How to Verify a Used Car's RC Online
A quick guide to checking a car's registration details online before you commit to buying it.
3 min read · Updated 14 Oct 2026
Key Takeaways
- The government's Parivahan portal allows a basic registration number lookup showing details like registration date, vehicle class, fuel type and fitness/insurance validity — a useful independent cross-check against what the seller has told you
- Physically check the engine and chassis numbers stamped on the car against the RC document itself — a mismatch is a serious red flag that should stop the transaction until fully explained and resolved
- The RC should clearly show whether a lender hypothecation is still active — if the seller claims the loan is closed but the RC still shows hypothecation, ask to see the NOC and confirm the RTO update has actually been completed
Verifying a car's RC details independently, before you buy, takes a few minutes and can surface real red flags.
On This Page
1. What You Can Check Via the Parivahan Portal
The government's Parivahan portal allows a basic registration number lookup showing details like registration date, vehicle class, fuel type and fitness/insurance validity — a useful independent cross-check against what the seller has told you.
2. Matching the Engine and Chassis Numbers
Physically check the engine and chassis numbers stamped on the car against the RC document itself — a mismatch is a serious red flag that should stop the transaction until fully explained and resolved.
3. Checking Hypothecation Status
The RC should clearly show whether a lender hypothecation is still active — if the seller claims the loan is closed but the RC still shows hypothecation, ask to see the NOC and confirm the RTO update has actually been completed.
4. Cross-Reference With Insurance and PUC
The registration number, owner name and vehicle details on the insurance policy and PUC certificate should all match the RC exactly — any discrepancy is worth a direct, clear explanation before you proceed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Parivahan portal free to use for this kind of check?
Yes, basic registration lookups are free and do not require special access.
What if the seller's name does not match the RC exactly?
This needs a clear explanation — it could be a simple prior unrecorded transfer, or something more concerning, and is worth resolving before you proceed.
Can I verify a car's full accident history online?
Not comprehensively through free government portals — this is better covered through a proper physical inspection and insurance claim history discussion.