Registering a new vehicle in Tamil Nadu is a crucial step for vehicle owners to ensure their vehicle is legally recognized and allowed to operate on the roads. The process involves several steps, from preparing the necessary documents to submitting your application to the Regional Transport Office (RTO). This guide will walk you through the steps required for the new vehicle registration process in Tamil Nadu.
Step 1: Purchase the Vehicle
The first step in the registration process is purchasing your new vehicle from an authorized dealer. The dealer will provide you with essential documents, including the sale certificate, temporary registration certificate, and the roadworthiness certificate. These documents are necessary for completing the registration process.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Before visiting the RTO, make sure you have all the required documents. These include:
- Form 20: Application for registration of a new motor vehicle.
- Form 21: Sale certificate issued by the vehicle dealer.
- Form 22: Roadworthiness certificate issued by the vehicle manufacturer.
- Form 34: If the vehicle is under a loan, this form is required, signed by both the owner and the financier.
- Insurance Certificate: Proof of valid vehicle insurance.
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate: Certificate indicating the vehicle meets pollution control standards.
- Address Proof: Valid address proof documents such as Aadhaar card, passport, or utility bills.
- Temporary Registration Certificate: Provided by the dealer.
- Invoice: Original invoice of the vehicle purchase.
- ID Proof: Valid identity proof such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, or passport.
- Passport Size Photographs: Recent photographs of the vehicle owner.
Step 3: Visit the RTO
Once you have all the necessary documents, visit the RTO office in your jurisdiction. It is advisable to go early to avoid long queues. At the RTO, you will need to submit the documents and the application form (Form 20) at the designated counter.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
The next step is to pay the applicable registration fees. The fee amount may vary based on the type and class of the vehicle. Ensure you collect the receipt after the payment as proof of the transaction.
Step 5: Vehicle Inspection
After the submission of documents and fee payment, the vehicle will undergo a physical inspection by an RTO officer. The officer will verify the chassis number, engine number, and overall condition of the vehicle. Once the inspection is complete, the officer will provide a clearance report.
Step 6: Issuance of Registration Number
Upon successful verification and inspection, the RTO will process your application and assign a permanent registration number to your vehicle. You will receive the registration certificate (RC), which includes the vehicle’s registration number, owner’s details, and vehicle specifications.
Step 7: Affix Registration Plates
After receiving the registration number, you will need to get the registration plates affixed to your vehicle. These plates must comply with the specifications set by the RTO, including the use of high-security registration plates (HSRP) if required.
Step 8: Collect the Registration Certificate (RC)
Finally, collect the original Registration Certificate (RC) from the RTO. This document serves as proof of your vehicle’s registration and should be kept in the vehicle at all times. The RC card may also be sent to your registered address by post.