RC Book vs Smart Card vs Virtual RC: What’s the Difference and Which One is Legally Valid?

Whether you're a new vehicle owner or someone updating documents, understanding the types of vehicle registration certificates (RC) is essential. In India, the RC has evolved over the years—from the traditional RC Book to the modern Smart Card RC, and now, the Virtual RC stored on your smartphone.

In this blog, we’ll explain the difference between RC Book, RC Smart Card and Virtual RC, compare their advantages, and clarify which one is legally accepted on Indian roads in 2025.

What is an RC Book?

The RC Book is the original format of the Registration Certificate issued when a vehicle is registered with the Regional Transport Office (RTO). It is a paper-based booklet that includes:

• Vehicle owner details

• Registration number

• Engine & chassis numbers

• Insurance & PUC details

• Registration validity

Drawbacks:

• Susceptible to damage, loss, and wear over time

• No security features like chip or QR code

Due to these limitations, RTOs gradually transitioned to a more durable format—the Smart Card RC.

Now you can porform online rc check by vehicle number.

What is a Smart Card RC?

A Smart Card RC is a compact, plastic card (like a driver’s license) embedded with a microchip. It contains all the vehicle and owner information digitally and can be read using card readers.

Smart Card RC Includes:

• Vehicle registration number

• Owner details

• Fuel type

• Vehicle class and type

• Engine and chassis numbers

• Validity dates

• QR code/microchip

Smart Card RC vs Paper RC:

Benefits:

• Compact and easy to carry

• Long-lasting

• Secure and digitally readable

What is a Virtual RC?

A Virtual RC is a digital version of your registration certificate stored on your smartphone via apps like mParivahan or DigiLocker. It pulls data directly from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) database.

Advantages of Virtual RC Over Physical RC:

• Instant access anytime, anywhere

• Legally accepted as per Ministry of Transport circular (2018)

• No fear of loss or damage

• Useful during traffic checks, road trips, and emergencies

✅ According to the Motor Vehicles Act and MoRTH guidelines, Virtual RC is legally valid if shown via mParivahan or DigiLocker. Screenshots or third-party app uploads may not be accepted.

Which RC Format is Legally Accepted in India?

Important:

• Carrying a digital RC on mobile is sufficient for police checks.

• Make sure your digital RC is synced and downloaded through official apps.

Conclusion: Which RC Should You Use?

While the RC Book still holds legal value in some regions, it’s outdated. The Smart Card RC is more durable and secure, but the future lies in Virtual RCs, which offer unmatched convenience, are eco-friendly, and are now fully legal on Indian roads.

If you haven’t already, download the mParivahan or DigiLocker app, link your vehicle details, and go paperless!