Has your vehicle's RC completed 15 years? Find out how to renew it, or else you will face a fine of ₹5,000..

If the 15-year validity period of your car, bike, or other vehicle's Registration Certificate (RC) has expired or is about to expire, it is crucial to renew it immediately. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, re-evaluation and a fitness test are mandatory for private vehicles that are 15 years old. Failure to renew the RC on time not only makes driving your vehicle on the road illegal but can also result in a hefty fine.

**Fine of ₹5,000 for not renewing the RC**
If the RC of your 15-year-old vehicle has expired and you are found driving it on the road, the traffic police can issue a challan (fine) of ₹5,000. Additionally, renewing the RC after it has expired incurs an extra monthly late fee. Furthermore, repeated violations—or driving 15-year-old petrol or 10-year-old diesel vehicles in areas like Delhi-NCR (where strict NGT rules apply)—can lead to the vehicle being seized immediately.

Most importantly, vehicle insurance becomes invalid without a valid RC; consequently, the insurance company will not provide any compensation in the event of an accident.

**Process for renewing the RC**
You can apply to renew your vehicle's RC through both online and offline methods.

First, visit the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways' official 'Parivahan' portal (parivahan.gov.in). Next, go to the 'Online Services' section and select 'Vehicle Related Services'. Choose your state and the relevant RTO. Select the 'Renewal of Registration' option and enter the vehicle's registration number and chassis number. Fill in all the details required in Form 25 and upload the necessary documents. Pay the prescribed fee online and download or print the appointment slip. After applying, visit the RTO office with your vehicle on the scheduled date for the fitness test.

Documents required for RC renewal
You need to have certain essential documents to renew your RC. These include the application form for registration renewal, the original RC, a valid insurance policy, a PUC certificate, a fitness certificate, proof of address and identity, and the road tax receipt.

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