What paperwork do you actually need?

Pick what you're doing — the exact forms and documents show up below. Same list applies to bikes and cars unless noted.

The forms, decoded

Form 29 — Notice of Transfer

Filed by the seller, in duplicate, to formally notify the RTO that the vehicle has changed hands. This is what protects the seller from being legally tied to challans or accidents the new owner causes after the sale — so filing it on time matters to the seller as much as the buyer.

Form 30 — Application for Transfer of Ownership

Signed jointly by both buyer and seller, this is the actual request to the RTO to update the Registration Certificate into the new owner's name. Form 29 and Form 30 are usually submitted together.

Form 28 — No Objection Certificate (NOC)

Needed only for an interstate transfer. Issued by the vehicle's original RTO, it confirms there's no objection to the vehicle being re-registered in a different state. Without it, the new state's RTO cannot register the vehicle at all.

Form 33 — Change of Address / Particulars

Used to update your address (or certain other particulars) on an existing RC without a change of ownership. Also the form referenced when notifying the RTO of some vehicle modifications, like a colour change.

Form 35 — Notice of Hypothecation / Its Termination

Relevant only if the vehicle was bought on loan. It records — or removes — the financier's legal claim on the vehicle. If you're buying a used vehicle that was financed, get proof the loan is fully closed before you proceed.