Can You Sell an Unregistered Car?
Selling a car without registration can seem complicated, but in Australia, it is completely legal if you follow the correct process.
While a registered vehicle is often easier to sell, an unregistered car can still fetch a fair price—especially if you’re dealing with a trusted car buyer.
However, every state has different regulations when it comes to selling and transferring ownership of an unregistered car.
If you’re looking for a fast, hassle-free way to sell your unregistered car, Vehicle Buying takes care of the process for you, ensuring a smooth sale without the usual roadblocks.
Learn more about how you can sell your unregistered car below.Things to Know Before Selling an Unregistered Car with Vehicle Buying
Selling an unregistered car means that the vehicle doesn’t have legal permission to be driven on the road until it is either re-registered by the new owner or transported via a towing service. In most cases, the number plates must be removed before the sale, and some states may require a roadworthy certificate or proof of ownership transfer.- You cannot legally drive an unregistered car to its new owner unless you have a temporary permit or trade plates.
- Some states require a safety or roadworthy certificate before selling an unregistered vehicle.
- You will need to cancel the registration and return the plates to your state’s transport authority if they are still attached to the car.
- Vehicle Buying accepts unregistered cars and handles the paperwork, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transaction.
Selling an Unregistered Car in Australia Based on State
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Selling an unregistered car in the ACT is straightforward. The registration must be cancelled before the sale, and the plates must be returned to Access Canberra. If the buyer wants to re-register the car, they will need an ACT Roadworthy Certificate, as well as proof of ownership transfer.New South Wales (NSW)
In NSW, selling an unregistered car requires the seller to remove the number plates and return them to Service NSW. The buyer must arrange an inspection and a Blue Slip before re-registering the vehicle.Queensland (QLD)
Queensland sellers must provide a Safety Certificate when selling a registered vehicle, but this is not required for an unregistered car. However, you will need to remove the plates and return them to the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads.South Australia (SA)
Selling an unregistered car in South Australia is legal, but the registration must be cancelled and the plates returned to Service SA. The buyer will need to complete a vehicle identity check before re-registration.Victoria (VIC)
Victoria allows unregistered car sales, but sellers must provide proof of ownership, such as a receipt or contract of sale. The number plates must be surrendered to VicRoads, and the buyer will need a Roadworthy Certificate to re-register the vehicle.Western Australia (WA)
In WA, unregistered vehicles can be sold, but the seller must notify the Department of Transport, and the plates need to be removed. The buyer will need to get a roadworthy inspection before registering the car.Why Sell Your Car with Vehicle Buying?
No Need for Rego or Roadworthy Hassles
Selling an unregistered car privately often means dealing with roadworthy inspections and transfer paperwork. With Vehicle Buying, we buy your car as-is, so you don’t need to worry about compliance.We Handle the Paperwork for You
From cancelling registration to ownership transfer, we take care of all the necessary legal requirements, ensuring a stress-free sale.Fast & Fair Market Offers
An unregistered car doesn’t mean you have to settle for a low price. We assess your car’s true market value, ensuring you get the best possible offer without hidden fees.No Towing Worries – We Come to You
Because unregistered cars can’t be legally driven, Vehicle Buying offers a pickup service that comes to your location to inspect and collect your vehicle.Instant Payment & Secure Transactions
Private sales can take weeks, and payments aren’t always guaranteed. We offer secure, same-day payments so you can sell your car and move on without delays.Sell Your Unregistered Car with Ease Today
Selling an unregistered car in Australia doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful.
Vehicle Buying makes the process simple, legal, and hassle-free—no worrying about registration, roadworthy certificates, or transport.
Whether your car is unregistered due to expiry, repairs, or personal reasons, we provide a fair, instant offer and handle the paperwork for you.
Skip the complications and sell your unregistered car the easy way.