Transport Services
Complete guide to driving license (learner & permanent), vehicle registration (RC), road tax, fitness certificate, pollution certificate, insurance, e-challan, FASTag, international driving permit, and RTO services across India.
Quick Actions
Common Use Cases
Document Types & Fees
Learner's License (LL)
Official SiteTemporary license valid 6 months to practice driving with L-board and licensed driver beside. Mandatory before permanent DL. Apply at 16 years (motorcycle without gear), 18 years (car, motorcycle with gear). Pass written test (road signs, rules). Pay ₹150-400 (state-dependent).
Permanent Driving License (DL)
Official SiteAuthorization to drive vehicles. Categories: MCWG (2-wheeler with gear), MCWOG (scooter/moped), LMV (light motor vehicle - car), HMV (heavy motor - truck/bus), Transport (commercial). Add endorsements later. Pass driving test after 30 days of LL. Valid 20 years or till age 50. Renewal every 5 years after 50.
Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
Official SiteLegal document proving vehicle ownership. Issued after vehicle purchase/registration at RTO. Contains: Owner name, chassis/engine number, registration number, vehicle class, fitness validity. Carry RC always while driving - mandatory (₹5,000 fine if not carried). Contains 15-digit registration number (state code-district-series-4digits).
Road Tax
Official SiteOne-time or periodic tax for using roads. Varies HUGELY by state (₹5,000-₹20,000 for car in different states!). Paid at the time of vehicle registration or annually/every 5 years. Online payment available on state transport website. Check pending tax on Parivahan or state RTO portal. Part of vehicle registration cost.
Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate
Official SiteCertificate proving vehicle meets emission standards. Mandatory for all vehicles. Get from authorized PUC centers (₹60-100). Valid 6 months for petrol vehicles, 3 months for diesel >7 years old. Carry always - ₹10,000 fine + RC seizure if not carried. Renewal at any PUC center in 10 minutes.
Vehicle Insurance
Official SiteMandatory third-party insurance minimum (₹1,500-₹3,000/year). Comprehensive insurance covers own damage too (₹5,000-₹25,000/year based on IDV). No insurance = ₹2,000 fine + 3 months jail. Renew before expiry (no lapse). Fifth-party property damage ₹7.5 lakh minimum coverage. Personal accident cover ₹15 lakh mandatory.
Fitness Certificate
Official SiteCertificate that vehicle is roadworthy. Mandatory for commercial vehicles (taxi, trucks, buses) and personal vehicles >15 years. Get from authorized testing centers at RTO. Includes brakes, lights, horn, steering, tyres check. Without fitness cert: ₹5,000 fine + vehicle seizure. Valid 1 year (commercial), 5 years (old personal).
FASTag
Official SiteRFID-based toll collection. Recharges at toll plazas automatically via linked bank/wallet. Mandatory for all vehicles from 2021. Affixed on windshield. Buy from banks (SBI, HDFC, Paytm, PhonePe etc.) online/offline. Minimum ₹100-200 balance. Double toll if FASTag not working. Portable across vehicle change (de-link and re-link).
International Driving Permit (IDP)
Official SitePermit to drive in foreign countries (1949 Geneva Convention countries - 180+ countries). Valid ONLY with Indian DL. Apply at RTO with DL, passport, visa/ticket proof. Issued in 1-3 days. Valid 1 year from issue or DL expiry (whichever earlier). Carry both IDP + Indian DL abroad. Some countries don't need IDP (check embassy website).
Duplicate DL/RC
Official SiteReplacement for lost/damaged driving license or RC. Apply online on Parivahan portal with FIR copy (if lost), damaged original (if damaged), affidavit. Fee ₹200-500. Issued within 7-15 days. OR visit RTO with documents. Smart card/physical card sent via post. Meanwhile, download DigiLocker for digital DL/RC (valid everywhere).
Fancy/VIP Number
Official SiteChoice registration number through RTO e-auction (e.g., 0001, 1111, 9999, 0786, etc.). Bid online on state transport website during auction dates. Starting bid ₹5,000, can go to lakhs! After winning auction, complete vehicle registration with chosen number. Non-transferable (stays with vehicle). Status symbol but expensive.
