In India, the market for used two-wheelers is thriving, with numerous transactions taking place daily. When buying or selling a second-hand bike, it is crucial to complete the necessary paperwork to ensure a smooth transfer of ownership. 

Obtaining all necessary documents, like the two-wheeler third-party insurance papers and more, is vital when purchasing a used bike, as it not only enables the transfer of ownership but also safeguards your rights to the vehicle for future use or sale. 

This process involves transferring all rights associated with the vehicle to the new owner, making it essential to follow a detailed, step-by-step procedure. Read this post till the end to find out more about how to transfer bike ownership and bike transfer charges. 

 Understanding the Process of Transferring Bike Ownership 

When a pre-owned bike is sold, a bike RC transfer is necessary, which primarily involves the transfer of ownership, possession and legal rights and liabilities from the previous owner to the new one. In addition to the transfer of ownership, other mandatory requirements must be fulfilled during the process to ensure compliance with regulations. 

Bike ownership transfer is a legal process that results in the complete transfer of a vehicle’s rights to a new buyer. This procedure requires obtaining essential documents for the bike as well. Completing the necessary forms and obtaining relevant certificates facilitates the transfer process, leading to the issuance of a Transfer Vehicle Registration Certificate (TVRC). 

The TVRC is mandatory for owners of a second-hand bike, whether for riding it or purchasing a two-wheeler insurance policy. Bike ownership transfer can occur in two ways:

  • Intra-state transfer: This refers to the transfer of bike ownership within the same state. 
  • Inter-state transfer: This involves transferring bike ownership from one state to another. 

The transfer process involves two aspects:

  • Transfer from one Regional Transport Office (RTO) to another: This refers to the transfer of the bike’s registration from one RTO to another. 
  • Ownership transfer: This involves transferring the ownership of the bike from the seller to the new buyer.

 When is the Process of Transfer of Bike Ownership Required? 

Bike registration transfer can occur in three situations, as mentioned below: 

 Scenario 01: Transfer of Ownership in Normal Sale 

The purchaser’s name replaces the previous registered owner’s name, completing the ownership bike transfer process. 

 Scenario 02: Transfer of Ownership on Owner’s Death 

Upon the owner’s death, ownership is transferred to the legal heirs, who can use the vehicle for three months while informing the registering authority within 30 days. 

 Scenario 03: Transfer of Ownership on Vehicle Auction 

The purchaser’s name is noted as the registered owner, completing the ownership transfer process in case of a public auction. 

 List of Bike Transfer Documents Required 

The documents required for a bike transfer procedure can be broadly categorised into 3 parts:

  1. Basic Documentation:
  • Form 30
  • Registration Certificate (RC) Book
  • Pollution-Under-Control Certificate
  • Engine Pencil Print and Chassis
  • Address Proof Certificate
  • Passport Sized Photograph
  • Acknowledgement from Registering Authority (Postal)
  • Form 29
  • Form I
  • Bike Insurance Policy Certificate
  • Form 60 or PAN Card
  • Date of Birth Proof Certificate (Purchaser)
  • Undertaking of Purchaser
  • Clearance of Tax Certificate
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Registering Authority
  • Receipt of Registering Authority
  1. Additional Documentation (Owner’s Demise)
  • Death Certificate of the Vehicle Owner.
  • Self-Attested Certificate of Bike Insurance
  • Form 31
  • Succession Certificate issued by a Lawyer or Competent Authority
  • New Owner’s Age Proof
  1. Additional Documentation (RC Transfer and Bike Auction)
  • Form 32
  • Certificate of Auction
  • Certificate of Insurance
  • Submission of these bike transfer documents must be completed within 30 days of the auction. The buyer is responsible for fee payment unless specified otherwise during the sale.

 Bike Ownership Transfer Cost: RC Transfer Fees 

Bike TypeFees
Regular Bike₹30 – ₹35
Imported BikesUp to ₹100
Smart Card₹200

The Process of Transfer of Bike Ownership 

  1. Acquire a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current Regional Transport Office (RTO) to confirm the bike’s legal status and the current owner’s consent for the ownership transfer.
  2. Complete Form 29 and Form 30, essential for transferring ownership, available at the RTO office or online via the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways website.
  3. Submit Form 29, Form 30, NOC, original registration certificate, and required documents like ID and Address proof of the new owner.
  4. Pay the ownership transfer fee at the RTO office.
  5. The RTO will review the documents, process the application, and issue a new registration certificate in the new owner’s name upon approval. 

 Conclusion 

By understanding the details related to bike ownership transfer, you can ensure a seamless transaction when buying a used bike. This knowledge will help you navigate the bike transfer process with confidence, protecting your interests and ensuring a successful transfer of ownership. 

Moreover, to ensure that your bike is adequately protected post-transfer, go for online 2-wheeler insurance policies from reputable providers like Tata AIG. Online plans are much easier to maintain and considerably cheaper as well. 

 FAQs 

  • What is RC fees?

The registration fee for a new bike in India is typically around ₹300, but it may vary depending on the state and the type of two-wheeler.

  • What is the cost of RC renewal in India?

The RC renewal fee for motorcycles is typically around ₹300, while for other vehicles, such as non-transport LMVs, transport LMVs, medium goods vehicles, and more, the fees range from ₹600 to ₹5,000. 

By Manali