Duplicate RC Delhi: How to Apply Online, Fees, Documents & Process (2026 Guide)

Your car has fuel, insurance, a valid PUC, and then there’s that one small card that proves it legally belongs to you. Lose the Registration Certificate, and everything suddenly feels stuck. A simple traffic stop becomes tense. Planning to sell your vehicle gets delayed. Even a routine document check turns into a headache. So, in Delhi, what should you actually do when your RC is lost, damaged, or stolen?

The good part is that the process is no longer as tiring as it once was. In 2026, most of the duplicate RC applications can be completed online. No endless queues, no unnecessary visits, just a structured process that needs the right information. But there are still a few details you can’t ignore. Do you need to file an FIR? What documents should be kept ready?

This guide walks you through everything step by step so you can get your duplicate RC in Delhi without confusion or delay.
 

What is a Duplicate RC Book?

Your RC is the Registration Certificate of your vehicle. It proves that your car or bike is registered with the Delhi transport department. It carries your name, vehicle number, engine and chassis number, fuel type, and other key details. Now, if the original RC goes missing or gets damaged, you don’t have to panic. You can apply for a duplicate RC.

A duplicate RC is simply a reissued copy of your original certificate. Nothing changes in your vehicle records. Ownership stays the same. Registration number stays the same. It’s just a fresh document issued by the RTO because the first one is no longer usable.

And yes, it is fully valid. You can use it during traffic checks, resale, insurance claims, or any official work related to your vehicle. In Delhi, the process is now mostly online, which makes things easier than before. Still, you need to know when exactly you should apply for one.
 

When Do You Need a Duplicate RC in Delhi?

There isn’t just one reason. In fact, most people apply for a duplicate RC due to simple, everyday situations. Here are the common ones.

• RC Lost Somewhere
  This is the most common case. You keep the RC in your car. Or maybe inside a document folder at home. Then one day you look for it and it’s just not there. You search properly. Check every place twice. Still nothing.
  If you’re sure it’s lost, you’ll need to file a police complaint first. In Delhi, an FIR or a complaint acknowledgment is required before applying for a duplicate RC. Driving without an RC can lead to fines during a traffic check. So once you know it’s not coming back, it’s better to start the replacement process quickly.
   
• RC Stolen
  This situation needs immediate action. If your wallet, bag, or car documents were stolen, your RC could be misused. Someone might try to use the details for the wrong reasons. That’s why filing an FIR is important here.
  After reporting it to the police, you can apply for a duplicate RC online. The transport department verifies the details before issuing the new copy. And this is also a good time to double-check your motor insurance documents. Missing paperwork can complicate claims later.
   
• RC Damaged or Torn
  Sometimes the RC isn’t lost, it's just worn out. Maybe it got soaked during the monsoon. Maybe it was folded too many times. Or the print faded and now the details are hard to read. If the information is unclear, it may not be accepted during verification. In that case, you should apply for a duplicate RC and submit the damaged copy to the RTO. It’s a simple fix. A clear, readable document avoids unnecessary arguments during inspections or resale.
   
• RC Not Received After Registration
  You bought a new vehicle, completed the registration process, but the RC never arrived. This can happen due to address errors or courier returns. Before applying again, check the RC status online through the Parivahan portal. Sometimes it shows as dispatched but returned.
  If it was never delivered, you can apply for a duplicate copy. Just make sure your address details are correct this time. And if you’ve recently shifted homes, update your address in official records first. That prevents future issues with RC, insurance papers, and other vehicle documents.

How to Apply for Duplicate RC in Delhi Online?

If you’d rather not stand in long RTO queues, the online route is the easier way. Delhi vehicle owners can apply through the Parivahan portal from home. Here’s how it usually goes:

• Step 1: Visit the official Parivahan website. Choose “Online Services” and then select “Vehicle Related Services.”



• Step 2: Enter your vehicle registration number and the system will pull up your vehicle details.
• Step 3: Select “Apply for Duplicate RC” and make sure the information shown on the screen matches your vehicle.
• Step 4: Fill in the reason - you’ll need to mention if the RC is lost, stolen, damaged, or not received.
• Step 5: Upload documents like your FIR copy (if lost or stolen), ID proof, and other required papers.
• Step 6: Pay the fee online. You can use net banking, debit card, or UPI.
• Step 7: Submit the application. After submission, you’ll get an acknowledgment number. Keep it safe so you can track the status later. Once approved, the duplicate RC is usually sent to your registered address.

How to Apply for Duplicate RC in Delhi Offline?

