Vehicle Transfer on Death of Owner (Form 31 Guide): Succession, Legal Heir NOC & Timeline

Published by Adv. Rajesh Verma on 26 September 2026

1. The 30-Day Mandatory Death Intimation Rule

Under Rule 56 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules 1989:

  • Day 1 to 30: The successor must submit a written letter informing the RTO of the owner's demise along with a copy of the Death Certificate. The successor is permitted to use the vehicle for up to 3 months.
  • Within 3 Months: The successor must formally apply for ownership transfer in Form 31.

    • 2. Legal Heir Documents & Family Survival Certificate

    To transfer the vehicle to one specific family member (e.g., spouse or child):

    1. Original Registration Certificate (RC).

    2. Death Certificate (Issued by Municipal Corporation / Panchayat).

    3. Legal Heir Certificate / Succession Certificate / Surviving Member Certificate.

    4. NOC Affidavit from other legal heirs on ₹100 stamp paper stating they have no objection to the vehicle being transferred to the applicant.

    5. Form 31 in duplicate.

    3. Step-by-Step Form 31 Submission on Vahan Portal

    1. Go to vahan.parivahan.gov.in $\to$ Select "Transfer of Ownership (Succession Case)".

    2. Enter vehicle registration number and chassis last 5 digits.

    3. Upload Death Certificate, Legal Heir Certificate, and Form 31.

    4. Pay statutory transfer fee (₹150 for 2-wheeler / ₹300 for Car).

    5. Submit physical RC and original affidavits at the RTO counter for verification.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    How soon must the death of a vehicle owner be reported to the RTO?

    Under Rule 56(1) CMVR 1989, the person succeeding to the possession of the vehicle must intimate the RTO within 30 days of the owner demise.

    When must the formal Form 31 transfer application be submitted?

    The complete Form 31 application must be submitted within 3 months (90 days) from the date of death of the registered owner.

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