RC transfer in Kerala: documents and steps to change vehicle ownership

When you buy or sell a used vehicle, the deal is not finished when the money changes hands. The registration certificate (RC) has to be transferred to the new owner. Until that happens, the seller is still the legal owner, and stays responsible for anything the vehicle is involved in, from traffic fines to accidents.

This guide explains how the transfer works in Kerala. Rules and fees can change, so always confirm the latest details on the Parivahan website or with your RTO.

When to do it

The Motor Vehicles Act expects the transfer to be reported within 14 days when the buyer lives in the same state, and within 45 days when the buyer lives in a different state. Doing it on the day of the sale is the safest option for both sides.

Documents you will usually need

1. The original RC.

2. Form 29, the notice of transfer of ownership, signed by the seller. It is usually submitted in two copies.

3. Form 30, the application for transfer of ownership, signed by both the seller and the buyer.

4. A valid insurance certificate.

5. A valid pollution under control (PUC) certificate.

6. Address proof for the buyer, such as Aadhaar.

7. PAN card details, or Form 60 if the buyer does not have a PAN.

8. If the vehicle had a loan, the bank's NOC and Form 35 to remove the loan (hypothecation) from the RC.

9. If the vehicle is registered in another state, an NOC (Form 28) from the original RTO.

The steps

1. Fill in Forms 29 and 30. You can download them from the Parivahan website.

2. Apply online through the Vahan services on the Parivahan website. Choose the transfer of ownership service, enter the vehicle details, upload the documents and pay the fee online.

3. Submit the original documents at the RTO if you are asked to, and keep the receipt.

4. Once the transfer is approved, the new RC is issued in the buyer's name, either as a smart card by post or as a digital RC you can download.

Tips for sellers

Do not hand over the vehicle with only signed blank forms. Keep a copy of every signed form and a written sale agreement that records the date, time, odometer reading and price. If the buyer delays the transfer, these papers protect you.

Tips for buyers

Check that the chassis and engine numbers on the vehicle match the RC before you pay. Check for unpaid fines and any loan on the vehicle using the registration number. Transfer the insurance to your name as well, because a policy in the old owner's name may not protect you.

On Flystore, buyers and sellers deal directly with each other. We never take payments, so settle the price only after you have seen the vehicle and the documents in person.