How to transfer vehicle registration before selling in every state in Australia

1800 Car Buyers gives you a state-by-state rego transfer guide you can follow in real time

Selling a car is more than handing over the keys. You also need to transfer the registration so the buyer becomes the recorded operator, and your fines, tolls and insurance liabilities stop with the sale. This guide explains exactly how rego transfers work in every state and territory, including the steps, forms, fees, and deadlines you need to know.

Use it like a checklist. Start with the quick explainer, then jump to your state for the step-by-step process, fee examples, and official links. We keep the language plain and the actions clear so you can complete each task with confidence.

If you choose to sell with 1800 Car Buyers, we make the process even easier with a completely digital process, fast pick-ups across Australia, secure Osko payment, and friendly guidance on what each state requires. There is no pressure and no surprises, just clear steps from first offer to final transfer.

What is a car rego (registration) transfer?

When you sell a vehicle, the law requires you to transfer ownership to your state or territory authority. A car rego transfer (also known as a car registration transfer) updates the registration record so the seller is removed and the buyer becomes the registered operator.

In practice, the vehicle’s registration transfer records the ownership of a vehicle moving to the new operator and formalises the change of ownership. You need to transfer the rego after every disposal — whether you transfer a vehicle privately, buy a vehicle from a friend, or buy or sell a vehicle through a dealer. If the sale is interstate, the forms and fees differ, but the outcome is the same: the buyer is recorded on the register.

How do you transfer car registration? The steps to transfer vary by state, but the pattern is consistent: both parties complete the right forms and ID checks, and the buyer finalises the transfer of registration when buying. Most jurisdictions expect completion within about 14 days. Jump to your state guide below to find out how to transfer. Or get in touch with 1800 Car Buyers for help transferring registration when you sell your car to us.

Why does transferring ownership matter when selling a car?

A vehicle sale changes ownership, so as the seller, you must transfer registration with your state authority. That simple step keeps the record accurate and protects you after the handover.

Many sellers ask why it is important to transfer car ownership when selling. The transfer of car ownership when selling stops future fines and tolls from reaching you and keeps insurance details correct. It also updates compulsory third-party cover to the new operator, which helps the buyer’s policy reflect the new reality.

The biggest risk is ongoing liability once the car has left your driveway. The risks of not transferring car rego when selling include unpaid toll notices, infringement letters and disputes with insurers that are difficult to unwind. Transfer ownership within the required timeframe to avoid late fees and unnecessary stress.

What documents do you need to transfer car ownership?

A registration transfer requires specific documents from the buyer and the seller so the authority can update the record correctly. The car transfer documents listed below reflect what’s required to transfer car ownership in Australia.

Checklist of what you’ll need:

• Proof of identity: You’ll need to provide your driver's licence number and a matching name and address.
• Proof of purchase: Include a receipt or contract that shows the date of sale.
• Transfer paperwork: Complete the transfer form that applies to the types of transfers your road authority uses.
• Accuracy check: Vehicle and seller details must match the registration record and the proof of purchase.
• Cross-border sales: If the buyer or vehicle comes from another state or territory, check any extra duty or inspection rules.
• Lodgement method: Most road authorities let you use the online portal to lodge and pay.‍
• Final pack: Attach each required document and make sure signatures are present.

How to transfer car rego in NSW

In NSW, the seller lodges a notice of disposal and the buyer transfers the registration with Service NSW within 14 days, so the record shows the new operator and the right fees are paid. If you would like friendly help with paperwork, you can sell your car in Sydney with guided support.

