Before you proceed with the application for R.C. renewal, keep the following documents handy for a hassle-free application.

• Duly filled application Form 25
• Registration Certificate or R.C. Book
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate
• Fitness certificate
• Proof of the payment tax (if applicable)
• Car insurance policy certificate
• Copy of PAN card or Form 60 & Form 61 (as applicable)
• Chassis & Engine pencil print
• Signature Identification of the owner

It must be noted that the list of documents required from one state to another may vary. Also, you must ensure that the documents furnished must be updated and correct.

Once you have all the required documents, the next step is to apply for renewal of vehicle registration after 15 years. You can opt for an online procedure or an offline one.

Online Process for Car Registration After 15 Years

Step 1: Visit the official Parivahan Sewa website and click "Online Services" from the menu tab. Step 2: Select the option "Vehicle Related Services." Step 3: Choose your residential state. Some states do not offer online renewal of car registration after 15 years. Step 4: Click on your nearest RTO and then on "Proceed." Step 5: Select "R.C. related Services" and then Opt for "Renewal of Registration." Step 6: Enter details of your vehicle like the registration number etc. Step 7: Click on "Verify Details" to complete the process. Step 8: Pay the pending road tax online (if any) Step 9: Book an R.C. renewal at a selected RTO for your car inspection after successful payment.

Offline Process for Vehicle Registration Renewal After 15 years

Alternatively, you can also get your car renewal through traditional offline methods. To complete the renewal process, you must personally visit the RTO where your car was first registered. Follow the below steps.

Step 1: Duly fill the Form 25 Step 2: Submit the form and other required documents at the RTO. Step 3: Pay the pending taxes at the RTO counter, if applicable. Step 4: The car must be put in for an inspection before the registering authority. Step 5: Make the re-registration fee at the relevant counter and collect the receipt. Step 6: RTO will issue the renewed R.C. through the post, or you can get it hand-delivered.

You can now check your renewal application status online.

Step 1: Visit the official Parivaha Sewa portal. Then go to "Online Services" and select "Vehicle Related Services." Step 2: Select your residential state. Step 3: Select your nearest RTO or the RTO where you applied for renewal and click "Proceed." Step 4: Select "Know Your Application Status" from the status list. Step 5: Mention the renewal application or registration number and click "Submit." Step 6: Add the application number you received after paying renewal fees. Click "View Report" to know your vehicle's R.C. renewal status.

Owning a car is no longer a matter of status. It has gradually turned into a necessity rather than a luxury. However, one cannot deny that it is an expensive investment, and any damage to the car may cost you dearly. As per the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988, having at least a third-party liability motor insurance policy is mandatory in India to make your vehicle eligible to drive on the roads. Let us look at some of the reasons why insurance for a car is a must.

• Provides financial security: In case of an accident or theft, your insurance for the car will take care of the financial responsibilities arising due to damages to the vehicle or the treatment of the injured party.
• Fulfils the mandatory requirement: As mentioned above, third-party insurance is mandatory. If you are found driving the vehicle without this insurance, you might face legal repercussions.
• Covers for damages due to natural disasters: Car insurance policy also provides cover against damages due to natural disasters like floods, cyclones, earthquakes, etc.
• Get personal accident cover: When you buy a comprehensive car insurance policy, it provides protection against major or minor injury caused due to an accident. Tata AIG offers Personal Accident Cover of ₹15 lakhs. If the owner-driver dies in the accident, the amount is paid to a beneficiary selected.
• Access to an extensive network of garages: Tata AIG has over 7500 network garages across the country. This ensures you have cashless services in these areas and conveniently avail of repair services.
• Get cover in case of demise: The third-party liabilities car insurance also covers the death of a third-party person.

A Registration Certificate (R.C.) is a document that proves that your car is registered with the Government of India. This essential document must be renewed well before expiry to avoid any inconvenience. Similarly, ensure you have adequate motor insurance to protect yourself from financial challenges from an unfortunate accident.