstances surrounding the loss. It is best to consult with the RTO or a legal professional to understand the specific penalties applicable in your case.
Can I use a copy of the RC book until I obtain a duplicate?
No, you should not use a photocopy or any other form of a duplicate document as a replacement for the original RC book. It is essential to follow the proper procedure to obtain a legally valid duplicate RC book.
Will I receive the same RC number on the duplicate RC book?
Yes, in most cases, the duplicate RC book will have the same registration number as the original one. The purpose of obtaining a duplicate RC book is to replace the lost or damaged document while keeping the vehicle's registration details unchanged.
Can someone else apply for the duplicate RC book on my behalf?
Generally, the registered owner of the vehicle or their authorized representative can apply for a duplicate RC book. The specific requirements and procedures for appointing an authorized representative may vary, so it is advisable to check with the local transport authority for the necessary guidelines.