1. Verify the registered owner
Use the Vehicle Information app → 'Owner Details' → match the visible first name with seller's Aadhaar / PAN. If they don't match, the seller is selling someone else's vehicle — walk away.
2. Check pending challans
App → 'Challan' tab. Pay all pending challans before transfer. Otherwise they pass to you and stop the new RC from being issued.
3. Verify chassis number
Open the bonnet (cars) or check frame near steering (bikes). The 17-character chassis must EXACTLY match the RC. Tampered chassis = stolen vehicle.
4. Engine number match
Stamped on engine block. Must match RC. Mismatch could mean engine was swapped — affects insurance and resale.
5. Check for hypothecation
RC shows 'HP' if vehicle is on loan. Without lender NOC, transfer cannot complete. Get NOC before paying full amount.
6. Insurance status
App shows current insurer + expiry. If expired or about to expire, factor renewal cost into your offer.
7. PUC certificate
Must be currently valid. Expired PUC = ₹10,000 fine the day you drive it home.
8. Fitness certificate (transport vehicles)
For commercial vehicles only. Without valid FC, the vehicle cannot legally carry goods or passengers.
9. Service history
Ask for service book / authorised dealer's record. Last 3 years of service records reveal accident history, major repairs and odometer accuracy.
10. Tax dues
Some states include road tax in resale price; others don't. Check 'tax paid up to' in RC. Pending tax becomes your liability.
11. Test drive 30+ minutes
Engine cold + warm + highway speeds. Listen for engine noise, gear smoothness, brake squeal. Take a mechanic if uncertain.
12. Get sale agreement on stamp paper
₹100 stamp paper, signed by both parties + 2 witnesses. Mention chassis, engine, RC number, sale amount, date. Without this, transfer is invalid.
Most lookups in this guide take 30 seconds in the app — no login, no fees.