Step-by-step guide to transferring your car registration in New South Wales:

1. Tell Service NSW you sold the car: Submit a Notice of Disposal through Service NSW online services, or visit a service centre with your ID and sale details. The official guide confirms that the seller lodges the NOD, and the buyer must transfer within the timeframe.
2. Buyer transfers the rego: If eligible, the buyer can complete the transfer rego online or finish it in person. Make sure the registration goes into the buyer’s name within 14 days to avoid a penalty. The Service NSW page clearly sets out this rule.
3. Know what you will pay: Check the NSW registration transfer fee before you lodge. The current fee is $41 if you transfer within 14 days and $188 if you transfer after 14 days. You can also confirm the NSW registration transfer cost and any number plate fees on the NSW Government fees page. Stamp duty is paid at transfer and is calculated on the market value or purchase price, whichever is higher.
4. Pink slip and eSafety: A pink slip is an eSafety inspection report. It is not required solely to transfer a current rego. The Service NSW guide lists this alongside other helpful notes, such as the CTP green slip transfer on purchase.
5. Number plates: If the vehicle has special or personalised number plates, decide whether the plates stay with the car or are kept by the seller. Plate transfers have their own process and fees, and in some cases require a visit to a centre.

Costs at a glance

• Transfer fee: $41 within 14 days. $188 after 14 days. Figures current on the NSW Government fees page.
• Duty: Calculated on the market value or purchase price. Use the NSW motor vehicle stamp duty checker to estimate your amount before you pay.
• Plates: Special or personalised plate transfers attract separate fees and conditions.

Helpful links in plain English

• Follow the Service NSW guide to transferring a vehicle registration for step-by-step instructions and eligibility.
• Check vehicle registration fees for transfer and plate charges.
• Estimate duty with the Revenue NSW stamp duty calculator via the Service NSW checker.
• Lodge your seller notification and submit a Notice of Disposal.

How to transfer car rego in VIC

In Victoria, the seller must complete the transfer within 14 days so VicRoads can record the new operator and take the correct fees. If you want friendly help with anything from quotes to paperwork, you can sell your car in Melbourne with guided support.

Step-by-step guide to transferring your car registration in Victoria:

1. Sign in to your account: Use your VicRoads ID to log into myVicRoads and start the transfer for a registered vehicle. The VicRoads guide to buying, selling or transferring a vehicle shows exactly where to begin and what each party provides.
2. Prepare your documents: Complete the transfer form, have proof of identity and a receipt with the sale price, and check whether a roadworthy is required. For private sales, the seller gives the buyer a Certificate of Roadworthiness that is less than 30 days old.
3. Submit the application: You can transfer a car registration in Victoria online by entering the buyer and seller details, confirming the vehicle information, and uploading documents. If your situation needs extra paperwork or an exemption, you can take the in-person transfer path at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre.
4. Pay fees and duty: The transfer rego VIC cost includes a fixed transfer fee plus motor vehicle duty based on the vehicle’s market value. VicRoads collects both at lodgement and directs you to the State Revenue Office calculator for the duty amount.
5. Meet the deadline: In VIC, pay the fee and any duty and complete the transfer within 14 days so VicRoads updates ownership without follow-up charges.

Costs at a glance

• Transfer fee: Private passenger motor vehicle transfers are $46.20. Card payment fees can apply.
• Duty rates: For passenger vehicles up to $80,567, duty is $8.40 per $200 of dutiable value. Higher tiers apply above this value. You can confirm the current brackets or use the official calculator.
• For example, for $20,000, the duty is $840 at $8.40 per $200, plus the $46.20 transfer fee.

Helpful links in plain English

• Start with the VicRoads guide to buying, selling or transferring a vehicle for the full process.
• See transfer and motor vehicle duty fee, including the $46.20 transfer fee and the duty table.
• Estimate your duty with the State Revenue Office motor vehicle duty calculator.
• If needed, follow the transfer of the registration of a vehicle in person for counter steps and RWC timing.

How to transfer car rego in QLD

In QLD, the seller provides a current Safety cert, and the buyer completes the transfer within 14 days, so the record shows the new operator and the right fees are paid. If you would like friendly help from offer to paperwork, you can sell your car in Brisbane with guided support.

