? 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.
