Buying a used car can save you a lot of money — but only if the vehicle’s documents are genuine. One of the most important checks is verifying the RC (Registration Certificate) details online before making any payment.
In India, you can easily verify RC details through official government portals — and even through trusted automotive platforms — within minutes. Here’s a complete step-by-step guide.
🔍 What is RC (Registration Certificate)?
The Registration Certificate (RC) is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO). It proves that the vehicle is legally registered with the government.
The RC contains:
Owner’s name
Vehicle registration number
Engine & chassis number
Fuel type
Vehicle class
Registration date
Insurance validity
Fitness & tax details
Verifying this ensures the car is legally owned and not stolen, accidental, or under loan dispute.
✅ Why You Must Verify RC Before Buying
Before buying a used car, RC verification helps you:
✔ Confirm the real owner’s name
✔ Check if the car has a pending loan (hypothecation)
✔ Verify registration date & vehicle age
✔ Match engine & chassis number
✔ Avoid stolen or blacklisted vehicles
✔ Check if vehicle is registered in another state
Skipping this step can lead to legal and financial trouble later.
🌐 Method 1: Verify RC via Official Parivahan Portal
You can verify RC details using the official Parivahan Sewa portal managed by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.
Steps:
Visit the official Parivahan website
Click on “Know Your Vehicle Details”
Enter the vehicle registration number
Complete OTP verification
View vehicle details instantly
You’ll see:
Owner name (partially masked)
Vehicle model & fuel type
Registration date
Insurance validity
RTO details
Hypothecation (loan) status
👉 This is the most reliable and government-approved source.
📱 Method 2: Verify RC via mParivahan App
You can also use the mParivahan mobile app available on Android & iOS.
Steps:
Download and install the app
Sign in with your mobile number
Enter vehicle registration number
View RC details instantly
This method is quick and convenient while inspecting a car physically.
🌍Method 3: Make Use of Reliable Automobile Portals (Easy & Natural Way)
Apart from government portals, you can also check basic vehicle details through trusted automotive platforms like godrivo.com.
Many buyers prefer using platforms like Godrivo as an organic way to:
View vehicle specifications
Compare models
Understand ownership insights
Check resale trends
Get guidance before finalizing a used car deal
While official RC verification should always be done through government portals, platforms like godrivo.com help you research the vehicle thoroughly and make a smarter buying decision.
🚨 Things to Cross-Check During RC Verification
When you verify RC online, compare the details with:
Physical RC card
Seller’s Aadhaar or ID proof
Engine number (physically check on car)
Chassis number (usually under bonnet or near driver seat)
Insurance policy copy
If anything doesn’t match — avoid the deal.
🔎 Check for Hypothecation (Car Loan Status)
If the RC shows Hypothecation: Yes, it means the car is under loan.
Ask the seller for:
NOC from bank
Loan closure letter
Updated RC after loan closure
Never buy a car with an active loan without proper clearance.
📌 Bonus Checks Before Buying
Along with RC verification, also check:
Insurance claim history
Pending traffic challans
Service history
Accident history
Pollution (PUC) certificate
⚠️ Red Flags to Avoid
Seller refusing RC verification
Name mismatch between seller & RC owner
Multiple ownership transfers in short time
Hypothecation not cleared
Registration from different state without NOC
🏁 Final Thoughts
Verifying RC details online before buying a used car is quick, free, and essential. It protects you from fraud, legal issues, and financial loss.
Before paying token money, always:
✔ Verify RC online
✔ Match engine & chassis number
✔ Confirm owner identity
✔ Check loan & insurance status
✔ Research the car properly through trusted platforms like godrivo.com
A 5-minute verification can save you lakhs later.