RTO India — Services, Fees & What They Do
The Regional Transport Office handles everything from new vehicle registration to driving licences, RC transfers, NOC, and fitness certificates. Here's what every service costs and how to get it done.
Updated May 2026
1,400+
RTOs across India
20+ services
Handled by each RTO
Parivahan
Online portal for most
RTOs operate under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. State transport departments issue supplementary rules - so fees and processes can vary significantly between states.
The Parivahan portal now supports online applications for DL, RC services, NOC, and more. You can book appointments, pay fees, and upload documents without visiting the RTO for initial submission.
Avoid RTO agents (touts) who claim to process paperwork faster for a fee. While RTO agents (registered facilitators) are legal and can genuinely help, unregistered touts are not and have no official standing. Verify an agent's registration before paying.
Your vehicle's RTO jurisdiction is linked to the address on your RC. If you move to a different state permanently, you must re-register the vehicle in the new state within 12 months, pay the new state's road tax, and surrender the old number plate.
How to Use RTO Services in India
Identify your RTO
Your vehicle is registered with the RTO of the district where you live. The first 2 letters of your vehicle number are the state code (MH = Maharashtra, DL = Delhi) and the next 2 digits are the district RTO code (MH-02 = Mumbai Central, DL-01 = Delhi North).
Check if the service is available online
Most RTO services are partially or fully available online via the Parivahan portal - driving licence applications, RC transfer, address change, NOC, hypothecation removal. Go online first; only visit physically if required.
Book an appointment (if required)
For DL tests, biometric capture, and vehicle inspection, you must book an appointment slot via the Parivahan/Sarathi portal. Walk-ins are not accepted for these services at most RTOs.
Prepare documents in advance
Collect all required documents before visiting. Most RTOs refuse applications with missing documents, requiring a repeat visit. Check the specific service's document list on the Parivahan portal before going.
Visit during off-peak hours
RTOs are typically busiest on Monday mornings and near month-ends. Visit mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) and after 11 AM for shorter queues. Counters typically open at 10 AM and stop accepting applications by 3 PM.
Commonly Required Documents at RTO
Aadhaar card
Accepted for ID + address proof everywhere
Original RC (for any RC-related service)
Photocopy not accepted
Valid insurance certificate
Checked for most vehicle-related services
Valid PUC certificate
Required for RC transfer and NOC
Passport-size photographs
2–4 copies; bring extras
Form as applicable
Forms 28/29/30/35 depending on service - available through the Parivahan portal
Common RTO Service Fees
| New vehicle registration (2-wheeler) | ₹300–600 | Collected by dealer at time of purchase |
| New vehicle registration (4-wheeler) | ₹600–1,500 | Varies by state and vehicle price |
| Learner's Licence | ₹150–200 | Per vehicle class |
| Permanent DL (per vehicle class) | ₹200–300 | Smart card DL |
| RC transfer of ownership | ₹300–600 | 4-wheelers, varies by state |
| NOC for vehicle (Form 28) | ₹300–500 | Required for inter-state transfer |
| Duplicate RC (lost/damaged) | ₹300–500 | Plus ₹200 smart card fee |
| Address change in RC/DL | ₹200–400 | Submit new address proof |
| Vehicle fitness certificate (heavy vehicles) | ₹200–600 | Annual renewal required |
Frequently Asked Questions
More Guides & Tools
Information sourced from official government portals - parivahan.gov.in, morth.nic.in. Process details and fees may vary by state. Verify with your local RTO before proceeding.