Duplicate RC Book Online 2026: Steps, Fees, Process & Download

A Registration Certificate (RC) book is an official document issued by the RTO that proves your vehicle is legally registered under the Motor Vehicles Act. It includes vital details like the owner’s name, chassis number, engine number, and registration number, making it essential to carry while riding or driving.

Lost your bike’s RC book? Or maybe it’s damaged, torn, or stolen? Don’t panic — getting a duplicate RC book today is much simpler than it used to be. Thanks to online RTO portals like Parivahan, you can now apply for a duplicate RC online, pay fees digitally, and even track your application status — all from home.

This guide explains exactly how to get a duplicate RC, the required documents, fee details, and how to download the duplicate RC when it’s ready. Let’s get started!

A Duplicate RC Book (Registration Certificate) is an official copy of your original RC document issued by your local Regional Transport Office (RTO). It proves that your vehicle is legally registered and roadworthy.

Why would you need one? Because under the Motor Vehicles Act, riding or driving without a valid RC can attract fines or even vehicle seizure. If your original RC card is lost, damaged, or stolen, you must apply for a duplicate to stay compliant.

You need to apply for a duplicate RC online or offline if:

• Your RC book is lost or misplaced
• The RC card is torn, damaged, or faded
• Your RC has been stolen, and an FIR has been filed
  

Before you apply, keep these documents ready for a hassle-free process:

Document	Details
Form 26	Application for issuing duplicate RC
FIR Copy	If lost or stolen, attach a copy of the First Information Report (FIR)
Original Damaged RC (if any)	Submit torn or partly damaged RC as proof
ID Proof	Aadhaar, Passport, or other valid government ID
Address Proof	Utility bill, rental agreement, passport copy, etc.
Insurance Certificate	Valid insurance for the vehicle
Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate	Valid PUC
Affidavit	Self-declaration that original RC is lost/stolen/damaged

Tip: Scan each document clearly and keep digital copies under 200–300 KB for smooth uploading.

Here’s what you can expect to pay when you apply for a duplicate RC online or offline:

Vehicle Type	Approx. Fee (₹)
Two-Wheeler	₹300 – ₹500
Light Motor Vehicle (LMV/Car)	₹500 – ₹750
Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV)	₹750 – ₹1,000

Fees vary slightly by state, so always check your RTO’s final rates on Parivahan.

Ready to do it online? Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the Parivahan Portal

Go to parivahan.gov.in. Click on ‘Online Services’ and choose ‘Vehicle Related Services’.

2. Select Your State & RTO

Next, choose your state from the dropdown menu. You’ll be redirected to your state’s RTO portal. Select your local RTO that originally issued your RC — this is crucial because only your original RTO can issue a duplicate RC.

Visual Tip: Many state portals offer an interactive map or dropdown widget to pick your RTO easily.

3. Fill & Upload Form 26

Form 26 is your official request for a duplicate RC. Here’s how to do it:

1. Download Form 26 or fill it out online (if available).
2. Enter your vehicle’s registration number, chassis number, and engine number correctly.
3. Mention why you need a duplicate (lost, stolen, or damaged).
4. Sign the form digitally or upload a scanned, signed copy.
5. Attach the FIR copy (if applicable).
   

Infographic Tip: Keep a checklist icon next to each step to avoid missing anything.

4. Upload Documents & Pay Fees

Upload the supporting documents listed above. The portal will then redirect you to the secure payment gateway.

Payment Methods: Most RTOs accept UPI, debit/credit cards, and net banking.
Screenshot Carousel: Take a screenshot of your payment confirmation and receipt for your records.

5. Download & Print Your RC Book

Once your application is approved — usually within 7–21 working days — you’ll receive an SMS or email. Log back into the portal, go to ‘Download Documents’, and click ‘Download Duplicate RC’.

Print at least two hard copies and keep a laminated version in your vehicle at all times.

Prefer the old-school method? Here’s how to apply for a duplicate RC offline:

1. Visit your local RTO office with all required documents.
2. Fill Form 26 manually and attach copies of the FIR and affidavit.
3. Submit your torn RC (if available).
4. Pay the fee at the RTO cash counter.
5. Collect the acknowledgment receipt and wait for your duplicate RC to be processed.
   

Online: Most duplicate RC applications are processed within 7–21 working days.
Offline: It may take slightly longer due to manual verification, typically 15–30 days.

Infographic Tip: Use a simple timeline graphic to show online vs. offline timelines.

While the Parivahan portal standardizes much of the process, some states still need physical verification or extra affidavits. Always check your local RTO’s site or helpline for state-specific nuances.

Use an interactive dropdown or map widget on your page for readers to check their state’s duplicate RC rules.

Want an easy-to-carry list? Download our PDF checklist covering documents, fees, and all steps you need to get your duplicate RC book.

FAQs

How long does it take to get a duplicate RC?

Online: 7–21 days. Offline: 15–30 days, depending on your RTO.

Can an agent apply on my behalf?

Yes, but ensure you give them a notarized authority letter along with your documents.

What if my RC is partly damaged but still readable?

You still need to submit the damaged RC as proof and apply for a new one.

How can I track my duplicate RC status?

Log in to Parivahan, click ‘Track Application Status’, and enter your registration number.

Conclusion

Losing your RC book isn’t the end of the world, but riding without one can lead to penalties or worse. With this guide, you now know how to apply for duplicate RC, what documents you need, the fee range, and how to download a duplicate RC book online easily.

Stay compliant, stay covered — and keep your vehicle documents safe! Bookmark this guide and share it with fellow riders who might need it too.