According to a news published in the Economic Times, around 80,000 fake motor policies were discovered (2022-23). The Punjab Transport authorities cancelled 3,802 registration certificates that were found to have been fraudulently registered. An insider used fake IDs to register 315 banned BS-IV vehicles. It shows how people can abuse and create mass fraudulent registrations. To prevent such fraud, businesses should verify Vehicle RCs before issuing insurance or a vehicle. Here, in this guide, you will learn about RC verification.

What is Vehicle RC?

A Vehicle RC or Registration Certification. It is a mandatory document that serves as proof of vehicle ownership and legal registration with the RTO (Regional Transport Office). This document contains important information such as vehicle registration number, make, model, engine number, chassis number, and the owner’s details. Individuals should have this along with a driving license to drive legally on the road.

Methods to Verify Vehicle RC Online

Follow the methods below to check vehicle RC online:

Parivahan

• Visit Parivahan Portal.
• Under the Online Services Tab, click on vehicle-related services.
• Click on Select State Name.
• Now fill in the required details such as Registration Number, State, and Select RTO.
• Click on Status, click Know Your Application Status
• Enter Vehicle Registration Number, Captcha, and click on Submit.
• Get Details for Verification.

Online RC Verification API

You can verify the Registration Certificate, such as an identification document, for any vehicle.

• Enter the Vehicle RC Number and Verify with OTP
• Get details for verification.

Why RC Verification is Crucial?

Registration certificate verification is essential for safety, compliance, and fraud prevention.

For Individuals

• Buying a Used Car: It helps ensure the vehicle is not stolen and has no pending loans, and was not involved in major accidents.
• Selling a Car: Verification confirms that the buyer is providing a legitimate RC with up-to-date information.
• During Traffic Stops, it protects you from being involved in penalties and confirms that documents are valid.

For Businesses

• Insurance Companies: Fraudulent RCs are a major risk in the insurance sector. Fake or tampered vehicle documents can lead to false claims, inflated settlements, or even coverage for vehicles which is legally invalid. Insurers can confirm the authenticity of the vehicle before issuing or renewing a policy. It not only reduces financial losses and builds customer trust.
• Banks and Lenders: Banks and lenders can use this API to ensure that the vehicle is free from existing loans, legal disputes, or forged ownership. Verification helps lenders verify ownership, loan status, and registration. It reduces the risk of defaults.
• Fleet Operators and Logistics Companies: Large fleets and logistics providers manage hundreds or even thousands of vehicles. Fake RCs can cause compliance issues and penalties. Automated RC verification ensures every vehicle is legitimate, registered, and legal. It helps fleet managers to maintain an accurate record.

Legal Consequences of Fake RC

Carrying or using a fake Registration Certificate is a serious offense in India according to the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988, and the Indian Penal Code.

Penalties Under the Motor Vehicles Act

• Section 192: Using a vehicle without proper registration can lead to a fine of up to Rs. 10,000 and imprisonment.
• Section 192A: Using a vehicle for other than permitted purposes (like commercial use without valid papers) can also attract fines up to Rs. 10,000.
• Section 207: The Vehicle can be seized by the authority if the document is found as fake or invalid.

Practical Consequences of Using a Fake RC

You can face these issues on using a fake RC:

• Vehicle Seizure: Traffic or transport authorities have the right to seize your vehicle if the RC is found to be fake.
• Insurance Void: If the RC is found to be forged, your insurance policies can become invalid.
• Loan Issues: You may be blacklisted from future financing, which makes it difficult to get car loans or other credit.

Conclusion

As fake RC cases are increasing. It’s become extremely essential for vehicle owners and fleet businesses to conduct vehicle RC status checks. Fake RC can cause several issues, such as penalties and fraud. As an individual, you can verify the Parivahan portal. However, for business who has to manage multiple vehicles can go for an online solution. An online solution like a Vehicle RC verification API helps in verifying multiple vehicles and enhances the verification process.

FAQs

How to check if RC is real or fake?

You can check RC from the Parivahan Portal.

Is a digital copy of the RC valid?

Yes, a digital copy of the vehicle registration certificate is valid in India.

How to check RC online?

Follow these steps to verify RC online:

Visit the official Parivahan Sewa > Online Services > Vehicle Related Services > Select your state and RTO > click Know Your Vehicle > Enter Registration Number > Captcha and click on Vahan Search.

How to check RC details with a mobile number?

Send a Message to 7738299899 in the format VAHAN [Vehicle Registration Number].

Can I verify RC details without visiting RTO?

Yes, you can verify RC details online through Parivahan Sewa Portal.