A Duplicate Registration Certificate (Duplicate RC) is a very important document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) when the original Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) is lost, stolen, damaged, or unreadable. In India, carrying a valid RC Book or Smart RC Card is mandatory while driving a vehicle. It acts as legal proof of vehicle ownership and registration. Without it, vehicle owners may face problems during traffic police checks, insurance claims, vehicle resale, loan transfer, or address change. That is why RTO Services Duplicate RC are extremely useful for every vehicle owner.
In recent years, the government has made the Duplicate RC application process simple and digital. Through the official Parivahan Sewa Portal, citizens can now apply for a Duplicate RC Online without visiting the RTO multiple times. This online RTO service saves time, reduces paperwork, and offers a transparent and user-friendly experience. Applicants can submit forms, upload documents, pay fees online, and track application status easily.
There are many situations where a Duplicate RC is required, such as RC lost, RC stolen, RC damaged due to water or fire, or old RC details faded. In case of theft, filing an FIR copy is compulsory, while for loss or damage, a self-declaration or affidavit may be needed. Once verified, the RTO issues a new Duplicate RC, which has the same legal validity as the original RC.
In 2026, RTO Duplicate RC Services are designed to be fast, secure, and citizen-friendly. Whether you choose online Duplicate RC apply through Parivahan or offline application at RTO, understanding the process helps avoid delays and mistakes. This guide will help you learn everything about Duplicate RC eligibility, documents required, fees, online & offline process, making it easy for you to get your Duplicate Registration Certificate without stress.
RTO Duplicate RC – Quick Overview (2026)
| Topic | Details (2026 Updated) |
|---|---|
| Service Name | Duplicate RC (Registration Certificate) |
| Authority | Regional Transport Office (RTO), Govt. of India |
| When Needed? | Lost, stolen, damaged, torn, burnt, unreadable RC |
| Online Portal | Parivahan → Vehicle Related Services |
| Application Form | Form 26 |
| Documents Required | FIR (if lost), ID proof, Address proof, PUC, Insurance, Chassis print, Photo |
| Online Fee (Approx.) | ₹300 – ₹500 (Two-Wheeler), ₹700 – ₹1500 (Car) |
| Offline Fee | Similar, depends on state |
| Processing Time | 7–15 days (Online), 10–20 days (Offline) |
| Tracking Method | Parivahan Application Status |
| Legal Use | Same value as original RC |
| DIGILocker RC Valid? | Yes, accepted across India |
What is Duplicate RC?
A Duplicate Registration Certificate (RC) is a re-issued RC card provided by the RTO when the original RC is missing or damaged. It has the same legal validity as the original RC and is required to drive your vehicle legally in India.
When Do You Need a Duplicate RC?
You must apply for a duplicate RC if:
- Your RC book/card is lost or misplaced
- RC is stolen
- RC is damaged, torn, faded, or unreadable
- RC was burnt or destroyed
- You need a new smart card version of your RC
Driving without a valid RC is against the law in India.
How to Apply for Duplicate RC Online (2026)
Follow the steps below to apply online through the Parivahan portal:
Step-by-Step Process
- Go to: https://parivahan.gov.in
- Select Online Services → Vehicle Related Services
- Choose your State and RTO
- Click Apply for Duplicate RC
- Enter Vehicle Number and Chassis Number (last 5 digits)
- Confirm vehicle owner details
- Upload required documents
- Pay the Duplicate RC fee
- Submit the application
- Save the Acknowledgement Receipt
Offline Duplicate RC Application Process (2026)
If you prefer offline submission, follow these steps:
- Visit your RTO office
- Collect and fill Form 26
- Attach FIR copy (if RC is lost)
- Attach documents (ID proof, insurance, PUC, etc.)
- Pay the required fee
- Submit the application and take the receipt
- Collect the RC or wait for it to arrive via post
Documents Required for Duplicate RC (2026)
Mandatory
- Form 26 (signed)
- FIR copy (in case of loss or theft)
- Aadhaar / PAN / Passport (ID proof)
- Address proof
- Insurance certificate
- Pollution Under Control (PUC)
- Chassis imprint (pencil rubbing)
- Passport-size photograph
- Lost/damaged RC application
- Bank NOC (if vehicle is on loan)
If RC is damaged
Submit the damaged RC → No FIR required.
Duplicate RC Fees in India (2026)
| Vehicle Type | Approx Fee |
|---|---|
| Two-Wheeler | ₹300 – ₹500 |
| Car / Four-Wheeler | ₹700 – ₹1,500 |
| Commercial Vehicles | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 |
| Smart Card Charges | ₹200 – ₹450 extra |
Other charges:
- Postal fee
- Hypothecation fee (if vehicle loan is active)
How to Track Duplicate RC Status Online
- Visit Parivahan portal
- Click Know Your Application Status
- Enter Application Number / Registration Number
- Check live updates like:
- Under Process
- Approved
- Printed
- Dispatched
- Delivered
Important Guidelines (2026)
- Always file an FIR if RC is lost or stolen
- Keep a digital RC in DigiLocker or mParivahan
- Ensure all documents are self-attested
- Provide accurate mobile number for SMS alerts
- If the old RC is found later, return it to RTO
Benefits of Applying Online
✔ Faster processing
✔ No repeated RTO visits
✔ Online fee payment
✔ Easy tracking
✔ Digital acknowledgement receipt
✔ Safe and transparent
FAQs – Duplicate RC (2026)
1. Is FIR compulsory for duplicate RC?
Yes, only if the RC is lost or stolen.
2. Can I use DigiLocker RC instead of physical RC?
Yes, it is legally valid across India.
3. Do I need Bank NOC for applying duplicate RC?
Yes, if your vehicle is financed.
4. Is duplicate RC treated same as original?
Yes, 100% valid.
5. How long will the RC take to arrive?
7–15 days online, 10–20 days offline.
Conclusion
Applying for a Duplicate RC in 2026 is now easier and faster with the Parivahan online system. Whether your RC is lost, stolen, torn, damaged, or unreadable, you can request a new one quickly using the online or offline method discussed above.
Make sure to keep a digital copy in DigiLocker and follow the document checklist carefully for faster approval.
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