Buying or selling a used car involves more than just the exchange of money and vehicle keys. One of the most important steps is transferring the ownership of the car to the new buyer’s name. In Kerala, the process is fairly straightforward if you follow the right procedure and keep the required documents ready. A proper transfer ensures that the new owner is legally responsible for the car, while the seller is free from future liabilities like accidents, fines, or traffic violations.
Why Car Ownership Transfer Is Important
Ownership transfer is more than a formality—it’s a legal obligation. If you sell your car without completing the transfer, it will remain registered in your name. This means you may be held accountable for penalties, accidents, or even criminal activities involving the car. Similarly, for buyers, updating ownership is essential to claim insurance, apply for loans, or resell the car in the future.
Step 1: Collect the Required Documents
To begin the car ownership transfer process in Kerala, both the buyer and seller must have the required documents prepared.
- Form 28 (No Objection Certificate) – required if the car has been financed through a bank or NBFC.
- Form 29 (Notice of Transfer of Ownership of a Motor Vehicle) – signed by the seller.
- Form 30 (Application for Intimation and Transfer of Ownership of a Motor Vehicle) – signed by both seller and buyer.
- RC (Registration Certificate) of the car.
- Valid insurance certificate.
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate.
- PAN card copies of buyer and seller.
- Passport-size photographs of the buyer.
- Address proof of the buyer (Aadhaar, voter ID, ration card, etc.).
If the car has an active loan, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the bank is required.
Step 2: Submit Application at the RTO
In Kerala, the ownership transfer process is handled by the Regional Transport Office (RTO). The application must be filed at the RTO where the vehicle is originally registered or at the RTO of the buyer’s residence. Both the buyer and seller may need to visit the RTO, although in many cases, the buyer can handle the process with signed documents.
Step 3: Pay the Applicable Fees
The buyer is required to pay a small fee to complete the ownership transfer. As of now, the fee in Kerala is usually:
- ₹150 for two-wheelers.
- ₹300 for cars.
If the vehicle is more than 15 years old, a small additional fee for renewal of registration may also apply. Always confirm the latest charges at your local RTO.
Step 4: Vehicle Verification
The RTO may conduct a physical inspection of the car to verify the chassis number and other details. This step ensures there are no discrepancies or tampering with the vehicle. In some cases, the inspection may not be required if all documents are clear and valid.
Step 5: Receive Updated RC
The ownership transfer is deemed complete once the RTO checks the documents and grants approval. The buyer will receive a new RC (Registration Certificate) card in their name. This process may take a few weeks depending on the workload of the RTO. Nowadays, many RTOs in Kerala issue smart card RCs, making it easier for owners to carry and present.
Online Process via Parivahan
In Kerala, car ownership can also be transferred online via the Parivahan Sewa portal.By logging into the site, you can fill out forms, upload documents, and pay fees digitally. However, a physical visit to the RTO may still be necessary for document verification and RC collection.
Tips for a Smooth Transfer
- Ensure that the insurance policy is transferred to the buyer’s name; otherwise, claims may be rejected.
- Sellers should keep a copy of Form 29 & 30 as proof of sale until the RC is updated.
- Clear any pending fines or challans before initiating the transfer.
- If selling to someone from outside Kerala, you may need to obtain an NOC from the RTO and complete re-registration in the buyer’s state.
Conclusion
The process of car ownership transfer in Kerala is simple, but it plays a vital role in safeguarding both parties involved in the transaction. With the right documents, timely submission, and fee payment, you can complete the procedure without stress. Whether you choose the offline RTO route or the online Parivahan system, ensure that the RC, insurance, and PUC are all updated in the new owner’s name. By doing so, you can drive—or sell—a car in Kerala with complete peace of mind.
If you are planning to buy used cars in Kerala, choose a certified used car dealership, so that you will get easy paperwork, proper vehicle inspection, hassle-free ownership transfer, and complete peace of mind.
