RC · 5 min read

How to Re-Register Your Vehicle in a New State (After Inter-State Move) | Vehicle Information

If you've moved to another Indian state for more than 12 months, the law requires you to re-register your vehicle in the new state. The process is straightforward but involves coordination between two RTOs (old state issues NOC, new state issues fresh RC).

In this guide
  1. Step 1 — Obtain NOC from old state RTO
  2. Step 2 — Visit new state RTO
  3. Step 3 — Pay road tax of new state
  4. Step 4 — Vehicle inspection
  5. Step 5 — Get new RC + plates
  6. Step 6 — Refund old state road tax
  7. FAQ

Step 1 — Obtain NOC from old state RTO

Apply with Form 28 at your previous RTO. Pay any tax dues. Police verification clears in 7-15 days. NOC issued and is valid for 6 months.

Step 2 — Visit new state RTO

Carry NOC + RC + Form 27 (assignment of new registration mark) + insurance + new address proof + chassis pencil rubbing + 2 photos.

Step 3 — Pay road tax of new state

New state charges its own road tax (calculated on vehicle age + value). Maharashtra and Karnataka are higher; Telangana, Tamil Nadu lower. Receipt issued immediately.

Step 4 — Vehicle inspection

Officer at new RTO inspects vehicle, matches chassis + engine numbers. Takes ~30 minutes. Submit forms if all OK.

Step 5 — Get new RC + plates

New registration number assigned within 7-30 days. Smart card RC dispatched by post. Get HSRP plates fitted at any authorised dealer (₹400-₹1100).

Step 6 — Refund old state road tax

Apply at old RTO with Form DT + new state RC copy. Pro-rata refund for unused period — usually credited within 60-90 days.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I avoid re-registering with BH series?
Yes — if you have a BH (Bharat) series plate, no inter-state re-registration needed. Currently available only to Central / State govt employees, defence personnel and PSU employees.
What's the deadline?
12 months from move. Driving on old state plates beyond this attracts penalty + impoundment.
Total cost?
Old state NOC ~₹500 + new state road tax (varies, often ₹10,000-₹50,000 for cars) + new RC fee ₹600 + smart card ₹200 + HSRP plates ₹500-₹1100.
What if NOC expires before re-registration?
Apply for fresh NOC. Old state may need to verify no new tax dues, but it's mostly automatic.
Does new RC reset vehicle age?
No — original manufacturing year stays. RC just shows a new number with new state code.
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