No Objection Certificate (NOC)
Official SiteCertificate from original RTO allowing vehicle transfer to another state. Required when moving permanently to another state OR selling vehicle to buyer in different state. Apply at RTO with RC, insurance, PUC, tax paid proof. Issued in 7-30 days. Valid 6 months. New state RTO re-registers vehicle, issues new RC with new state registration number.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Apply for Learner's License Online
Visit parivahan.gov.in → Select your state → "Apply for Learner License" → New Registration (create login with email/mobile) → Fill Form 1 (personal details, address, vehicle type) → Upload documents (age proof, address proof, photo, Aadhaar) → Pay fees online (₹150-400) → Submit → Note application number.
Book Slot for LL Test
After online submission (usually next day) → Login to portal → "Book Slot for LL Test" → Select RTO, date, time convenient to you → Confirm booking → Download appointment letter → Take printout.
Attend LL Test at RTO
Visit RTO on scheduled date/time → Carry: appointment letter, original documents, Aadhaar → Biometric verification → Written test (20 MCQ on computer about traffic signs, rules) → Pass mark: 60% (12/20 correct) → Result instant on screen → If pass: LL issued same day (smart card in 7-15 days, temporary slip immediately). If fail: Re-book test after 7 days.
Practice Driving with L-Board (Minimum 30 Days)
Must wait minimum 30 days after LL issue before DL test. Practice driving with: L-board (learner board) displayed front & back of vehicle. Licensed driver (with permanent DL) sitting beside. No solo driving with LL - ₹5,000 fine + 3 years jail if caught! Practice: Parking, gears, signals, road rules. Consider driving school (recommended, ₹2,000-5,000 for 15-30 days training).
Apply for Permanent DL Online
After 30 days of LL → Login to Parivahan portal → "Apply for Driving License" → Select "Fresh DL" → Fill Form 2 → Upload: LL copy, photo → Pay fees (₹200-1,000 varies by state) → Submit → Book slot for driving test.
Attend Driving Test at RTO
Visit RTO on test date → Carry LL, appointment letter, Aadhaar → Biometric verification → Driving test on track: 1) Start vehicle, 2) Drive forward in straight line, 3) Reverse, 4) Figure-8, 5) Slope test (uphill start without rollback), 6) Parallel parking. Test duration 10-15 minutes. RTO officer observes. Pass/Fail announced immediately.
Receive Permanent Driving License
If pass: DL application approved. Smart card DL dispatched via Speed Post (15-30 days to home address). Temporary DL receipt given immediately (valid till smart card arrives). Download digital DL from DigiLocker/mParivahan app (valid everywhere). If fail: Re-apply after 7 days (no limit on attempts, pay test fees again).
For Vehicle Registration (New Purchase)
Buy vehicle → Dealer helps with registration OR DIY: Visit RTO within 7 days → Submit Form 20, 21, invoice, insurance, ID proofs, address proof → Pay road tax + registration fees (₹600-₹2,000+) → Vehicle inspection (engine/chassis number verification) → Temporary registration issued (valid 1 month) → Permanent RC with registration number issued in 7-30 days → Number plate affixed.
Important Notes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Frequently Asked Questions
How to apply for driving license online? Complete step-by-step process.
STEP 1 - LEARNER LICENSE: Visit parivahan.gov.in → State → "Apply Learner License" → Register → Fill Form 1 (personal, address, vehicle type) → Upload age proof + address proof + photo + Aadhaar → Pay ₹150-400 → Submit → Book slot for LL test → Visit RTO on date → Computer test (20 MCQ, 60% pass) → LL issued same day. STEP 2 - PERMANENT LICENSE: Wait 30 days → Login portal → "Apply Driving License" → Fill Form 2 → Upload LL + photo → Pay ₹200-1000 → Book slot → Visit RTO → Driving test (parking, forward, reverse, slope) → Pass → DL issued (smart card in 15-30 days, download from DigiLocker in 2 days). Practice driving between LL and DL test with L-board + licensed person beside.
What is minimum age for driving license? Can I apply at 17?