Step-by-step guide to transferring your car registration in Queensland:

1. Check inspection rules: Most private sales require a current Safety cert before you advertise or hand over the car. If you are selling a heavy vehicle, you may need a certificate of inspection instead of a Safety cert. The Queensland Government explains which vehicles need which inspection.
2. Seller starts the transfer: Begin the transfer request online so the buyer can finalise it, or provide the buyer with a signed receipt and your details if lodging in person. The online service confirms the seller must complete their part before the buyer can proceed.
3. Complete the paperwork: If you are lodging at a centre or by mail, fill out Form F3520 Vehicle Registration Transfer Application and keep the seller's copy as proof. The official form lists what to include and how to lodge.
4. Lodge online or at a centre: If you are eligible, use the Queensland Government transport and motoring portal to complete your rego transfer in Queensland or visit a customer service centre. The portal outlines the steps to log in, confirm sale details, and pay.
5. Pay fees and duty: You also need to pay the vehicle registration transfer fee and any Duty based on the sale price or market value. The transfer fee appears on the government fees page, and the duty is calculated using the state duty rates or the online calculator.
6. Meet the deadline: Complete the transfer within 14 days to avoid penalties and keep your receipts for your records.

Costs at a glance

• Transfer fee: $32.55 to transfer a vehicle registration in Queensland, current as at 1 July 2025.
• Safety certificate fee: $99.35 for motor vehicles up to 4.5 tonnes GVM. Motorcycle and trailer fees differ.
• Duty rates for light vehicles:
  
  • Hybrid or electric: $2 per $100 up to $100,000, then $4 per $100 over $100,000.
  • 1 to 4 cylinders: $3 per $100 up to $100,000, then $5 per $100 over $100,000.
  • 5 or 6 cylinders: $3.50 per $100 up to $100,000, then $5.50 per $100 over $100,000.
  • 7 or more cylinders: $4 per $100 up to $100,000, then $6 per $100 over $100,000.
• Simple example: A four cylinder passenger car purchased for $20,000 attracts $600 in duty at $3 per $100, plus the $32.55 transfer fee.

Helpful links in plain English

• Read the Queensland Government guide to transferring registration for buyers and sellers.
• Finalise online with Transfer registration as the buyer.
• Download Form F3520 Vehicle Registration Transfer Application if lodging on paper.
• Check Safety certificates and when they apply.
• See when a certificate of inspection is needed for a heavy vehicle.

How to transfer car rego in WA

In WA, once you sell a vehicle, you submit a Notice of Disposal to DoT WA, and the buyer completes the transfer, so the record shows the new owner on time. Sellers must notify within seven days, and buyers then lodge the transfer and pay the fees that follow. 1800 Car Buyers can help you sell your car in Perth.

Step-by-step guide to transferring your car registration in Western Australia:

1. Tell DoT WA you sold the vehicle: Submit a Notice of Disposal so DoT WA knows you are no longer the owner. You can lodge this online through DoTDirect or at a Driver and Vehicle Services centre. This applies to cars and to other licensed vehicles such as a caravan, motorcycle or trailer.
2. Buyer starts the transfer: The buyer completes the registration transfer either online through DoTDirect or in person using the MR9 transfer form. When transferring online, buyers need the seller’s last name and plate number, and sellers will need the buyer’s licence number. Lodge within the time limits to avoid penalties.
3. Have the right form and details: If you use paper, complete the Notification of Change of Ownership Vehicle Licence Transfer (MR9). The purchaser submits their copy within 14 days and the seller keeps their copy as proof. The form explains what IDs and vehicle details to provide.
4. Pay the fees and duty: After the transfer is lodged, DoT WA issues an invoice to the buyer for the transfer fee and vehicle licence duty. You can estimate the WA transfer rego cost using the official vehicle licence duty calculator, then pay the invoice by phone, mail, online or at a centre within 28 days.
5. Meet the deadlines and keep records: Sellers notify within seven days. Buyers submit their transfer promptly and then pay the invoiced amount within 28 days to avoid infringements. Keep a copy of your MR9 and the payment receipt for your records.

