? Step 1: Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Before buying any premium used vehicle, its critical to inspect the paperwork and condition thoroughly.

✅ Document Verification Checklist:

Ensure the seller provides:

? Original RC (Registration Certificate) Engine chassis numbers must match the vehicle.

? Valid Insurance Prefer comprehensive cover; verify expiry and claim history.

? PUC (Pollution Under Control) Certificate Must be up to date.

? Road Tax Receipt To verify lifetime tax paid in Delhi.

? Full Service History Ideally from an authorized service center.

? Loan NOC (Form 35) If vehicle was financed earlier.

? Original Invoice Required for depreciation and resale value.

?️ Spare Key Ensure both keys are provided.

Forms to Collect:

? Form 28 Application for NOC from Delhi RTO.

? Form 29 Form 30 Ownership transfer forms.

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? Step 2: Physical Mechanical Vehicle Inspection

Make sure you or your mechanic inspects the vehicle comprehensively.

?️ Exterior Checks:

Body for dents, rust, or paint mismatches (accident signs).

Headlights, tail lamps, fog lamps ensure all lights function.

Windshield and mirrors no cracks.

Tyres check tread, cracks, and manufacturing year.

Doors check power windows, locking, and alignment.

? Interior Checks:

Seats, upholstery, roof liner ensure clean and intact.

AC/heater check all fan speeds and vents.

Infotainment system test Bluetooth, USB, AUX, speakers.

Dashboard electronics warning lights, indicators, etc.

Rear camera parking sensors (if available).

? Engine Bay Checks:

Engine oil level and color.

Coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid levels.

Battery brand, age, terminal corrosion.

Inspect for oil leaks or unusual sounds when idling.

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? Step 3: Test Drive Minimum 10 to 15 km

This is the most important test before purchasing.

Drive for at least 10 to 15 km on mixed roads city, highway, and inclines.

Watch Out For:

Smooth engine start (especially when cold).

Gear shifts smooth in both manual and automatic variants.

Suspension noise over bumps or potholes.

Steering feel check for pulling, vibration, or free play.

Brake response test sudden braking and ABS.

Air conditioning performance.

Any dashboard warning lights.

Engine overheating or fluctuations in temperature gauge.

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❓ Step 4: Ask These Critical Questions to the Seller

1. Why are you selling the vehicle?

2. Are you the first owner?

3. Has the car ever been in an accident or flood?

4. Is the insurance claim history clean?

5. Are there any mechanical or electrical issues?

6. What parts have been replaced recently?

7. Where was it serviced regularly?

8. Is the vehicle under any loan or lien?

9. Do you have both keys and the original manual?

10. Can you share the original invoice?

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? Step 5: Registration Transfer Delhi to Kerala

To legally drive in Kerala, you must transfer the vehicle's registration from Delhi to Kerala RTO. Here's how.

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✍️ Phase 1: Obtain NOC from Delhi RTO

Documents Needed:

Original RC

Valid insurance

Pollution certificate

3 copies of Form 28

PAN card copy

Sellers ID/address proof

✅ Visit the Delhi RTO and apply for No Objection Certificate (NOC)

⏱️ Processing Time: 715 working days

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? Phase 2: Pay Road Tax in Kerala

Once the vehicle arrives in Kerala:

Submit to Kerala RTO:

NOC from Delhi RTO

Original RC

Insurance copy

Kerala address proof

PAN card copy

Form 20 (application for registration)

Form 27 (request for new number)

Pollution certificate

Original invoice (used for tax calculation)

Passport-size photos

? Road tax in Kerala is calculated based on depreciated invoice value or IDV.

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? Phase 3: Vehicle Re-Registration in Kerala

The vehicle will undergo physical inspection at the Kerala RTO.

A new Kerala registration number will be issued.

You'll receive a new RC smart card once approved.

⏱️ Processing Time: Around 1020 days (varies by RTO)

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? Phase 4: Apply for Road Tax Refund from Delhi (Optional)

If eligible, you can claim a refund for the remaining tax from the Delhi RTO.

Required:

New Kerala RC

Delhi NOC

Kerala tax payment receipt

Application form

Identity/address proof

⚠️ Time: 36 months or more (based on processing and approval)

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? Complete Document Checklist

Document Source

Original RC Seller

Insurance copy Seller

Pollution Certificate Seller

Service history Seller

Loan NOC (Form 35) Seller/Financier

Original invoice Seller

PAN card Buyer

Kerala address proof Buyer

Passport-size photographs Buyer

Form 28 (NOC application) Buyer/Seller

Form 29, 30 (Ownership transfer) Buyer/Seller

Form 20, 27 (Kerala RTO forms) Buyer

Tax payment receipt (Kerala) Buyer

New Kerala RC Kerala RTO

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⚠️ Tips for a Smooth Process

Use Parivahan website to check for any pending challans or blacklisting.

Hire an RTO agent if you're unfamiliar with regional rules.

Complete transfer within 30 days of getting NOC.

Ensure seller gives both keys, manuals, and complete service history.

Do not skip road tax payment in Kerala it is mandatory regardless of previous tax paid in Delhi.

✅ Final Thoughts

Buying a premium used vehicle from Delhi and transferring it to Kerala is a smart choice when done with the right due diligence. By following this end-to-end guide from inspection to re-registration you can drive home your dream vehicle legally and confidently.