Lost Your RC and DL? Follow These Steps to Get Your Seized Vehicle Released

But if your vehicle has already been impounded, don't worry. Here's a simple guide to help you understand the process of getting it released.

Find Out Why Your Vehicle Was Seized

The first step is to understand the exact reason for the seizure. The traffic police will usually issue a challan, seizure memo, or other official documents. Keep these papers safely, as they will be required during the release process.

Check DigiLocker and mParivahan

Before taking further action, see if your RC and DL are available digitally.

DigiLocker is the Government of India's digital document storage platform where you can access important documents such as your driving licence, RC, insurance papers, and more.
mParivahan is an app by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways that lets users view digital versions of vehicle-related documents.

If the officer accepts these digital documents, the issue may be resolved without further action.

Keep the Police Documents Safe

If your vehicle has been impounded, the challan or seizure memo given by the police is extremely important. Losing these documents can delay or complicate the release process.

When You May Need a Court Order

In some cases, the vehicle can only be released after approval from the court or another competent authority. You may need to submit an application, and many vehicle owners choose to take legal assistance during this process.

Documents You May Need

While applying for the vehicle's release, you may be asked to submit:

• Registration Certificate (RC)
• Driving Licence (DL)
• Vehicle insurance policy
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
• Aadhaar card or other identity proof
• Vehicle ownership proof
• Challan copy
• Seizure memo
• Court application, if required

If your original RC or DL has been lost or stolen, clearly explain the reason in your application.

Lost Your RC or DL? File an FIR

If your documents are genuinely missing, file an FIR or a 'Lost Report' at the nearest police station. This document will also help you apply for duplicate copies of your RC and driving licence from the Regional Transport Office (RTO).

How to Get Your Vehicle Released

If the matter goes to court, the court may impose a fine or issue other directions under the Motor Vehicles Act. Pay any applicable fine and keep the payment receipt safely.

Once the court approves the release, you will receive a 'Release Order.' Take this order to the concerned police station, complete the required formalities, and collect your vehicle.

Documents Required at the Time of Release

You may need the following documents while reclaiming your vehicle:

• RC
• Driving Licence
• Insurance policy
• PUC certificate
• Aadhaar card or valid identity proof
• Challan
• Seizure memo
• FIR or Lost Report (if applicable)
• Court Release Order

If your vehicle is impounded because you were not carrying your RC or driving licence, first check whether valid digital copies are available on DigiLocker or mParivahan. If the vehicle has already been seized, preserve all documents issued by the police, follow the legal procedure, and obtain duplicate documents if the originals are lost. Acting promptly and keeping the required paperwork ready can help you recover your vehicle with fewer delays.