Purchasing a Used Bike from a Different State? Keep These Things in Mind

13 Things to Keep in Mind While Buying a Second-Hand Bike From a Different State

1. Verify All Documents Before Making Any Payment

   When you agree on the deal with the seller, the first step is to verify that all the bike documents are genuine and complete. Missing paperwork can delay or even block the ownership transfer at your state RTO.

   The essential documents include:

   • Original Registration Certificate (RC smart card)
   • Valid two-wheeler insurance policy
   • Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) for bike
   • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the original RTO
   • Road tax clearance proof
   • Ownership transfer forms (Form 29, 30, and in some cases Form 31)

   These documents ensure that the bike can be legally transferred from one state to another without future disputes.

2. Check the Validity of the Bike Insurance Policy

   A valid bike insurance policy is crucial when purchasing a used bike from another state. If the insurance has expired, you may not be able to transfer the ownership immediately, and riding the bike without insurance is illegal.

   Ask the seller for:

   • A copy of the current two-wheeler insurance policy
   • Details of any previous claims
   • No Claim Bonus (NCB) status

   Once the bike is transferred to your name, you must also transfer the bike insurance policy to your name. If the existing policy is not suitable, you can buy bike insurance online and get better coverage at a lower premium.

3. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Original RTO is Mandatory

   For inter-state transfer, the most critical document is the NOC from the RTO where the bike was originally registered.

   This certificate confirms that:

   • There are no pending bike challans
   • No theft record exists
   • No loan or legal dispute is attached to the bike
   • The RTO has no objection to transferring the bike to another state

   Without an NOC, your state RTO will refuse to process the RC transfer.

4. Understand the Role of Form 29, 30 and 31

   Ownership transfer of a used bike involves specific RTO forms:

   • Form 29 – Intimation to RTO about the sale of the bike
   • Form 30 – Application for ownership transfer (same state and interstate)
   • Form 31 – Used only if the original owner has passed away

   These forms act as legal proof that the bike is being transferred from the seller to you.

5. Original RC is Required for Ownership Transfer

   The original Registration Certificate (RC) is the primary ownership document of the bike. It contains important details such as the engine number, chassis number, registration date, and owner’s name. During the re-registration process in the new state, the RTO physically verifies these details with the vehicle.

   If the seller cannot provide the original RC, the ownership transfer cannot legally proceed. In such cases, you should ask the seller to first apply for a duplicate RC before moving ahead with the purchase.

6. Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC)

   A valid PUCC is necessary at the time of ownership transfer. It confirms that the bike meets pollution norms and is fit to be driven in your state. Without a valid PUCC, the RTO may reject the transfer application.

7. PAN Card, Address Proof and DOB Proof

   Both buyer and seller must provide identity proof during the RC transfer process. Usually required documents include:

   • PAN card (or Form 60 if PAN is not available)
   • Address proof of the buyer in the new state
   • Date of birth proof

   These documents are mandatory for RTO records.

8. Road Tax Clearance and Re-Registration in a New State

   When a bike moves from one state to another, road tax rules change.

   You must:

   • Obtain a road tax clearance certificate from the original state
   • Pay road tax again in the new state
   • Apply for a new registration number at your state RTO
   • Later, you can claim a refund of unused road tax from the original state, but this process takes time.

9. Verify the Legitimacy of the Seller

   Before proceeding, confirm that the seller is the bike's actual owner. You can verify ownership details through the government’s VAHAN database using the registration number.

   Avoid middlemen or brokers, as they may hide important information or charge unnecessary commission.

10. Always Take a Proper Test Ride

    A test ride reveals the bike's actual condition. Check:

    • Engine sound and pickup
    • Braking performance
    • Handling turns
    • Suspension condition
    • Clutch and gear smoothness
    • Do not rush this step.

11. Get the Bike Inspected by a Mechanic

    Before final payment, have the bike inspected to a trusted mechanic. Look for:

    • Engine condition
    • Oil leakage
    • Tyre grip and wear
    • Accident damage or repaint signs
    • Chassis alignment

    This small step can save you from costly repairs later.

12. Ask for Service Records

    Service history provides insight into how responsibly the previous owner maintained the bike. Regular servicing, timely oil changes, and authorised service centre visits indicate better care and potentially longer engine life.

    Request previous service bills or digital service records before closing the deal.

13. Update or Buy a Comprehensive Bike Insurance Plan

    Many used bikes only have basic third-party bike insurance. After ownership transfer, it is advisable to purchase a comprehensive bike insurance online that allows you to buy add-ons like zero depreciation cover, engine protection cover, roadside assistance cover, etc. 

    Buying bike insurance online from Policybazaar.com is usually a pocket friendly deal as it allows you to compare plans easily.

FAQs – Buying or Transferring a Bike from Another State