RC Details: How to Check Vehicle RC Online, Download RC, Format & Expiry

A Registration Certificate (RC) is one of the most crucial documents for any vehicle owner in India. Whether you're driving a car or riding a two-wheeler, carrying your RC—either physically or digitally—is mandatory. In this blog, we'll cover everything from the RC full form and format to checking your RC status online and downloading it via DigiLocker.

What is an RC?

RC stands for Registration Certificate. It is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) that certifies your vehicle has been registered with the Indian government. The RC includes important details such as:

• Vehicle owner's name
• Vehicle registration number
• Engine and chassis number
• Fuel type
• Vehicle class (e.g., LMV, MCWG)
• Registration and expiry date

As per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, driving without a valid RC is illegal in India.

RC Full Form and Meaning

RC Full Form: Registration Certificate

Meaning: A government-issued proof that confirms legal ownership and registration of a vehicle.

It serves as your vehicle’s ID and is needed for insurance, transfer of ownership, or in case of theft/loss.

How to Check Vehicle RC Details Online

You can easily check your RC details online using government-approved platforms. Here’s how:

Method 1: Using Vehicleinfo

• Visit: vehicleinfo.app/rc-search
• Enter your vehicle registration number (e.g., MH12AB1234)
• Click on Search RC
• Get instant access to details like owner name, registration date, fuel type, and insurance validity

Method 2: Through Parivahan Portal

• Visit: https://parivahan.gov.in

• Go to Online Services > Vehicle-Related Services
• Select your state, then choose RC Status
• Enter your registration number and captcha
• Click Search Vehicle
• Importance of RC for Every Vehicle Owner
• Proof of legal vehicle ownership
• Required for insurance claims
• Mandatory during traffic checks
• Essential for vehicle resale
• Required during vehicle loan application or hypothecation removal
• Driving without a valid RC can lead to fines or even vehicle seizure.

Difference Between Physical RC and Virtual RC

Physical RC Virtual RC

Printed smart card or paper Stored digitally via DigiLocker or mParivahan

Can be lost or damaged Always available on your phone

Needs reissue if lost Secure and accessible anytime

Legally valid Legally accepted as per government norms

According to the Ministry of Road Transport, digital RCs are valid proof of ownership under the Motor Vehicles Act.

How to Download RC from DigiLocker

Follow these steps to download your digital RC:

• Download DigiLocker App from Play Store or App Store
• Sign in using your mobile number and OTP
• Go to Issued Documents > Search Documents
• Choose Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)
• Select Vehicle Registration Certificate
• Enter your registration number and chassis number (last 5 digits)
• Your RC will be fetched and saved in your DigiLocker account

RC Number Format Explained

An Indian vehicle registration number follows this format:

State Code (2 letters) + RTO Code (2 digits) + Unique Identifier (4 digits)

Example: MH12 AB 1234

• MH – State code (Maharashtra)
• 12 – RTO office code (Pune)
• AB – Series code
• 1234 – Unique vehicle number

Each RTO in India has a unique code that helps identify the origin of a vehicle.

How to Check RC Expiry Date

RCs for private vehicles are valid for 15 years from the date of registration. After that, they must be renewed every 5 years.

1. Steps to check RC expiry date online:
2. Visit Vehicleinfo RC Search
3. Enter your vehicle number
4. Click on Search RC
5. Your RC validity and expiry date will be displayed instantly

You can also check this on the Parivahan portal as explained above.

Conclusion

Your RC is not just a piece of paper—it’s your vehicle’s identity and legal backbone. Whether you're buying a used vehicle, selling yours, or simply doing a document check, knowing how to check RC details, download it digitally, and understand its format can save you from future hassles.