Last updated: September 2026 – checked against the current Vahan application status and registration services.
After buying a new vehicle, or applying for a registration-related service such as re-registration in a new state, you’ll want to know when the permanent registration number and RC will be ready. This guide explains how to check your vehicle registration status on Vahan, what each stage means, how long it usually takes, and what to do if it’s delayed. If you want to check the details of a vehicle that’s already registered, see our guide to checking vehicle RC status instead.
How Vehicle Registration Works in India
Every motor vehicle used on public roads must be registered with the RTO, which issues a registration number and a Registration Certificate (RC) proving who owns it. For a new vehicle, the dealer usually handles registration on Vahan: they upload the sale invoice, insurance, PUC and your ID and address proof, and collect the road tax and registration fee. In many states, registration can now be completed at the dealership itself, so the permanent number is often allotted quickly and you may not need to visit the RTO at all.
If you take delivery before the permanent number is allotted, the dealer can issue a temporary registration, which is valid for one month. Driving on a temporary registration after it has lapsed, or without any registration at all, is an offence, so keep an eye on the status until the permanent number comes through.
How To Check Your Vehicle Registration Status Online
Once the permanent number has been allotted, you can also confirm it by searching that number on Know Your Vehicle Details or the mParivahan app, which will show your vehicle’s make, model and RC status.
What the Registration Stages Mean
| Stage | What it means |
|---|---|
| Application submitted / fee paid | The dealer or you have filed the application and paid the tax and fees. |
| Verification / inspection pending | The RTO is checking documents and, where required, the vehicle’s chassis and engine numbers. |
| Approved / number allotted | Your permanent registration number has been issued. The digital RC becomes available. |
| RC printed / dispatched | The smart card RC has been printed and sent by post. |
| Objection / rejected | Something needs correcting; the reason is shown on the portal. |
Stage names vary slightly between states, but the order is broadly the same everywhere.
How Long Registration Takes
For a new vehicle registered at the dealership, the permanent number is often allotted within a few days of purchase. The physical smart card RC takes longer, typically a few weeks, because it has to be printed and posted. You don’t need to wait for the card: once the registration is approved, the digital RC in DigiLocker or mParivahan is valid for showing to traffic police. Re-registrations of vehicles from another state, or applications that need an RTO inspection, usually take longer.
If Your Registration Is Delayed
Penalty for Driving an Unregistered Vehicle
Under the Motor Vehicles Act, driving a vehicle without valid registration can lead to a fine of up to ₹5,000 for a first offence and up to ₹10,000 for a repeat offence, and the vehicle can be detained. The same applies once a temporary registration has expired. Always carry your RC, either the smart card or the digital version. See our traffic fines list for other penalties.
RC Validity and Related Services
A private vehicle’s registration is valid for 15 years, after which it can be renewed for five years at a time, subject to a fitness check; see our RC renewal guide. If you want a specific number, you need to book it through Vahan’s fancy number service before registration. Later changes, such as a change of address in the RC or a duplicate RC, are also applied for and tracked through Vahan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check registration status without the application number?
The application number is the easiest way. If you don’t have it, ask the dealer, or search the chassis details through the RTO. Once a number is allotted, you can search it on Know Your Vehicle Details.
Can I drive my new vehicle before the RC card arrives?
Yes, once the permanent number is allotted and the number plate is fitted. Carry the digital RC from DigiLocker or mParivahan until the smart card arrives.
Can I get vehicle details by SMS?
SMS numbers for vehicle lookups still circulate on older websites, but they aren’t a reliable current method. Use the Vahan portal or the official mParivahan app instead.
Is checking registration status free?
Yes. Checking status on Vahan or mParivahan costs nothing.
Related guides: Vehicle RC Status, Parivahan Application Status, Vehicle Owner Details.