Drive Legally: Your Guide to Obtaining a Temporary Vehicle Registration Number
The excitement of buying a new car must be tempered by legal reality: before you can hit the road, you need a vehicle registration number. Under the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, driving without one is illegal and can lead to severe penalties. Since obtaining a permanent vehicle registration number can take time, applying for a Temporary Vehicle Registration Number is a mandatory, essential first step.
This comprehensive guide walks you through the features, process, and required documents for a temporary registration number, ensuring your new vehicle is legally compliant from day one.
🔑 Basics: What is a Temporary Registration Number?
A Temporary Vehicle Registration Number acts as a proxy identification code while you await the permanent alphanumeric code issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO). This number is non-negotiable for legal driving.
Key Features and Validity
Proxy Status: It is only valid until your permanent vehicle registration number is issued by the RTO.
Standard Validity: Typically, the temporary number is valid for a period of one month from the date of issuance. This time frame is intended to allow for the smooth assignment of the permanent number.
Extension Provision: Should there be an unavoidable delay in receiving the permanent registration, there are provisions to apply for an extension of the Temporary Vehicle Registration Number validity.
📝 How to Apply for a Temporary Vehicle Registration Number
Familiarizing yourself with the process is crucial to expedite your application and start driving sooner.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Obtain Application Form 20: The process begins with Form 20, which serves as the official application form. You can download this form online or obtain it directly from the RTO premises.
Submit the Application: Fill out Form 20 with all required details concerning you and the newly purchased vehicle. Submit this form, along with the required documents for a temporary registration number (listed below), to the RTO operating in your jurisdiction.
Dealer Submission (Alternative): Alternatively, you can submit the entire application set to your authorized vehicle dealer, provided the dealership is recognized by the Transport Commissioner.
Fee Payment and Issuance: The final step involves paying the prescribed fee to the RTO. Upon payment, the authority will release the Temporary Vehicle Registration Number for your vehicle.
Online Process via Parivahan
In several states and jurisdictions, the application process can be completed online:
Access the Parivahan website and input your details into the application form.
Upload the necessary required documents for a temporary registration number electronically.
After receiving an interim acknowledgment document, you will still need to visit the nearest RTO to pay the required fees and be officially assigned the temporary registration number.
📄 Required Documents for a Temporary Registration Number
A successful application hinges on providing a complete set of legal compliance documents.
Essential Legal Compliances
Form 20: The completed application form for the temporary number.
Form 21 (Sale Certificate): Outlining the details of the buyer, seller, and the vehicle itself.
Road Worthiness Certificate: Issued by the vehicle's manufacturer, attesting that the vehicle is fit to be driven on the roads.
Motor Insurance Certificate: Proof of mandatory third-party liability vehicle insurance coverage, as driving without car insurance is a legal violation.
Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate: Authenticates that your vehicle's emission levels comply with stipulated pollution control norms.
Address Proof: A copy of your official address proof (e.g., Aadhaar card, electricity bill).
Copy of PAN Card: Permanent Account Number (PAN) card copy. If unavailable, Form 60 & Form 61 must be submitted in its place.
🛑 Conclusion: Don't Risk Driving Illegally
Obtaining a Temporary Vehicle Registration Number is of utmost importance and a non-negotiable step in car registration. The process is straightforward, and diligent adherence to the steps and submission of all required documents for a temporary registration number will prevent unnecessary penalty charges and ensure you are legally prepared for the open road.