In India, it is mandatory for motorists to register their bikes with the Regional Transport Office (RTO) of the state where they reside or intend to ride their vehicle. Therefore, when one moves from another state, he/she needs to re-register with that state’s RTO. The process varies slightly based on whether you transfer your bike permanently or temporarily.

Regardless, here’s the process to re-register a bike with the RTO for an intercity bike transfer:

  1. Obtain NOC

The first step is to get hold of a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the RTO office with which your bike was initially registered. Moreover, this requires you to submit Form 28 to this office. In addition, if you had purchased your bike with the assistance of a bank or financial institution, you will need NOC from them as well.

Nonetheless, to obtain a NOC, you need to possess the Emission test certificate or PUC certificate (Pollution under Control). It is a mandatory document and as important as having an active bike insurance policy. Some of the other documents crucial to obtaining a NOC for intercity bike transfer are an attested copy of your bike’s Registration Certificate (RC) as well as an attested copy of the bike’s insurance policy. Alongside, you also need the recent tax payment receipts, a copy of the chassis number and the engine number and the owner’s photo identity and address proof. Besides these, you also need the vehicle owner’s identification of signature.

  1. Transfer the Vehicle

Now that one has NOC from the issuing RTO, the next step is to move the bike from one state to another.

  1. Visit the New State RTO

Next up, an individual needs to reach out to the RTO of the new state. One needs to visit the RTO in his/her jurisdiction and submit an application.

  1. Pay the Road Challan Tax

To ride your bike in the new state, you must pay the applicable tax. For this, the RTO office in your district will issue a road tax challan, according to which you will be paying the required charges.

  1. Verification of the vehicle

Verification of a vehicle involves its evaluation in the presence of an RTO officer. Moreover, officials will take an imprint of the chassis number. 

  1. Registration Certificate

A registration certificate is issued as the verification process is complete. You are given a particular date to visit the RTO and acquire this certificate.

Essentials Necessary for Re-Registration of the Bike

  • Documents Required for the Bike Re-Registration

Bike re-registration calls for one to furnish the following documents:

  • Form 20 is necessary to apply for a permanent registration number of a vehicle
  • Form 27 to apply for re-number or assignment of new registration mark for a bike
  • Copy of Valid and Duly Attested Bike Insurance
  • Bike’s previous Registration Certificate (original copy)
  • Copy of PAN or Form 60 and Form 61
  • 3 Copies of the RTO-Issued NOC or Form 28
  • Attested Copy of the Current Address Proof
  • Copy of Pollution Under Control Certificate or PUC Certificate
  • Registration for a Temporary Transfer

If you are relocating to another state for a period of less than a year, there is no need to re-register your bike. However, when planning to move to a different state for over a year, re-registration with its RTO is a must.

  • Claim the Road Tax Refund

It may happen that the road tax payable in one’s previous state is higher than that of the new one. In such a circumstance, you can claim a refund. However, you must note here that before making such a claim, your bike must be successfully re-registered with the new state. Additionally, you can only file for a refund if you are the vehicle’s owner.

The process of relocating to a new location can be exhausting. Add to that the hassle of transferring your two-wheeler and it might get even more difficult. However, we hope that with this article, you need not worry about the procedure to transfer your bike to another state. 

So, bear the above-mentioned points in mind and ensure a seamless re-registration process. From keeping the original copy of the Previous Registration Certificate to your bike’s Pollution Under Control certificate, make sure all such necessary documents are with you prior to the transfer.

What Happens if You Drive a Vehicle Without RC Transfer?

Like any vehicle owner is not allowed to drive on the road without a valid two-wheeler insurance policy, similarly a Registration Certificate is also mandatory to drive a bike in India. It is also applicable when you relocate to a new city or even cross the state border. 

If you are found riding a bike without transferring an RC even after one year, the traffic police can 

  • Penalise you with applicable fine (The fees vary across cities) 
  • Detain your bike 

Hence, it is necessary to transfer the Registration Certificate of your bike to avoid legal pitfalls.