How to Download Your Vehicle RC Online and Check Its Status Instantly

In the digital age, managing vehicle-related documents has become easier than ever. One of the most important documents for vehicle owners is the Registration Certificate (RC), which can now be downloaded and verified online without visiting the Regional Transport Office (RTO).

This article covers everything you need to know about RC download, RC status check, and how to access it via official government platforms like mParivahan, DigiLocker, and the VAHAN portal.

What is an RC (Registration Certificate)?

The Registration Certificate (RC) is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in India. It certifies that your vehicle is legally registered and authorized to be driven on Indian roads. RC is mandatory for all motor vehicles, whether two-wheelers, four-wheelers, commercial, or private.

Key Details Mentioned in an RC:

• Vehicle registration number
  
  
• Owner’s name and address

Engine and chassis number

Fuel type

Vehicle class (Private, Commercial, etc.)

Date of registration

Validity period of registration

RTO location

Driving a vehicle without a valid RC can attract fines, vehicle seizure, or legal action.

Why Download or Check RC Online?

With increasing digital services offered by the government, downloading or checking your RC online offers many benefits.

Situations When You May Need It:

• Lost or misplaced original RC

Buying a second-hand vehicle and want to verify ownership

RC not yet delivered after purchasing a new vehicle

Applying for insurance, loan, or vehicle sale

For routine traffic checks (digital RC accepted)

How to Download RC Online (Digital RC)

You can download your RC from the following official platforms:

Method 1: mParivahan App

The mParivahan app, developed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), offers a secure and government-verified way to access digital RC and Driving License.

Steps to Download RC from mParivahan:

1. Download and install the mParivahan app (available on Android and iOS).
   
   
2. Open the app and tap on “RC Dashboard”.
   
   
3. Enter your vehicle registration number.

Click on “Search”.

You will see the vehicle details.

To add it to your dashboard, you will need to verify via OTP sent to your registered mobile number.

Once verified, your Virtual RC will be available to download or screenshot.

Note: This virtual RC is valid and accepted by traffic authorities under the Motor Vehicles Act.

Method 2: DigiLocker App

DigiLocker, another Government of India initiative, allows you to store and access verified documents digitally.

Steps to Download RC from DigiLocker:

1. Download the DigiLocker app or visit https://digilocker.gov.in
   
   
2. Login using your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
   
   
3. Go to “Issued Documents”.

Select “Ministry of Road Transport and Highways”.

Choose “Registration of Vehicles”.

Enter your vehicle registration number and last four digits of chassis number.

Your digital RC will be fetched and saved under ‘Issued Documents’.

This e-RC is digitally signed and legally accepted under the IT Act and Motor Vehicles Act.

How to Check RC Status Online

If you have applied for a new registration or want to check the status of any vehicle’s registration, use the VAHAN portal.

Steps to Check RC Status on VAHAN:

1. Visit the official site: https://vahan.parivahan.gov.in
   
   
2. Click on “Know Your Vehicle Details”.
   
   
3. Enter your vehicle registration number (for example, DL01AB1234).

Fill in the captcha code and click “Search Vehicle”.

The page will display the following:

• Owner's name
  
  
• Registration date
  
  
• Vehicle make/model

Chassis and engine numbers (partially masked)

Fitness certificate and insurance status

RC expiry and status (Active/Suspended)

This is especially helpful when purchasing a used car or bike, as you can verify the owner, status, and registration history before buying.

Documents You May Need for Download or Verification

• Vehicle Registration Number

Last 4 digits of Chassis Number (for DigiLocker)

Mobile number linked with Aadhaar or UAN

Access to mParivahan or DigiLocker account