Is your car nearing 15 years of use? You might be wondering whether to renew its registration or start exploring other options. Whether you want to keep your current car or switch to a well-maintained second-hand car, understanding the registration renewal process is important.
In India, car registration is mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Once your vehicle completes 15 years, the registration must be renewed to continue driving it legally. However, if the repair and renewal costs are adding up, it might be a good time to consider switching to a more reliable second-hand car. You can check your pre-approved used car loan offer from Bajaj Finance in just a few clicks and upgrade to a certified pre-owned vehicle without stretching your budget. With flexible financing options, minimal paperwork, and quick approval, financing a well-maintained used car has never been easier.
Let us explore how to renew your car registration and what options you can consider if your vehicle is too old.
Renewal of car registration after 15 years
According to Indian road laws, a private vehicle’s registration certificate (RC) stays valid for 15 years from the date of first registration. After that, it needs to be renewed every 5 years.
Here is how to renew your RC:
- Apply for the renewal before the expiry date.
- Collect the required documents (discussed below).
- Submit the application at your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).
- Pay the renewal fee.
- Book an appointment for vehicle inspection.
If your car is over 15 years old and showing signs of wear and tear, ask yourself: Is it worth the repair cost? In many cases, switching to a better-maintained second-hand car could be a smart move—especially when affordable used car financing is available.
Need help with financing? Check your loan eligibility with Bajaj Finserv Used Car Loan and plan your upgrade with manageable EMIs.
How to renew the RC if it is expired
Missed the deadline? If your RC has already expired, you can still get it renewed with a few steps:
- Visit your local RTO.
- Fill out the car registration renewal form.
- Submit your old RC and other documents.
- Pay the renewal fee.
- Book a vehicle inspection and bring your car to RTO on the allotted date.
Once your car passes the inspection, the RTO will issue a new RC. However, older vehicles might not always pass easily. If the inspection requires costly fixes or replacements, it may be better to purchase a newer used vehicle.
Pro-tip:
If your car is no longer eligible or economical to renew, you can explore certified used cars and apply for a Bajaj Finserv Used Car Loan to finance your next car purchase.
Documents required for renewal of RC
Before you start the process, ensure you have the following documents:
Document required |
Description |
Application form (Form 25) |
Standard form for RC renewal |
Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate |
Valid and updated certificate |
Fitness certificate (for commercial cars) |
Required for commercial or transport vehicles |
Original RC |
Existing registration certificate |
Road tax payment proof |
Ensure road tax is paid up to date |
Vehicle insurance |
Valid motor insurance policy |
PAN card copy / Form 60 or 61 |
Proof of identity |
Chassis and engine pencil print |
Required by RTO to verify vehicle details |
Owner’s signature identification |
Verification of the applicant’s identity |
These documents may vary slightly depending on your RTO’s local rules. Always check in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Importance of renewing RC
Renewing your car registration is not just a rule — it is essential for:
- Legal ownership and driving rights
- Avoiding fines and penalties
- Ensuring your car is fit and roadworthy
- Maintaining your car’s resale value
While renewing your RC keeps your current car legal on Indian roads, it might not always be the best financial decision—especially if your car is old and needs repairs often. In such cases, upgrading to a second-hand car could be a smarter choice.
Ready to explore your options? Check your pre-approved used car loan offer from Bajaj Finance and bring home a better, more reliable vehicle—without the burden of high upfront costs.
