A Temporary RC (Registration Certificate) is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) when you purchase a new vehicle but haven’t received your Permanent RC yet. It serves as a temporary proof of ownership and allows you to legally drive your car or bike on Indian roads until the permanent registration is completed.
Many vehicle owners are unsure about the validity of temporary RC, how to download temporary RC book online, and the process to convert temporary RC into permanent RC. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including step-by-step instructions, validity rules, documents required, and how to check your temporary RC status online through the official Parivahan and Vahan portals.
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What Is Temporary RC and When Is It Issued?
- A Temporary Registration Certificate is issued by the dealer or RTO immediately after a new vehicle purchase.
- It acts as a legal authorization to drive until the permanent RC is issued.
- Temporary RC contains essential details like:
- Vehicle details (engine number, chassis number, make, model)
- Owner details (name, address, contact number)
- Issuing RTO and date of issue
- It is mandatory to carry a temporary RC if you don’t yet have a permanent RC.
You can check your RC details online anytime.
Temporary RC Validity: How Many Days Is Temporary RC Valid For?
- A temporary RC is usually valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
- In some cases, validity can be extended up to 6 months, but only under special circumstances and with RTO approval.
- You must apply for permanent RC within the validity period to avoid penalties.
How to Download Temporary RC Book Online
You can download temporary RC online through the Parivahan portal:
Step-by-Step Process
- Visit the official Parivahan Sewa portal.
- Navigate to Vehicle-Related Services.
- Select your State and RTO.
- Enter your vehicle number, chassis number, and engine number.
- Choose “Download Temporary RC / RC Particulars.”
- Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number.
- Download and save the Temporary RC PDF for future use.
Understanding Temporary RC Status and How to Check It
To know whether your temporary RC is active or expired, you can check temporary RC status online.
- Go to Parivahan → Online Services → Know Your RC Status.
- Enter vehicle registration number or chassis number.
- The system will display:
- Temporary RC issue date
- Validity period
- Application progress (if permanent RC has been applied for)
The Parivahan portal makes it easy to track temporary RC status.
Process to Convert Temporary RC to Permanent RC
Once you receive your temporary RC, you must apply for a permanent RC within its validity period.
Conversion Steps
- Visit the RTO office with your vehicle and documents.
- Submit the permanent RC application form along with your temporary RC.
- Provide documents like invoice, insurance, pollution certificate, and address proof.
- Pay the permanent RC registration fees.
- Get your vehicle inspected by the RTO officer.
- After approval, you will receive your permanent RC smart card or digital RC on DigiLocker / mParivahan app.
Documents Required for Temporary RC
- Vehicle purchase invoice
- Valid insurance certificate
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
- Aadhaar card / Address proof
- PAN card (for 4-wheelers)
- Form 20 (application for registration)
- Temporary RC issued by dealer
It is important to understand how to get duplicate RC to avoid fines for missing documents.
Benefits and Limitations of Temporary RC
Benefits
- Immediate legal authorization to drive a new vehicle
- Provides time to complete permanent RC application
- Recognized across India during the validity period
Limitations
- Short validity (30 days, extendable to max 6 months)
- Cannot be used for resale or vehicle transfer
- Must be converted to permanent RC before expiry
Common Issues With Temporary RC and How to Resolve Them
- Temporary RC not found online
Solution: Contact your dealer/RTO to confirm if details were uploaded to Vahan. - Temporary RC expired before permanent RC issued
Solution: Apply for permanent RC immediately; late fee/penalty may apply. - Download error on Parivahan portal
Solution: Clear browser cache, try another browser, or visit RTO.
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FAQ
Q1. What is the validity of a temporary RC in India?
A temporary RC is valid for 30 days and can be extended up to 6 months under special approval.
Q2. Can I drive with only a temporary RC?
Yes, a temporary RC is valid proof of registration until your permanent RC is issued.
Q3. How to download temporary RC online?
Visit Parivahan → Vehicle Related Services → Download RC Particulars, enter details, and download the PDF.
Q4. Can I extend my temporary RC validity?
Yes, but only with RTO approval and under specific circumstances.
Q5. What happens if my temporary RC expires?
Driving with an expired RC is illegal. You must apply for a permanent RC immediately.