Method 1 — Vehicle Information App (Fastest)
Install the free Vehicle Information app from Google Play, type the vehicle number (e.g. MH 12 AB 1234) and tap 'Search'. RC details, owner name, fitness, insurance and PUC validity appear in seconds — no login needed.
Method 2 — Parivahan Sewa (Official Government Portal)
Go to parivahan.gov.in → 'Online Services' → 'Vehicle Related Services' → 'Know Your Vehicle Details'. Sign in with your mobile number, enter the registration number and captcha. Official record loads with masked owner name as per RTI rules.
Method 3 — mParivahan App (Government App)
Download the official mParivahan app (Google Play / App Store), open the 'RC Search' tab and enter the vehicle number. The app uses VAHAN database directly. May be slower than third-party apps during peak hours.
Method 4 — SMS (Old method, still works)
Send an SMS to 7738299899 in the format: VAHAN . You'll receive RC details, owner masked name, fuel type and registration date as a reply. Standard SMS charges apply.
Save time with Vehicle Information
Most lookups in this guide take 30 seconds in the app — no login, no fees.
Frequently asked questions
Is it legal to check someone else's RC online?
Yes — basic RC details (state, registration date, fuel type, model, fitness validity) are public information. Owner's name appears partially masked under the RTI Act, 2005. Full address is not shared with third parties.
Why does the owner name appear partially hidden?
After 2019, the Ministry of Road Transport masks the middle portion of the owner's name (e.g. 'San*** Nar***') to protect privacy. Buyers verifying a used vehicle can still match it against the seller's Aadhaar.
Can I get the owner's full address?
No, full address is no longer shared publicly through any official portal. The RTO can share it only on a written legal request (e.g. by police for an investigation).
What if my vehicle's data is wrong on Parivahan?
Visit your local RTO office with the original RC, ID proof and a written application requesting correction. The RTO will update VAHAN within 7-15 working days.
How current is the RC data?
VAHAN data updates within a few days of RTO action. Insurance/PUC may lag by 24-72 hours. For a fresh purchase, allow up to a week before checking.