Kerala RTO Code List 2025 - All You Need to Know

What is RTO in Kerala, and why is it Important?

The Kerala RTO, governed by the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, oversees vehicle-related activities in the state. With over 86 RTOs and Sub-RTOs, it ensures compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, promoting road safety and efficient transport management. The RTO is crucial for issuing registration certificates (RC), driving licenses, collecting road taxes, and enforcing traffic regulations. For Kerala’s 3.46 crore population and 425 vehicles per 1,000 people, the RTO ensures a structured system for vehicle management, making it indispensable for legal and safe driving.

Key Functions of Kerala Motor Vehicles Department (MVD)

The Kerala MVD, led by the Transport Commissioner, handles several critical tasks:

• Vehicle Registration: Issuing and renewing registration certificates for new and used vehicles.

• Driving Licenses: Conducting tests and issuing learner’s and permanent licenses.

• Road Tax Collection: Managing taxes for private and commercial vehicles.

• Permits and Fitness Certificates: Issuing permits for commercial vehicles and ensuring vehicle roadworthiness.

• Traffic Enforcement: Implementing road safety measures and issuing e-challans for violations.

• Pollution Control: Conducting emission tests to meet environmental standards.

These functions ensure a safe, compliant, and efficient transport system across Kerala’s roads.

Kerala RTO Code List (District-wise)

Complete Kerala RTO Codes (KL-01 to KL-85)

Kerala’s vehicle registration plates start with KL followed by a two-digit code indicating the RTO or Sub-RTO where the vehicle is registered. Below is a table of district-wise RTO codes for 2025.

How to Identify Vehicle Registration Location Using RTO Code

The RTO code on a vehicle’s number plate (e.g., KL-07-AB-1234) indicates the registration location. The first two letters, KL, denote Kerala, while the next two digits (e.g., 07) specify the RTO, such as Ernakulam. The following letters and numbers are unique to the vehicle. You can verify the RTO location using the Parivahan portal by entering the registration number.

Vehicle Registration Process in Kerala

Temporary vs Permanent Registration in Kerala

• Temporary Registration: Issued by the dealer for new vehicles, valid for 30 days. Owners must obtain a permanent RC within this period.

• Permanent Registration: Valid for 15 years for private vehicles, renewable every 5 years thereafter. Commercial vehicles require annual renewals.

Step-by-Step Process for New Vehicle Registration

1. Visit the nearest RTO within 7 days of vehicle purchase.

2. Submit Form 20 (application for registration) along with required documents.

3. Provide Form 21 (sales certificate) and Form 22 (roadworthiness certificate).

4. Pay applicable registration fees and road tax.

5. Undergo vehicle inspection for chassis and engine numbers.

6. Receive a permanent RC (smart card or digital via DigiLocker/mParivahan).

Documents Required for Vehicle Registration

• Form 20 (application for registration) (click here to download)

• Form 21 (sales certificate) (click here to download)

• Form 22 (roadworthiness certificate)

• Valid insurance certificate

• Proof of address (Aadhaar, voter ID, etc.)

• Passport-size photos of the owner

• Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate

• Invoice of the vehicle

• For vehicles on loan, Form 35 and NOC from the financier

Other RTO Services in Kerala

Ownership Transfer and Re-registration Process

To transfer ownership (e.g., for used vehicles):

1. Submit Forms 29 and 30 (online or at RTO).

2. Provide RC, insurance, PUC, and address proof.

3. Obtain an NOC if the vehicle is from another state.

4. Pay applicable fees and taxes.

Applying for a Duplicate RC in Kerala

If the RC is lost:

1. File a police complaint.

2. Submit Form 26, FIR copy, insurance, PUC, and address proof.

3. Pay the duplicate RC fee at the RTO.

Vehicle Fitness Certificate and Permit Renewal

• Fitness Certificate: Required for commercial vehicles; private vehicles need inspection after 15 years. Submit Form 25, RC, insurance, and PUC.

• Permit Renewal: Apply for commercial vehicle permits via the RTO or Parivahan portal with Form 25 and supporting documents.

