Regional Transport Office (RTO) Codes in India (2025): State-Wise List & More

What is RTO (Regional Transport Office)

Meaning and Full Form of RTO

RTO, short for the Regional Transport Office, is a government department that falls under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). It handles the entire operations of the vehicle industry. Its main role is to issue vehicle registration, driving licences, enforce traffic laws, and collect road taxes within a specific region or state.

Every vehicle registered in India must go through the RTO. The RTO also keeps track of the ownership, fitness, insurance, and pollution status of every registered vehicle. Let us understand RTO codes. 

Key Functions of RTO in India

Issuing Driving Licences

RTOs handle the entire process of issuing driving licences. This includes conducting learners' tests, skill-based driving tests, and issuing international driving permits. The process is standardized but slightly varies across states. Driving schools are also certified and monitored by the RTO.

Collection of Road Tax

Motor vehicle tax or commonly called road tax, is levied and collected by the state government at the RTO. It is paid during the registration of the vehicle or at regular intervals, depending on the vehicle type. Road tax is utilized for funding road construction and maintenance.

Implementation of Traffic Rules and Road Safety

RTOs operate per the traffic police and other enforcement agencies. They make sure vehicles of transport maintain standards of safety, i.e., usage of seatbelts, speed limits, and traffic lights. Defaulters are penalized, their license suspended, or their vehicle is seized.

Pollution & Fitness Certification

For controlling pollution levels, RTOs issue PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificates. Commercial vehicles also require a fitness certificate, which is a roadworthiness certificate. These checks help reduce the environmental harm caused by emissions.

Vehicle Registration

Vehicle registration is a must for running any vehicle on Indian roads. RTOs maintain records of ownership details, engine and chassis numbers, and insurance records very carefully. This process includes:

Vehicle Registration Process at RTO:

You have to visit the RTO with documents such as Form 20 (application), proof of insurance, invoice, roadworthiness certificate, and address proof. A physical check of the vehicle can be carried out before the issue of the Registration Certificate (RC).

Transfer of RC from One State to Another:

If you change your car to another state for over 12 months, then you must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the original RTO. Once the NOC is approved, you must pay road tax to the other state to get the RC reprinted.

Transfer of Vehicle Ownership: 

You must pay road tax to the new state and get the RC reprinted.

If you sell your vehicle or transfer it to family members, the ownership must be registered in the RTO records. Provide Forms 29 and 30 along with ID proof, insurance, RC, and address proof. The RTO makes changes in the RC to indicate the new owner.

State-Wise RTO Codes List in India (2025 Updated)

Each Indian state and union territory has specific RTO codes that begin a vehicle’s registration number. These codes help identify where the vehicle was registered. Below is a state-wise breakdown:

RTO Forms

• List of Common RTO Forms:

• Form 20 - Application for vehicle registration

• Form 21 - Sales certificate

• Form 29 - Notice of transfer of ownership

• Form 30 - Report of transfer of ownership

• Form 38 - Inspection report

• Form 60 - PAN declaration

• How to Download RTO Forms:

Step 1: Visit the official Parivahan Sewa portal: https://parivahan.gov.in.
Step 2: Go to the Downloadable Forms section.
Step 3: Select your form, and download it in PDF format.

Forms are also available at local RTO offices.

How to Register a Vehicle at an RTO Office

Step-by-Step Registration Process

1. Visit the RTO or register via a dealer.

2. Submit a filled Form 20, sales invoice, and insurance papers.

3. Provide proof of identity and address.

4. Pay applicable road tax and registration fees.

5. Get the vehicle inspected.

6. Collect your RC card with registration number.

Required Documents

• Duly filled Form 20

• Sales certificate (Form 21)

• Roadworthiness certificate (Form 22)

• Insurance policy document

• Proof of address (Aadhar, electricity bill, etc.)

• PAN card/Form 60

• Passport-sized photographs

Fees & Charges (Complete Table)

How to Check Vehicle Registration Details Online

Through the VAHAN Website

1. Visit https://vahan.parivahan.gov.in
   

2. Click Know Your Vehicle Details.

3. Enter vehicle number and captcha code

4. View RC status, owner name (partially), registration date, etc.

Using the mParivahan App

• Download from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store

• Enter your vehicle number

• Access complete registration, insurance, and fitness details

SMS Method for Basic Info

• Send: VAHAN <Vehicle Number> to 7738299899

• Example: VAHAN MH12DE1433

• Get basic details instantly on your phone

How To Get a Unique Registration Number For Your Vehicle

Fancy or VIP registration numbers like 0001, 0786, 9999 are auctioned by the RTO. You can apply online through your state’s transport portal. Prices vary significantly based on demand. Some states allow booking during vehicle registration itself.

BH Number Plate

BH (Bharat Series) number plate is for private vehicles of employees who often relocate across states. It simplifies re-registration. It looks like - 22 BH 1234 AB.

Eligibility:

• Central and state government employees

• Private sector employees with offices in more than four states/UTs

Benefits:

• No need for re-registration while moving states

• Uniform road tax charged biennially

Also Read- How to Convert Your Existing Car or Bike to a BH Series Number Plate in India

Know More About RTO Code (FAQs)

Q1. What is an RTO code?

It’s the unique identifier of a regional transport office. For example, DL stands for Delhi, MH for Maharashtra. These codes are part of every registered vehicle’s number plate and indicate where it was registered.

Q2. Can I transfer my vehicle registration to another state?

Yes. You’ll need an NOC from your current RTO, pay road tax in the new state, and apply for re-registration. The new state will issue a fresh RC based on local regulations.

Q3. What is the difference between RTO and DTO?

DTO is the District Transport Office. It functions like RTO but at a district level. In many states, the duties are the same, but the naming convention varies.

Q4. How can I apply for a BH number plate?

Through your vehicle dealer or the official portal. You must be eligible, like being a government or private sector employee with frequent transfers. Required documents must be submitted for approval.

Q5. Is it mandatory to carry a physical RC card?

No. Digital RC on mParivahan or DigiLocker is valid under Indian law. You can show it during checks and avoid penalties for not carrying physical documents.

Q6. Where do I get vehicle-related forms?

On https://parivahan.gov.in or at your nearest RTO office. Forms can be downloaded in PDF format and submitted offline or online.

Q7. How long does vehicle registration take?

Usually 5–7 working days after submission of documents and vehicle inspection. Delays can happen if documents are incomplete or during festive seasons.

Q8. What is Form 29 used for?

Form 29 is a notice form submitted to inform the RTO about a vehicle's ownership transfer. It must be submitted by the seller before the buyer applies for an updated RC.

Q9. Can I reserve a fancy number for my car?

Yes, VIP numbers can be booked online or auctioned by the RTO. Charges vary from state to state and depend on the number’s popularity.

Q10. What is a PUC certificate, and why is it needed?

PUC (Pollution Under Control) ensures your vehicle complies with emission standards. It’s mandatory for all vehicles and must be renewed periodically to avoid penalties.