When you buy a vehicle in Tamil Nadu, registering it at the right Regional Transport Office (RTO) is a must. If you are from Thanjavur, your vehicle must be registered at Thanjavur RTO (TN49). This office is managed by the Tamil Nadu Transport Department and takes care of all transport-related services in the district.

In this blog, we will explain everything about Thanjavur RTO (TN49) – its role, services, required documents, and the process of registering your vehicle.

What is Thanjavur RTO (TN49)?

The Thanjavur RTO (TN49) is the official Regional Transport Office for the Thanjavur district in Tamil Nadu. Every vehicle registered here carries the code TN49 on its number plate.

This RTO ensures that all vehicles in the region are legally registered, roadworthy, and compliant with road safety rules. It also provides other services such as issuing driving licenses, collecting road tax, and granting permits.

Services Offered at Thanjavur RTO (TN49)

The Thanjavur RTO provides a wide range of services, including:

  • New Vehicle Registration – For cars, bikes, commercial vehicles, and others.
  • Driving Licenses – Issuing learner’s and permanent licenses.
  • Renewal of Licenses – Extending validity for expired licenses.
  • Ownership Transfer – Registering change of ownership for used vehicles.
  • Duplicate Certificates – For RC, permits, and licenses.
  • Road Tax Collection – Mandatory tax payment for vehicle owners.
  • Permits & NOC – For commercial vehicles and inter-state travel.
  • Fitness Certificates – Ensuring older vehicles are safe for the road.
  • Pollution Certificates – Verifying emission compliance.

Documents Required for Vehicle Registration

If you are registering your vehicle at Thanjavur RTO (TN49), you will need to submit the following:

  • Duly filled Form 20 (Application for registration)
  • Sales certificate of the vehicle (Form 21)
  • Roadworthiness certificate from manufacturer (Form 22)
  • Valid insurance certificate
  • Proof of address (Aadhar, utility bill, ration card, etc.)
  • Invoice of the vehicle purchase
  • Temporary registration (if any)
  • Pollution under Control (PUC) certificate
  • Passport-sized photographs of the owner

Vehicle Registration Process at Thanjavur RTO (TN49)

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

  1. Collect the forms – Get Form 20, Form 21, and Form 22.
  2. Fill out details – Enter vehicle and owner details correctly.
  3. Attach documents – Submit ID proof, address proof, insurance, and PUC.
  4. Pay fees and tax – Pay applicable registration charges and road tax.
  5. Vehicle inspection – The RTO officer inspects your vehicle.
  6. Receive RC – On approval, you will get a Registration Certificate (RC) and number plate with the code TN49.

Online Services for Thanjavur RTO

Thanks to digital services, many tasks can be done online through:

  • Parivahan Portal (parivahan.gov.in) – Apply for registration, renewal, or license.
  • Tamil Nadu Transport Department Website – Check application status, pay taxes, or download forms.

This reduces waiting time and makes the process easier.

Importance of Registering at Thanjavur RTO (TN49)

Registering your vehicle is not just a legal requirement, but it also:

  • Provides proof of ownership
  • Ensures the vehicle meets road safety standards
  • Helps in resale or ownership transfer
  • Keeps insurance valid
  • Protects you from penalties for driving an unregistered vehicle

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the RTO code for Thanjavur?
The official RTO code for Thanjavur is TN49. All vehicles registered in this district will have number plates starting with TN49.

Q2. Where is Thanjavur RTO located?
The Thanjavur RTO (TN49) is located within Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu. You can visit the office for vehicle registration, licenses, and other services.

Q3. What services does Thanjavur RTO (TN49) provide?
It provides vehicle registration, driving licenses, fitness certificates, permits, ownership transfers, road tax collection, and issuing duplicate RC or licenses.

Q4. What documents are needed for new vehicle registration at TN49?
You need Form 20, Form 21 (sales certificate), Form 22 (roadworthiness), address proof, insurance certificate, PUC certificate, and vehicle invoice.

Q5. Can I apply for registration online at Thanjavur RTO?
Yes, you can apply online via the Parivahan portal (parivahan.gov.in) or Tamil Nadu Transport Department website, but physical inspection of the vehicle at TN49 RTO is mandatory.

Q6. How long does it take to get the Registration Certificate (RC)?
It usually takes 7–15 working days, depending on the verification of documents and vehicle inspection.

Q7. Can I get a driving license at Thanjavur RTO (TN49)?
Yes, Thanjavur RTO issues learner’s licenses, permanent licenses, and also renews expired licenses.

Q8. Do commercial vehicles also need to be registered at Thanjavur RTO?
Yes, all commercial vehicles, goods carriers, and taxis in Thanjavur must be registered at TN49 RTO and obtain necessary permits.

Q9. What happens if I don’t register my vehicle at TN49 RTO?
Driving an unregistered vehicle is illegal in India. You may face heavy fines, and in some cases, your vehicle may be seized.

Q10. Can I transfer my vehicle ownership at Thanjavur RTO?
Yes, you can apply for transfer of ownership at TN49 by submitting the RC, buyer/seller details, valid insurance, and applicable forms.

Conclusion

The Thanjavur RTO (TN49) plays a very important role in keeping transport services smooth and legal in Tamil Nadu. Whether you are buying a new car, two-wheeler, or commercial vehicle in Thanjavur, registering it here is mandatory.

With both offline and online services, the registration process is now simpler and more convenient. Always ensure your vehicle is legally registered to avoid fines and ensure safe driving.