MINIMUM AGE: 16 years: MCWOG (motorcycle without gear - scooter, moped). 18 years: MCWG (motorcycle with gear - bikes), LMV (light motor vehicle - car, jeep, van). 20 years: Transport vehicle (commercial - taxi, bus, truck - needs special training + PSV badge). Example: If you're 17: Can get scooter license, but NOT bike with gear or car. At 17 years 11 months: Apply for LL (takes 2 months process) so by 18 get car license. IMPORTANT: Age calculated as on date of LL application, not DL. So if 17 years 10 months, wait 2 months, turn 18, then apply.
Can I download driving license online? Is digital DL valid?
YES, 100% legal and valid everywhere! TWO METHODS: Method 1 - DIGILOCKER: Download DigiLocker app → Register with Aadhaar + mobile → Go to "Issued Documents" → Driving License appears automatically (pulls from Parivahan) → Download PDF → Show on phone or print. Method 2 - mPARIVAHAN APP: Download mParivahan app (official govt app) → Register → Add DL/RC → Display QR code → Cops scan QR to verify. VALIDITY: Supreme Court ruled digital DL = physical DL. Accepted by police, hotels, airports, car rentals. Smart card physical DL optional! Also download RC (Registration Certificate) same way. UPDATE: Usually 1-2 days after DL issue, appears in DigiLocker. Till then carry temporary slip from RTO.
Learner license vs Permanent license - what's difference? Can I drive with LL?
LEARNER LICENSE (LL): Valid 6 months. For learning/practicing ONLY. RESTRICTIONS: 1) Must display L-board (learner board) front & back prominently. 2) Licensed driver (holding permanent DL for that vehicle) must sit beside you. 3) Cannot drive alone/solo - ₹5,000 fine + 3 years jail if caught! 4) Cannot drive on highways/busy roads (some states). 5) No pillion rider on bike. PERMANENT LICENSE (DL): Valid 20 years. Drive independently without restrictions. Solo driving allowed. Can drive anywhere. Can carry passengers. PROCESS: Get LL → Wait minimum 30 days → Practice driving with L-board + licensed person → Give driving test at RTO → Pass → Get permanent DL. LL is prerequisite for DL, cannot directly get permanent without LL.
How long does driving license take? When will I receive DL card?
TIMELINE (typically): Learner License: Apply online → 1-2 days processing → Book test slot (2-15 days wait depending on rush) → Give test → LL issued SAME DAY (temporary slip immediately, smart card in 7-15 days). Permanent DL: Wait 30 days minimum after LL → Apply online → 1-2 days processing → Book driving test slot (2-15 days) → Give driving test → If pass, temporary DL slip same day → Smart card DL in 15-30 days (via Speed Post to address). TOTAL TIME: 45-90 days from start to permanent DL in hand. FAST TRACK: DigiLocker DL available in 1-2 days after test pass (don't wait for physical card!). DELAY REASONS: Slot unavailability (more during summer), RTO backlog, postal delay, address issue. Track status on Parivahan portal with application number.
Lost my driving license. How to apply for duplicate? Do I need to give test again?
NO TEST NEEDED! Duplicate = exact copy of original. PROCESS ONLINE: Visit parivahan.gov.in → State → "Apply for Duplicate DL" → Login → Fill form → Upload: FIR copy (if lost), damaged DL photo (if damaged), affidavit (stating "lost in transport/theft, no misuse") → Pay ₹200-500 → Submit → Download duplicate from DigiLocker in 1-2 days → Physical card in 15-30 days via post. PROCESS OFFLINE: Visit RTO → Fill application form → Attach FIR + affidavit + ID proof → Pay fees → Biometric verification → Collect receipt → DL mailed in 15 days. IMMEDIATE SOLUTION: Download EXISTING DL from DigiLocker if already issued (pulls from RTO database). No need to apply duplicate if DigiLocker has it! Takes 5 minutes. FIR mandatory? Some RTOs yes, some accept affidavit only. Check state RTO website. COST: ₹200-500 (state-dependent).
I have 2-wheeler license. How to add car (LMV) to existing DL?