Costs at a glance

• Transfer fee: DoT WA charges a transfer fee when ownership changes. The fee appears on your DoT invoice after the transfer is lodged.
• Vehicle licence duty: Calculated on the vehicle’s dutiable value. Use the vehicle licence duty calculator for a quick estimate before you submit.
• Plates and extras: Optional or personalised plates and concessional licences can result in additional charges or adjustments on the invoice.

Helpful links in plain English

• Start here with the WA guide to selling and transferring a vehicle licence.
• Use DoTDirect to lodge and track your transfer online.
• Download the MR9 transfer form if you are lodging on paper.
• Estimate duty with the vehicle licence duty calculator.

How to transfer car rego in SA

In SA, the seller completes their part online or with Service SA, and the buyer finishes the transfer within 14 days so the record shows the new owner and the right fees are paid. If you want friendly help while you sell and lodge the paperwork, you can sell your car in Adelaide with guided support from the first offer to the final transfer.

Step-by-step guide to transferring your car registration in South Australia:

1. Start the transfer online or with Service SA: Use the online transfer in mySAGOV if the vehicle is currently registered. You will need the plate number, the seller’s SA licence or client number, and the seller’s last name. If you cannot use the portal, submit a paper form at a Service SA centre. The full process of transferring a vehicle registration is outlined in the SA guide.
2. Seller completes their part: Tell the authority you have sold the vehicle, so the record removes you as the operator. The guide links to the page to notify Service SA you have sold a vehicle and explains what proof to keep after lodgement.
3. Buyer completes and pays: The buyer must transfer car registration SA online or in person so the registration moves into their name. The registration transfer SA must be completed within 14 days, or a late transfer fee may apply. At payment, the buyer pays the transfer fee and any stamp duty.
4. Know the fees before you lodge: The cost to transfer rego SA includes a $31 transfer fee and stamp duty based on the vehicle’s value. Trailers and caravans with a GTM of 4.5 tonnes or less do not pay stamp duty. You can estimate duty with the state calculator and see all current fees on the SA fees page. A late transfer fee of $105 applies if you miss the 14-day window.
5. If you cannot transfer online: Online transfer is not available in several cases, including when the vehicle is unregistered, from interstate, conditionally registered, being transferred between partners or as part of a deceased estate, when the buyer wants to apply a concession, when new number plates are required because the previous owner had special plates, or when a change of ownership inspection is required for a heavy vehicle or trailer three years or older. In these cases, lodge the paper form with Service SA.
6. Concessions and tax settings: If the previous owner received a tax concession, it does not carry over. You must be entitled to the concession in your own right. If you claim a concession and you are not entitled to it, Service SA will remove it and adjust your charges, which may include any motor vehicle tax component that forms part of registration costs. Some buyers may qualify for an exemption from stamp duty. Check the duty rules and calculator before you pay.

Costs at a glance

• Transfer fee: 31 dollars when you lodge the transfer.
• Late transfer fee: 105 dollars if you transfer after 14 days.
• Stamp duty: Calculated on the vehicle’s value. Use the RevenueSA stamp duty calculator and review the SA vehicle registration fees page for current figures and any notes about concessions or exclusions.

Helpful links in plain English

• Read the SA guide to transferring a vehicle registration for step-by-step instructions.
• Estimate your duty with the RevenueSA stamp duty calculator.
• Check the current vehicle registration fee, including transfer and late fees.

How to transfer car rego in TAS

In Tasmania, a seller does not need a roadworthy for cars, but both parties still complete the paperwork and pay any fees, and the buyer must finish the transfer within 14 days, so the record shows the new operator. If you would like a hand while you sell and lodge everything correctly, you can sell your car in Tasmania with guided support from offer to transfer.

