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How to Register Your New Car by Yourself?
Once you've bought a new car, you need to register it before you can take it for a spin. While many people let their car dealer or agent take care of the registration, you can also do that yourself, saving yourself some bucks on an additional service charge. You may be wondering how to register a new car on your own.
This guide walks you through all the steps to ensure a smooth registration process for your car. Continue reading to discover how to register your new car by yourself.
Table of Contents
What is Car Registration & Why is it Important?
What is Car Registration & Why is it Important?
Registration of a car entails providing information about your vehicle at the official Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The government assigns the car a specific license plate and an authentic certificate for registration.Â
Car registration is a legally binding requirement in most countries, proving that your vehicle is roadworthy and can operate on public highways. Registration helps keep track of vehicles during safety inspections and emissions tests.Â
It plays a significant role in locating the car if it is involved in an accident, stolen, or found to violate any environmental law. In addition, car registration provides access to various public services, such as road maintenance and insurance, making it essential for legal and practical reasons.
Documents Needed for New Car Registration
You need valid documents to register your car. Here are two types of documents you need to produce for car registration:
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Documents to be Collected from the Car Dealer
Below is a list of the documents that you must collect from the showroom where you purchased the car:
After collecting the above documents from the car showroom, you can register. However, you will need to carry additional documents to register your new car at the RTO. Below are the additional documents you must submit to initiate the car registration process.
Additional Documents to be Submitted at the RTO
Apart from the above-mentioned documents, you may need to submit a few additional documents at the RTO office, including:
Note: The list of required documents may vary by state.
Steps to Register New Car By Yourself
Registering your new car by yourself can be straightforward if you follow the necessary steps. Here's a simple guide to help you through it:
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How to Calculate Car Registration Fees?
The registration fees in India depend on the type of vehicle, its engine capacity, and the cost. The fee is typically calculated based on the vehicle's ex-showroom price and engine capacity. These typically include extra levies calculated based on vehicle weight, fuel type (petrol or diesel/electric), and age if the vehicle is used.Â
Furthermore, there is road tax with varying rates in different provinces, alongside fees for a license plate, a motor vehicle emission test, and general auto insurance policies.Â
For Example:
Base registration fee: ₹3,000
Vehicle weight surcharge (for vehicles over 1,500 kg): ₹1,500
Emission test fee: ₹500
License plate fee: ₹200
By adding all the above fees, your total registration cost is ₹5,200
Note: Please note that the above is an example only. Actual registration fees vary from state to state. It depends on the vehicle type and specific local charges applicable to your city. Consult with your local RTO for the actual fees applicable in your area.
Pro Tips to Make Your Car Registration Process Hassle-Free
Pro Tips to Make Your Car Registration Process Hassle-Free
Be well-prepared and informed to ensure a smooth and stress-free car registration process. Here are some pro tips to help you navigate the registration steps easily:
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Prepare Your Documents in Advance: Ensure you have all the necessary documents for the registration office. These include proof of ownership. Keep the bill of sale or title, proof of identity, insurance proof, etc.
Check Your Local Requirements: Requirements will differ depending on your state or country. Look into local requirements. Visit your DMV website or the website of your registration location to determine the fees.
Be Mindful of Emissions and Safety Tests: Many regions require vehicles to pass an emissions test and safety inspection before registration. Ensure that your vehicle meets these standards before applying for registration.
Verify Your Vehicle Information: Before filing your registration forms, carefully check that all information about your vehicle is accurate, including its make, model, VIN, and mileage. Any minor mistake could cause many problems or delays in registration.
Consider Registering Your Car Online: Registering your car online can save you a significant amount of time. Many agencies offer this convenient service, allowing customers to process transactions from the comfort of their own homes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Car Registration
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Car Registration
When registering your car, it is easy to make mistakes that can delay the process or lead to unnecessary complications. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
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- Missing or Incorrect Documentation: The most common mistake is failing to bring all necessary documents or providing incorrect information. Ensure you have everything necessary. You must have proof of ownership, insurance, and personal identification.
- Failure to Pass Emissions and Safety Inspections: Many states require a valid emissions or safety inspection certificate before registration. Failure to do so might cause delays or rejection of your registration.
- Failure to Check Local Requirements: Registration requirements vary by location. Assuming the process is the same everywhere, you will likely make mistakes. Be sure to familiarise yourself with your local rules, including registration fees and other relevant details.
- Not Registering On Time: Failure to register your automobile within the set time usually attracts fines or penalties. Track the days for registration renewal or for newly registering a car. Renew before they expire.
How Long Does the Registration Process Take?
How Long Does the Registration Process Take?
The car registration typically takes 2-3 days, depending on the mode of registration and your location. Depending on your place and the number of people rushing into that office, you typically spend a few hours in person for car registration at the DMV. However, in states where online registration is available, it is typically completed in minutes to a few days.Â
After your registration has been processed, you can obtain your registration certificate and license plates immediately or within a few weeks by mail, depending on the office's procedures and workload at the time. One should allow sufficient time and be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak periods.
Online vs Offline Car Registration: Which is Better?
The method you select for registering your car typically depends on your convenience. Every method has its merits and demerits. The table below shows a detailed comparison between the two:
Registering your new car should be a stress-free process. You can efficiently and independently complete the registration by following the steps and having the essential documents readily available. Whether you choose online or offline registration, having the right knowledge would make the whole thing much more manageable.