Adding new vehicle class = "Endorsement" to existing DL. NO NEW DL, same card, additional category added. PROCESS: Login to Parivahan → "Add Vehicle Class to DL" → Select LMV (Light Motor Vehicle) → Upload: Current DL copy, photo → Pay fees (₹200-600) → Book slot for LMV driving test → Visit RTO → Give car driving test (same as fresh DL test but only for car) → Pass → LMV added to your existing DL → Updated DL issued/mailed. No need to apply learner license again! Directly give permanent DL test for new category. TIMELINE: 7-15 days from test pass to updated DL. DigiLocker updates in 1-2 days. COST: ₹200-600 test + endorsement fees. REVERSE POSSIBLE: Have car DL, want bike? Same process - add MCWG. Can add unlimited categories to one DL!
Driving test - what happens? How to pass in first attempt?
DRIVING TEST FORMAT (typically): 1) VEHICLE INSPECTION: Check if vehicle in working condition (brakes, lights, horn, mirrors - RTO or your vehicle). 2) START: Sit in driver seat → Adjust seat/mirrors → Seatbelt → Start engine (clutch + neutral for manual). 3) DRIVE FORWARD: Straight line drive 20-50 meters maintaining lane. 4) PARKING: Parallel parking between cones/lines (toughest part!). 5) REVERSE: Reverse straight 15-20 meters (use mirrors). 6) FIGURE-8/S-CURVE: Drive in figure-8 pattern without crossing lines. 7) SLOPE TEST: Stop on slope → Restart without rolling back (use handbrake technique). 8) SIGNALS: Proper use of indicators at turns. DURATION: 10-15 minutes. OFFICER observes: control, confidence, traffic rules, smoothness. PASS CRITERIA: No major mistakes (vehicle stall okay, but not repeatedly). TIPS: Go SLOW (speed doesn't matter), don't panic, practice parking extensively, use handbrake on slopes, signal properly. FAIL? Re-book test after 7 days, unlimited attempts.
What is validity of driving license? When to renew?
VALIDITY RULES: Issued BEFORE age 50: Valid for 20 years from issue date OR till you turn 50 (whichever is earlier). Example: DL issued at age 25 → Valid till age 45 (20 years). DL issued at age 40 → Valid till age 50 (only 10 years, NOT 20). After age 50: Renewable every 5 years with medical certificate. Example: Renew at 50, 55, 60, 65... RENEWAL: Can renew up to 1 year before expiry OR up to 5 years after expiry (late fee applicable). Process: Online on Parivahan OR visit RTO → Fill renewal form → Upload: Old DL, medical certificate (if 50+), photo → Pay fees ₹200 → Submit → New DL issued. IMPORTANT: NO GRACE PERIOD after expiry! Even 1 day expired = invalid = ₹5,000 fine if caught driving. Renew 1 month before expiry. Check expiry date: On DL card (NT - Non-Transport, TR - Transport validity dates) or DigiLocker or Parivahan portal.
How to check and pay traffic challan online? Will I know if I got challan?
E-CHALLAN = Electronic traffic fine for violations detected by cameras (speed, signal jump, no helmet, wrong lane, no seatbelt) OR manual challan by traffic police. CHECK CHALLAN: Visit echallan.parivahan.gov.in → "Check Challan Status" → Enter vehicle number OR DL number → See all pending challans (amount, date, violation, photo proof). PAY ONLINE: Same website → Select challan → Pay via debit/credit/UPI/netbanking → Receipt generated → Challan cleared instantly. NOTIFICATION: SMS sent to registered mobile (if updated in RTO records). Email sometimes. Many people miss notifications! PROACTIVE CHECK: Check monthly, especially after: long drive, toll plazas (speed cameras), traffic signals (red light cameras), highways (CCTV). CONSEQUENCES OF NON-PAYMENT: After 60 days: Legal notice sent. After 90 days: Case filed in court OR challan added to RC (blocking renewal, NOC, transfer). Interest/penalty charges added. AMOUNT: ₹500-₹10,000 depending on violation. New Motor Vehicle Act 2019 penalties HIGH! Drunk driving ₹10,000, no insurance ₹2,000, speeding ₹1,000-2,000.
What is International Driving Permit (IDP)? Do I need it to drive abroad?