Step-by-step guide to transferring your car registration in Tasmania:

1. Check you can transfer the registration online: If both the buyer and seller have Tasmanian licences, you can transfer the registration online through the state portal. If either party does not have a Tas licence or customer ID, you will need to visit a Service Tasmania centre instead. The official page confirms the 14 day window and the online eligibility rule.
2. Complete the TAS transfer form: If you are lodging in person or by mail, use the Notice of Disposal and Application for Transfer of Vehicle Registration (MR116). Sellers are told to advise the Registrar within seven days, and buyers must lodge the transfer within 14 days. The form also shows where to enter the sale price and how duty is calculated.
3. Start the buyer transfer: Most buyers complete the tas rego transfer online by entering the plate and VIN, both surnames, the date of purchase and the amount paid, then making payment. If the online service is not available for your situation, take the signed form to a Service Tasmania shop.
4. Know what it costs: To work out the transfer rego tas cost, use the state duty and transfer fee calculator. Duty for passenger vehicles is typically three per cent up to thirty-five thousand dollars, with higher tiers above that. As a simple example, a twenty-dollar passenger car attracts six hundred dollars duty at three per cent, plus the transfer fee shown at checkout. Duty and the transfer fee are payable within 14 days of purchase.
5. Special vehicle notes: The process for transferring a motorcycle or trailer is the same, but duty rates differ by vehicle type on the MR116 table. If you are registering a trailer or caravan rather than transferring a current rego, there are separate inspection requirements before registration.

Costs at a glance

• Duty example for a passenger car: Three per cent up to thirty-five thousand dollars, for example, six hundred dollars on a twenty-thousand-dollar purchase. Higher tiers apply above thirty-five thousand dollars, and a minimum twenty-dollar duty can apply on very low values.
• Transfer fee: Added at payment and shown by the calculator or counter receipt. Fees are collected by Transport Tasmania (Transport TAS).
• Payment timing: Duty and transfer fees are payable within 14 days of purchase.

Helpful links in plain English

• Read the Service Tasmania guide to transferring a vehicle registration.
• Use the duty and transfer fee calculator to see your total before you pay.
• Download the Notice of Disposal and Application for Transfer of Vehicle Registration (MR116) if you plan to lodge on paper.

How to transfer rego in ACT

In ACT, the seller lodges a disposal and the buyer transfers the vehicle via Access Canberra within 14 days, so the register shows the new operator and the right fees are paid. If you want friendly help with anything from quotes to paperwork, you can sell your car in the ACT with guided support.

Step-by-step guide to transferring your car registration in the Australian Capital Territory:

1. Start at Access Canberra: Private buyers and sellers complete transfers in person at an Access Canberra Service Centre. You will bring ID and your completed form, then pay the fees and duty at the counter. The Vehicle registration and transfer page explains the steps and the 14-day rule.
2. Complete the form: Fill out the application to transfer vehicle registration and make sure both parties sign it. Keep your proof of purchase. You can download the latest form before you visit.
3. Check inspection needs: Some transfers need an inspection. If you are transferring ACT registration for a vehicle over 6 years old, Access Canberra requires a roadworthy inspection and Certificate of Inspection. The roadworthy inspections guide lists when inspections apply and where to book.
4. Know the costs before you go: The act rego transfer cost includes a fixed transfer fee plus duty on the purchase price or market value. The fee table lists the current transfer fee and the late fee after 14 days. Duty in the ACT is calculated separately, and you can check it with the ACT Revenue Office calculator.
5. Lodge and pay: Bring acceptable proof of identity and a card for payment. If you are eligible to transfer the registration online as a licensed motor vehicle dealer, you can use the LMVD online transaction, but private buyers and sellers lodge at a Service Centre. Once processed, the buyer becomes the recorded operator.
6. Finish within 14 days: Complete your act rego transfer within the 14-day window to avoid the late fee. If you miss the deadline, Access Canberra adds the late amount to the standard fee.

