What is an RC and Why is it Important for Your Two-Wheeler?

19 Feb 2019

You have just purchased your dream two-wheeler. It's sleek and it's the vehicle of your dreams. You can't wait to zoom through the streets to see how it runs. However, before you start the engine, you need to ensure that you have your bike RC book in place. The RC – or the registration card – is the official document that ensures your bike has been registered with the Regional Transport Office (RTO).

RC books is in reality a smartcard that has the vehicle details such as

• Registration date and number of the two-wheeler
• Engine number
• Chassis number
• Two-wheeler colour
• Two-wheeler model number
• Two-wheeler fuel type
• The manufacturing date of the vehicle
• In addition, the RC also hold information such as your name and address.

How do you get a two-wheeler RC book?

Acquiring a two-wheeler registration certificate is an easy process. You need to approach your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO). The officials will inspect your vehicle and issue the two-wheeler RC. Alternatively, you can also ask your dealer from where you have purchased your vehicle to get the registration done on your behalf. In this case, the vehicle will only be delivered after the RC is in place.

RCs have a 15-year validity and can be renewed after every five years.

In case you lose your RC

It is illegal to ride your two-wheeler without the RC. In case it is lost, and you are caught driving, then chances are that you will be booked. In case of a stolen or misplaced RC, the best thing to do is approach your nearest police station (in case the RC is stolen), following which you approach your local RTO to initiate the process of duplicating the RC. You will be required the following documents along with Form 26

• Photocopy of original RC
• Tax payment receipts and tax token
• Copy of your two-wheeler insurance
• NOC from the bank (in case you have purchased the vehicle on loan)
• PUC certificate
• Address proof
• Identity proof
• Passport-sized photographs

Once the documents are submitted, you will be required to pay Rs 300, following which you will receive an acknowledgement slip. This slip will have the date by which you will receive the hardcopy of the duplicate RC book at your address.

Transferring two-wheeler RC online

In case you move to a different state, you need to transfer your two-wheeler RC. This is a straightforward process that will need the following documents:

• NOC from your current RTO
• Arrange to transport your two-wheeler to the new state
• Apply for two-wheeler registration in the new state
• Make payment and road tax (each state has a different road tax)

So, remember, your RC is an important part of your two-wheeler journey. Having it is mandatory and ensures that your journey is safe.

Disclaimer: For more details on risk factors, terms & conditions please read sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale. *The discount amount will vary subject to vehicle specification and place of registration.