IDP = Booklet translating your Indian DL into 10 languages. Valid in 180+ countries (Geneva Convention 1949 signatories). NOT A LICENSE - must carry IDP + Indian DL both abroad. WHEN NEEDED: Driving in foreign countries for tourism/short-term (car rental, bike rental). Valid 1 year from issue OR till Indian DL expiry (whichever earlier). HOW TO APPLY: Visit your local RTO (any RTO, not necessarily where DL issued) → Fill IDP application form → Attach: DL copy, passport copy, visa/ticket proof, photos → Pay ₹1,000 → Submit → IDP issued in 1-3 days (booklet format). COUNTRIES: Works in USA (check state rules - some states accept Indian DL directly), UK, Europe, Australia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, UAE, etc. CHECK before travel: Embassy website for specific country driving rules. EXCEPTIONS: Some countries DON'T need IDP - they accept Indian DL directly (New Zealand, Switzerland for 1 year). Some countries DON'T accept IDP - need local license (China, Japan - need local translation + test). LONG-TERM: Staying abroad >1 year? Get local driving license (usually need to give written test, sometimes practical too).
What is FASTag? How does it work? Is it mandatory?
FASTag = RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) sticker affixed on vehicle windscreen for AUTOMATIC toll payment. NO STOPPING at toll plaza! WORKING: FASTag has prepaid account linked to bank/wallet → Vehicle approaches toll → RFID reader scans FASTag → Amount auto-deducted from account → Barrier opens → SMS confirmation. MANDATORY: Since 2021, FASTag mandatory for ALL vehicles (cars, bikes, buses, trucks). Double toll charged if no FASTag or insufficient balance! HOW TO BUY: Online: Order from FAStag issuer websites (banks - SBI, HDFC, ICICI, Paytm Payments Bank, etc.) → Fill RC details → Pay ₹100-300 (refundable security + first recharge) → FASTag courier to home → Stick on windscreen. Offline: Visit toll plaza/petrol pump/bank branch → Fill form with RC → Pay → Get FASTag → Affix immediately. RECHARGE: Link bank account OR wallet (Paytm, PhonePe) for auto-recharge when balance low. Manual recharge via apps/netbanking. ADVANTAGES: Cashless, no queue, faster (save 10-15 mins per toll), 2.5% discount on national highways, SMS alerts, online transaction history. PORTABILITY: Changing vehicle? De-link FASTag from old RC, link to new RC on issuer portal/app.
Vehicle registration transfer - I bought used car, how to get RC in my name?
RC TRANSFER = Changing ownership from seller to buyer via RTO. MANDATORY within 14 days of sale. PROCESS: STEP 1 - NOC FROM FINANCIER: If vehicle on loan, seller gets NOC (No Objection Certificate) from bank after loan closure. STEP 2 - DOCUMENTS: Seller provides: Original RC, valid insurance, PUC certificate, Form 29 (NOC from seller), Form 30 (Application by buyer), sale invoice/receipt, NOC from bank (if any). Buyer provides: ID proof, address proof, PAN card (if vehicle >₹5 lakh). STEP 3 - ONLINE APPLICATION: Both visit RTO OR buyer applies online on Parivahan portal → Upload documents → Pay transfer fees (₹300-1,000 varies by state) → Submit. STEP 4 - RTO INSPECTION: RTO verifies engine/chassis number → Checks original RC → Biometric of buyer. STEP 5 - NEW RC ISSUED: Updated RC with buyer name issued in 7-30 days. DIFFERENT STATE BUYER: If seller Rajasthan, buyer Gujarat → More complex! Seller gets NOC from Rajasthan RTO (30 days process) → Buyer re-registers in Gujarat (new RC with Gujarat number plate, pay Gujarat road tax). CONSEQUENCES OF NOT TRANSFERRING: Challans/legal notices go to seller (original owner on RC). Accidents make seller liable. Seller cannot sell another vehicle (some state limits). DO IMMEDIATELY after buying used vehicle!
How to renew vehicle registration (RC) online? When does RC expire?