Kerala Road Tax, Fees & Penalties

Road Tax Slabs for Private Vehicles

Road tax for private vehicles is a one-time payment at registration, based on vehicle cost:

• Two-wheelers: 6-8% of vehicle cost

• Cars (up to ₹10 lakh): 10-13%

• Cars (above ₹10 lakh): 15-20%

Road Tax for Commercial Vehicles

Commercial vehicles pay annual taxes based on passenger capacity or weight:

• Taxis: ₹1,500-₹3,000 per seat annually

• Buses: ₹2,000-₹5,000 per seat annually

Common Traffic Fines and e-Challan Payments

Penalties for non-payment of road tax:

• First offense: ₹100

• Repeat offense: ₹200

• Post-grace period (15 days): 25-100% of tax amount
  e-Challans can be paid via the Parivahan portal (parivahan.gov.in/echallan).

Online RTO Services in Kerala

How to Use the Parivahan Portal for Kerala RTO Services

The Parivahan portal (parivahan.gov.in) offers:

1. Select Kerala and the desired service (e.g., tax payment, RC status).

2. Enter vehicle registration or application number.

3. Follow prompts to upload documents or make payments.

Online Vehicle Information, Challan, and Tax Payment

• Check RC status, owner details, or challans on Parivahan or mParivahan.

• Pay road tax online via the Online Tax Payment section on the Kerala MVD portal.

• Download payment receipts for records.

Kerala RTO Office Addresses and Contact Details

Major RTO Offices in Kerala with Timings

Most RTOs operate from 10:15 AM to 5:00 PM (lunch break: 1:15 PM–2:00 PM), Monday to Saturday. Refer to the table above for addresses and contacts.

How to Find Your Nearest RTO Office

Visit mvd.kerala.gov.in, navigate to the Directory section, or contact the helpline at 0471-2333317 for assistance.

New Rules and Updates in 2025

Bharat Series (BH) Registration in Kerala

The Bharat Series (BH) registration allows vehicles to operate across India without re-registration. Ideal for frequent travelers, it’s available for private vehicles and requires standard documents via the Parivahan portal.

Registering Vehicles Anywhere in Kerala (New Policy)

From 2025, vehicle owners can register at any RTO in Kerala, regardless of residence, streamlining the process for convenience.

AI Camera Enforcement and Safe Kerala Project

The Safe Kerala Project uses AI cameras to monitor traffic violations, issuing e-challans for offenses like speeding or not wearing helmets. Check challan status on parivahan.gov.in/echallan.

FAQs on Kerala RTO Codes & Vehicle Registration

Q1. How to Check Kerala Vehicle Registration Details Online?

Visit parivahan.gov.in, select Know Your Vehicle Details, enter the registration number, and submit to view RC status, owner details, and more.

Q2. Which RTO Code is for Ernakulam, Trivandrum, etc.?

The RTO codes for Ernakulam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Kozhikode are as follows-

• Ernakulam: KL-07

• Thiruvananthapuram: KL-01

• Kollam: KL-02

• Kozhikode: KL-11

Q3. How Long is Temporary Registration Valid in Kerala?

Temporary registration is valid for 30 days, during which owners must obtain a permanent RC.

Q4. Can I Pay Road Tax Online in Kerala?

Yes, use the Kerala MVD portal (mvd.kerala.gov.in) or Parivahan portal. Select Online Tax Payment, enter your vehicle details, and complete the payment.

Q5. What is the Process for Renewing a Driving License in Kerala?

Visit the Parivahan portal or RTO, submit Form 9, provide your existing license, address proof, and pay the renewal fee (₹200-₹400). Medical fitness certificates are required for those above 40.

Q6. How to Book a Fancy Number Plate in Kerala?

Register on mvd.kerala.gov.in for e-auction, select your preferred number, and bid. Pay the reserve price and registration fee upon winning.

Q7. What Happens if I Don’t Pay an e-Challan on Time?

Unpaid e-challans may lead to fines escalating to 25-100% of the original amount. Persistent non-payment can result in legal action or vehicle seizure.