What Are the Essential Steps to Properly Transfer Car Ownership After Selling?

Selling a car involves more than just handing over the keys and receiving payment. One of the most important steps after selling a vehicle is transferring its ownership to the buyer. Failing to complete this process can leave the seller liable for fines, traffic violations, or accidents involving the car. In India, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and the respective Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) regulate this procedure, and completing it digitally or offline ensures a hassle-free transfer.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before initiating the ownership transfer, ensure you have all necessary documents. The key documents include:

• Original Registration Certificate (RC) of the vehicle
• Form 28 (Notice of Transfer of Ownership by Seller)
• Form 29 (Application for Transfer of Ownership) signed by both seller and buyer
• Valid insurance certificate
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
• Buyer’s address proof (Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID)
• Seller’s ID proof

Having these documents ready makes the process smooth and reduces delays at the RTO.

Step 2: Fill Out the Forms

The main forms involved in the ownership transfer are:

• Form 28: This form is submitted by the seller to the RTO to inform them about the sale. It officially notifies the authorities that the vehicle is no longer under the seller’s possession.
• Form 29: This is completed jointly by the seller and buyer and is submitted to the RTO along with the RC, insurance, and PUC certificates.

Ensure all details, including the vehicle number, buyer’s name, address, and sale date, are accurately mentioned in both forms. Any discrepancy may lead to rejection.

Step 3: Submit the Application to RTO

After filling out the forms, submit the complete application along with supporting documents to the RTO where the vehicle is registered. The RTO will verify the details and may issue a receipt confirming submission. In some cases, the RTO may also schedule an inspection of the vehicle before completing the transfer.

Step 4: Pay Transfer Fees

Ownership transfer requires a nominal fee, which varies depending on the vehicle type and state regulations. The payment can usually be made at the RTO or through the Parivahan online portal, depending on the RTO’s facilities. Retain the receipt of the payment as proof of the transaction.

Step 5: Online Transfer Option

Many RTOs now allow digital transfer of ownership through the Parivahan Sewa portal :

• Visit Parivahan Sewa
• and select Vehicle Registration Services
• Enter the vehicle number and required details
• Upload scanned copies of RC, insurance, PUC, Form 28, and Form 29
• Pay the applicable fee online
• Receive the confirmation and updated RC digitally

The online process is convenient, reduces paperwork, and ensures traceable submission.

Step 6: Verify Transfer Completion

Once the transfer is complete, the buyer will receive a new RC in their name. Sellers should also check the status online to confirm the update. Until this is done, sellers remain legally responsible for traffic violations, accidents, or pending fines associated with the vehicle.

• Tips to Ensure a Smooth Ownership Transfer
• Always submit Form 28 immediately after the sale to avoid liability.
• Keep a copy of the sale invoice signed by both parties.
• Advise the buyer to complete insurance transfer promptly to avoid claim issues.
• Follow up online via the Parivahan portal to track the transfer status.