RC VALIDITY: Personal vehicles (car, bike): 15 years from first registration → Renewal for another 15 years → Total 30 years, then vehicle "end of life". Commercial vehicles (taxi, bus, truck): 5 years → Renewal every 5 years → Total 15 years, then scrap. RENEWAL PROCESS ONLINE: Visit parivahan.gov.in OR state transport website → "Renew Vehicle Registration" → Enter vehicle number → Fill form → Upload: Current RC, valid insurance, PUC certificate, photos of vehicle (front, side, back, chassis/engine number visible) → Pay renewal fees (₹200-1,000 + road tax if applicable) → Submit → Fitness test appointment given (for old vehicles/commercial). OFFLINE: Visit RTO with documents → Vehicle physical inspection by RTO officer → Fitness test (brakes, lights, emission) → Fees payment → Renewed RC issued in 7-30 days (endorsement on old RC). WHEN TO RENEW: Up to 1 year before expiry OR within 5 years after expiry (late fees applicable). After 5 years expiry, vehicle registration cancelled, very difficult to renew. CHECK VALIDITY: On RC card (bottom section - registration date + validity) OR Parivahan vahan portal (search vehicle number). SET REMINDER 6 months before!
Pollution certificate (PUC) - how to get, validity, cost, mandatory?
PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificate = Proof vehicle meets emission standards. MANDATORY for all vehicles while driving. VALIDITY: Petrol vehicles: 6 months. Diesel <7 years: 6 months. Diesel >7 years: 3 months. Electric vehicles: EXEMPT (no pollution!). WHERE TO GET: Authorized PUC centers - Found at: Petrol/diesel pumps (most have), RTO premises, Authorized garages/service stations. Look for "Authorized PUC Test Center" board. PROCESS: Drive to PUC center → Provide RC book → 2-wheelers: probe inserted in silencer, engine run at different RPMs → 4-wheelers: probe inserted in exhaust pipe, idle + high RPM test → Computer analyzes CO, HC levels → If within limits, certificate printed IMMEDIATELY (5-10 mins) → If fails, get vehicle serviced (engine tuning, change oil, clean air filter etc.) and re-test. COST: ₹60-100 (includes test + certificate). VALID PAN INDIA: PUC from any state acceptable all over India. CONSEQUENCES OF NO PUC: ₹10,000 fine + RC seizure + Vehicle impounded till PUC obtained. CARRY: In vehicle always with RC. Traffic cops ask for RC + PUC + Insurance + DL (4 documents). RENEWAL: Go to ANY PUC center 2-3 days before expiry (even during journey), instant renewal.
Traffic fines increased drastically. What are new penalties under Motor Vehicles Act 2019?
Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2019 increased penalties 5-10 times! MAJOR VIOLATIONS & FINES: 1) General offences: ₹500 (was ₹100). 2) Driving without license: ₹5,000 + vehicle seizure (was ₹500). 3) Driving without insurance: ₹2,000 + 3 months jail + vehicle seizure (was ₹1,000). 4) Drunk driving: ₹10,000 + jail (was ₹2,000). 5) Over-speeding: ₹1,000-2,000 (was ₹400). 6) Dangerous/Rash driving: ₹5,000 (was ₹1,000). 7) Not wearing helmet (2-wheeler): ₹1,000 + 3 months DL suspension (was ₹100). 8) Not wearing seatbelt: ₹1,000 (was ₹100). 9) Using mobile while driving: ₹1,000-5,000 + DL suspension (was ₹100). 10) Jumping red light/signal: ₹1,000 (was ₹100). 11) Overloading passengers: ₹20,000 (was ₹200). 12) No RC/Permit: ₹10,000 (was ₹5,000). 13) Wrong parking/obstruction: ₹500 (was ₹50). 14) Race/stunt on road: ₹5,000 + jail (was₹500). 15) Hit and run: ₹25,000-50,000 + upto 10 years jail. 16) Juvenile driving: Parents jailed + ₹25,000 fine + vehicle registration cancelled. PLUS: DL suspension, vehicle impounded, community service penalty for repeat offenders, Good Samaritan protection (helping accident victims - no liability). IMPACT: Traffic rule violations expensive! Follow rules strictly!.