Some people still prefer visiting the RTO in person. And that’s perfectly fine. Here’s how the offline process works:

• Step 1: Visit your local RTO in Delhi and carry all required documents with you.
• Step 2: Fill out Form 26 application form for a duplicate RC.
• Step 3: Attach supporting documents. If the RC was lost or stolen, attach a copy of the FIR. If damaged, carry the original damaged RC.
• Step 4: Submit the application and pay the fee.
• Step 5: Collect acknowledgment receipt and use this to track the status.

After verification, the duplicate RC is issued and sent to your registered address. The offline method takes more time and effort, but for some, it feels more reliable since they can speak directly to the officials.
 

Duplicate RC Fees in Delhi 2026

The duplicate RC fees in Delhi depend on the type of vehicle you own. These charges are set by the transport department and may change if rules are updated. Here’s a simple breakdown of the current RC duplicate charges Delhi vehicle owners generally pay:

Please note that these are base charges. Additional service or smart card fees may apply in some cases. Before making payment, always check the latest amount on the official portal, as government charges can change.
 

Duplicate RC Processing Time in Delhi (Online & Offline)

Once you apply, the next question is obvious. How long will it take? For online applications, here’s the usual flow:

• Application submission and fee payment
• Document verification by RTO
• Approval and printing of RC
• Dispatch to registered address

If everything is correct, it generally takes around 7 to 15 working days. Delays can happen if documents are unclear or verification raises questions.

For offline applications, the steps are similar:

• Form submission at RTO
• Manual document verification
• Approval by the authority
• Printing and dispatch

This may take slightly longer, depending on the RTO workload. You can track the status online using your application number.
 

Documents Required for Duplicate RC in Delhi (Online & Offline)

Whether you apply online or offline, the documents remain mostly the same. Here’s what you’ll usually need:

• Application Form 26
• Copy of FIR (if RC is lost or stolen)
• Original damaged RC (if applicable)
• Valid identity proof
• Address proof
• Insurance certificate copy
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
• Challan clearance, if any pending

If the vehicle is under a loan, you may also need a No Objection Certificate from the financier.

Keep scanned copies ready for online submission. For offline visits, carry both originals and photocopies. It may look like a long list. But once everything is in place, the process is fairly manageable.
 

How to Check Duplicate RC Application Status in Delhi?

After you apply, the waiting starts. And naturally, you’ll want to know what’s happening in the background. The good part is you don’t have to call anyone or visit the RTO just to check. Here’s what you can do:

• Go to the Parivahan website
• Select “Vehicle Related Services”
• Enter your vehicle number
• Click on “Application Status”
• Add your application number if asked and click on “Submit”

You’ll see the current stage of your request. It might say under process, approved, or dispatched. If it stays stuck for too long, it’s usually because of a document issue. Sometimes a blurry upload or missing detail slows things down. In that case, checking the portal carefully helps.
 

How to Download Duplicate RC Online in Delhi?

Once your application is approved, you don’t always need to wait for the physical card to arrive. You can access a digital version. Here’s the basic flow:

• Visit the Parivahan portal
• Log in using your vehicle details
• Check the approved application
• Download the available RC copy

You can also use DigiLocker or the mParivahan app. After logging in, your vehicle details should show up if linked correctly. It’s smart to keep a soft copy saved on your phone. During traffic checks, digital documents are accepted. Still, the physical smart card will be sent to your registered address. So make sure that address is accurate.
 

Common Problems While Getting a Duplicate RC and Solutions

Things don’t always move smoothly. Small issues can delay approval. Here’s what people usually run into.

Most of the time, it’s something minor. Taking your time while filling the form avoids repeat visits.
 

Expert Tip: How to Avoid Losing RC in Future

Let’s be practical. RCs get lost because they’re kept casually. Some simple habits help:

• Keep the original at home in a proper folder.
• Don’t leave it loose in your car.
• Save a scanned copy in your email or secure storage.
• Use DigiLocker so you always have access.
• Update your address quickly if you move.

And keep your vehicle papers together. RC, insurance, PUC. When everything stays in one place, it’s easier to manage.

 
 

Wrapping Up,

Losing your RC can throw you off for a few days. You search everywhere, you replay the last time you saw it and then you accept it’s gone. The good news is this. Getting a duplicate RC in Delhi is not complicated anymore. You can apply online, upload your documents, pay the fee, and track the status from home. If you prefer the old way, the RTO route is still open.

The key is simple. File an FIR if required, keep your documents ready and make sure your address is correct. Also, keep your vehicle papers organised. RC, insurance, PUC. Staying updated saves time later.

FAQs