Costs at a glance

• Transfer fee: $49.80 when the operatorship changes hands, current as at 1 July 2025.
• Late transfer fee: $134.40 if you transfer after 14 days.
• Duty: Calculated on the purchase price or market value. Use the motor vehicle duty calculator to estimate your amount.

Helpful links in plain English

• Read the Access Canberra guide to vehicle registration and transfer for information on what to bring and where to go.
• Check transferring vehicle registration fees for up-to-date charges and late fees.
• Estimate duty with the ACT Revenue Office motor vehicle duty calculator.

How to transfer car rego in NT

In the NT, the seller lodges a notice of disposal and the buyer completes the transfer with the Motor Vehicle Registry, including any inspection that applies. If you would like friendly help while you sell and lodge the paperwork, you can sell your car in the NT with guided support from offer to transfer.

Step-by-step guide to transferring your car registration in the Northern Territory:

1. Seller lodges a notice of disposal: Tell MVR you have sold the vehicle. You can use the R06 notice of disposal form, the most recent registration certificate signed by both parties, or a simple signed letter with the required details. Lodge it by email, mail, or at an MVR office within 14 days.
2. Buyer completes the transfer application: Download the NT rego transfer form R11, gather ID and NT residency evidence, plus proof of ownership, then submit your application to MVR. You can lodge in person, by email, or by mail. There is no self-service portal, so you cannot transfer online in the NT.
3. Know when an inspection applies: Some vehicles need an inspection before transfer. The NT guide explains inspection requirements and where to book if needed. MVR will advise you if an inspection is required for your case.
4. Pay fees and duty: MVR will transfer the ownership fee at lodgement and collect stamp duty on the dutiable value. In the NT, duty is three dollars per one hundred dollars of the vehicle’s value, calculated by the Territory Revenue Office.
5. Meet the deadline: Apply to transfer within 14 days of the sale so the record shows the new operator and you avoid penalties. Keep copies of your R11, proof of sale, and your receipt.

Costs at a glance

• Stamp duty: Calculated at $3 per $100 of the vehicle’s dutiable value. Use the NT calculator for an estimate before you lodge.
• Transfer fee: Payable to MVR at lodgement with your R11. The amount appears on your invoice or at the counter.
• Interstate vehicles: Under the interstate car registration transfer NT rules, you must transfer to the NT within three months of settling in the Territory, or within twenty-eight days if you have applied for or hold an NT driver licence.

When you need a different path

• Vehicle is unregistered: You must apply for a new NT registration rather than transfer, and MVR may require an inspection first.
• Suspension or termination on the record: Resolve any suspension or termination issues with MVR before you lodge the transfer, so processing can proceed.

Helpful links in plain English

• Read the NT guide to registering or transferring a vehicle for the full overview.
• Follow the buyer transfer steps and download the R11 form on the same page.
• See former-owner responsibilities for acceptable notices of disposal, including the R06 form.

Can 1800 Car Buyers help with the transfer process?

A national buyer like 1800 Car Buyers simplifies registration transfers across all states so you can focus on the sale, not the paperwork. If you are asking, "Can I do a registration transfer online?" We will show you the best path for your state and provide seller support from the first offer to the final handover. If you need help with car registration transfers, we are ready to step in.

Why sellers choose us:

• Instant quote: Get a firm online price in minutes with no obligation.
• Completely digital paperwork: Review and sign on your phone or laptop, and keep tidy records.
• Fast pick-ups: We collect from your home or office across Australia, often on the same or next business day.
• Secure Osko payment: Receive cleared funds to most banks in near real time.
• State-by-state guidance: We explain the exact steps for your rego transfer and provide the right forms.
• Friendly seller support: Talk to a real person who knows the rules and can answer specific questions.
• Transparent fees: Know what you will pay and why before you book a collection.
• No pressure decision window: Take the time you need to decide.

Ready to sell with less admin and more certainty. Get started now, and we will guide you through every requirement: get an instant price.