Buying a second-hand bike can save money — but only if you know what to check. This guide gives you a clear, step-by-step checklist for India, including the RTO paperwork and online verifications you must do before handing over money.

Quick checklist (summary)

1. Verify RC (Registration Certificate) & owner name
2. Check Parivahan / Vahan vehicle details online
3. Confirm insurance (valid & transferable)
4. Check PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificate
5. Verify engine & chassis numbers (VIN) match RC
6. Review service records & odometer history
7. Thorough test-ride & mechanical inspection
8. Check for loans, NOC, challans & tax dues
9. Complete sale documents (Form 29 & Form 30 / receipt)
10. Initiate RC transfer on Parivahan (online/offline)

1 — Verify the RC (Registration Certificate) and owner

Ask to see the original RC book (or e-RC). Verify the owner’s name matches the seller’s ID. Selling without the RC is a major red flag — you should not buy without it. Government guidance lists RC and related forms as mandatory for ownership transfer.
How to check quickly: Note the registration number and prepare to verify it online (next step).

2 — Check vehicle details on Parivahan / Vahan

Use the official Parivahan / Vahan portal to confirm vehicle owner details, registration status, and basic vehicle info by entering the registration number. This can reveal if registration is active, RTO details and other key info.

3 — Confirm valid insurance (and transferability)

Ensure the bike has valid motor insurance. If the policy is active, ask for the policy copy and confirm the policy number online or with the insurer. For a clean transfer, you’ll need to either get the insurer’s transfer process started or buy a new policy on the same day. Insurers and guides list insurance as essential for RC transfer.

4 — Check PUC (Pollution Under Control)

A valid PUC certificate is mandatory while transferring ownership or riding on road. Ask for a recent PUC and verify the emission readings where possible. PUC is commonly required during RC transfer and at RTO checks.

5 — Verify engine and chassis numbers (VIN)

Physically check the engine number and chassis (frame) number on the bike and make sure they exactly match the numbers in the RC and invoice. Any mismatch can indicate tampering or legal issues. Also verify this against Parivahan details.

6 — Review service history & odometer

Ask for the service book, invoices, and receipts. Consistent service records help confirm mileage authenticity and how well the bike was maintained. Sudden gaps or mismatched odometer readings are warning signs.

7 — Test-ride and mechanical inspection

Do a full test ride (carry your driving licence). During and after the ride, check:

• Brakes (front & rear)
• Clutch & gear shifts (smooth and no grinding)
• Engine idle and acceleration (no unusual noises)
• Leak checks (oil, coolant)
• Suspension and tire condition

If you’re unsure, get a trusted mechanic to inspect the bike before payment.

8 — Check loans, challans, road tax & NOC requirements

• Ensure the bike is loan-free. If the seller financed the bike, get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the bank or lender after loan closure.
• Check for any unpaid challans or pending dues via Parivahan or local RTO channels.
• If the vehicle was originally registered in another state, you’ll need an RTO NOC for inter-state transfer. Official RTO pages list NOC/Form 28 rules.

9 — Complete sale paperwork: Form 29 & Form 30 + sale receipt

For legal transfer you must:

• Fill and sign Form 29 (Notice of Transfer of Ownership) and Form 30 (Application for Transfer of Ownership) — both buyer and seller signatures required. Keep a stamped sale receipt with vehicle details, agreed price and ID proofs attached. RTOs and state transport pages list these as necessary documents for RC transfer.

10 — Initiate RC transfer (online via Parivahan or at RTO)

After purchase, initiate RC transfer immediately (online via Parivahan/Vahan or at the local RTO). Many states support online RC transfer where you upload Form 29/30, ID proofs, RC, insurance, and other attachments and pay the fee. After verification, the RTO issues updated RC in the buyer’s name — track via the portal. Guides (2025) recommend completing this promptly.

Extra tips to avoid scams

• Meet the seller during daylight and at their registered address (if possible).
• Don’t pay full amount before paperwork is complete — use a secure method (bank transfer with receipt), or escrow if available.
• Avoid deals that seem too good — check market values on BikeKharido and other marketplaces.
• Get a written receipt with seller’s contact details and signatures on all forms.