Can I drive vehicle registered in another state? What about permanent shifting?
TEMPORARY STAY (Job transfer, study, travel): YES, can drive vehicle registered in ANY state anywhere in India. No formalities. Indian RC valid PAN India. Example: Car registered in Delhi, you working in Bangalore → drive with Delhi number plate, no issue. PERMANENT SHIFTING (>1 year): Two options: OPTION 1 - Keep old registration: Allowed for 12 months (some states 24 months). Just drive with original state RC. But local RTO can ask why residing here with other state vehicle (for tax evasion check). OPTION 2 - Transfer to new state (RECOMMENDED): Apply for NOC (No Objection Certificate) from original state RTO → Get NOC (30 days process, ensure no pending challans, tax clearance) → Within 6 months of NOC (NOC valid 6 months), visit new state RTO → Re-register vehicle → Pay new state road tax → New RC issued with new state registration number → New number plate affixed. ROAD TAX: If original state lifetime tax paid, new state gives rebate (credit for remaining years). If periodic, may need to pay difference. BEST PRACTICE: If relocating permanently (new job, buying property etc.), transfer RC to new state. Avoids legal hassles, challans sent to correct address, easier to sell locally. If temporary (1-2 years), continue with old RC.
What is difference between third-party and comprehensive vehicle insurance?
Two types of vehicle insurance: THIRD-PARTY (TP) INSURANCE: Covers OTHERS (third-party) damages only. Example: Your car hits someone → Their person injury medical costs paid (₹15 lakh max) + their property damage (₹7.5 lakh max). YOUR vehicle damage NOT covered! MANDATORY by law - cannot buy vehicle without TP insurance, cannot drive without it (₹2,000 fine + jail). COST: ₹1,500-₹3,000/year (fixed by IRDAI - same across insurers). COMPREHENSIVE (Package) INSURANCE: Covers EVERYTHING: Third-party damages (as above) + Own Damage (OD): Your vehicle repairs/replacement due to accident, theft, fire, natural calamity + Personal accident cover: ₹15 lakh for owner. OPTIONAL but highly recommended. COST: ₹5,000-₹25,000/year (varies by IDV - Insured Declared Value, vehicle age, city, no-claim bonus). WHICH TO CHOOSE? New/expensive vehicle: Comprehensive (peace of mind, EMI protection, resale value). Old/cheap vehicle (<₹2 lakh current value): TP enough (OD premium might exceed vehicle value!). ADD-ONS: Zero depreciation (full value claim), engine protection, tyre protection, roadside assistance, passenger cover. CLAIM: Cashless at network garages OR reimbursement. NCB (No Claim Bonus): 20-50% discount if no claims previous year. RENEW on time - even 1 day lapse loses NCB!
Required Documents
- Age Proof (Birth certificate, 10th marksheet, passport, Aadhaar - DOB proof)
- Address Proof (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID, electricity bill, rent agreement)
- Form 1 (Application form for learner license - download from Parivahan)
- Form 2 (Application form for permanent DL - download from Parivahan)
- Passport Size Photographs (recent, 3-4 color photos, white background)
- Medical Certificate (Form 1A - self-declaration for non-transport, doctor certificate for transport/50+ age)
- Learner License (mandatory to apply for permanent DL, wait 30 days)
- Driving School Certificate (optional - preferred in some RTOs, shows training)
- Aadhaar Card (mandatory - for authentication, address proof)
- Fees Payment Receipt (online payment confirmation or bank challan)
- Previous DL (if adding new vehicle class or renewal)
- For Vehicle Registration: Invoice (vehicle purchase bill from dealer)
- For Vehicle Registration: Insurance Copy (minimum third-party, valid 1+ year)
- For Vehicle Registration: Form 20, 21 (given by dealer)
- For Vehicle Registration: PAN Card (for vehicles >₹10 lakh)
- For RC Transfer: NOC from financier (if vehicle on loan)
- For RC Transfer: Form 29, 30 (transfer forms)
- For NOC: Tax clearance certificate, pending challan clearance
- For IDP: Passport, visa/ticket copy, current valid DL
- For Duplicate: FIR copy (if lost), damaged original (if damaged), affidavit