Buying a used car can save money, but it also comes with risks. Many buyers fall into traps because they fail to verify the authenticity of the car. Hidden challans, expired insurance, fake documents, and even stolen vehicles are common scams.

To avoid these problems, you must verify vehicle registration details before making the purchase. The RTO vehicle details stored in government databases like Parivahan, VAHAN, and state RTO portals help you confirm whether the car is genuine and legally fit for sale.

This blog will guide you on how to check vehicle registration details and what to look for before buying a second-hand car.

Why Verifying Vehicle Registration Details is Important

1. Avoid Fraudulent Sales – Prevents purchase of stolen or blacklisted vehicles.

2. Confirm Ownership – Ensures the seller is the legal owner.

3. Check Loan Status – Some cars are hypothecated to banks/NBFCs.

4. Insurance Verification – Confirms validity for claims and renewal.

5. Challan & Dues Check – Avoids future penalties.

6. Transparency – Helps negotiate fair resale value.

What Are Vehicle Registration Details?

When you check RTO vehicle details, you access information such as:

• Registration number

• Owner’s name (masked for privacy)

• Registration date and validity

• Vehicle type, make, and model

• Engine and chassis numbers (partially masked)

• Fitness and roadworthiness certificate validity

• Insurance details

• Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate status

• Challan and tax payment history

This information is crucial for verifying the car’s background.

Step-by-Step Guide to Verify Vehicle Registration Details

1. Using Parivahan Portal

The Parivahan Sewa website is the most trusted platform.

Steps:

1. Visit parivahan.gov.in.

2. Go to “Online Services” → “Know Your Vehicle Details.”

3. Enter the car’s registration number.

4. Submit captcha and view details.

👉 Check insurance, fitness validity, challans, and ownership details here.

2. Using VAHAN Portal

The VAHAN National Register consolidates vehicle data from all states.

Steps:

1. Visit vahan.parivahan.gov.in.

2. Enter registration number.

3. View RC details, ownership info, tax, insurance, and fitness.

👉 Useful for cars that are registered in another state.

3. Using mParivahan App

The government’s mobile app lets you verify a car on the go.

Features:

• Quick vehicle detail lookup.

• Digital RC storage (legally valid).

• Insurance and challan verification.

👉 Handy when physically inspecting a used car.

4. Checking State RTO Websites

Some state transport departments provide detailed vehicle history.

Examples:

• Maharashtra – transport.maharashtra.gov.in

• Karnataka – transport.karnataka.gov.in

• Delhi – transport.delhi.gov.in

👉 Good for state-specific verifications.

5. Cross-Checking with DigiLocker

Ask the seller to show their digital RC on DigiLocker. This ensures the RC is authentic and linked with Aadhaar.

Additional Checks Beyond RC Verification

1. Insurance Status

• Verify expiry date.

• Check claim history via insurance company.

2. Challan Records

• Use Parivahan challan portal or state police websites.

• Ensure no unpaid fines.

3. Hypothecation Details

• Check if the car loan has been cleared.

• If hypothecated, ensure NOC from the bank is provided.

4. PUC Certificate

• Check whether the vehicle has a valid Pollution Under Control certificate.

5. Service History

• Ask for the car’s service history report.

• Confirms genuine mileage and condition.

Checklist Before Buying a Used Car

1. Verify RC details on Parivahan/VAHAN.

2. Match engine and chassis number with RC.

3. Check insurance and challan status.

4. Confirm loan clearance (if hypothecated).

5. Inspect service records.

6. Verify seller’s ID with RC details.

7. Draft a sale agreement with proper transfer of ownership.

Benefits of Verifying Vehicle Registration Details

• Safety: Avoid stolen cars.

• Legal Security: Ensures compliance with RTO laws.

• Fair Pricing: Genuine records help in valuation.

• Peace of Mind: Eliminates risk of hidden liabilities.

Conclusion

Verifying vehicle registration details before buying a used car is the smartest way to protect yourself from fraud. Platforms like Parivahan, VAHAN, mParivahan, and DigiLocker provide accurate RTO vehicle information. Along with RC verification, check insurance, challans, hypothecation, and service history to ensure a smooth and safe purchase.

When you cross-check all details, you not only save money but also secure peace of mind while making your second-hand car investment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Can I buy a car without verifying RC details?
No, it is risky and may result in fraud or legal trouble.

Q2. How do I know if a car loan is active?
RC records will show hypothecation details. Ensure the seller provides an NOC.

Q3. Are digital RCs valid during resale?
Yes, digital RCs on mParivahan/DigiLocker are legally valid.

Q4. Can I check accident history from RC details?
No, RC does not show accident history. For that, request a service record.

Q5. What if challans are unpaid on the car?
The new buyer becomes liable, so ensure the seller clears all fines.