To transfer ownership of a car in Australia, you must complete the vehicle registration process when selling your car to a new owner. The process generally involves filling in a transfer of registration form either online or at a local service centre; however, it can vary according to the state or territory you live in. In this AutoFlip guide, we will run through the process of transferring a car registration in all Australian states and territories, ensuring your vehicle is sold to its new owner free of hassle.
Why transferring a car registration is important
Whether you’re a private seller or a dealership, understanding how to transfer the ownership of a car correctly is crucial for a smooth, legal transaction. It ensures the change of ownership is properly recorded with your state’s transport authority, protects both parties from future liabilities and confirms that the vehicle is no longer your legal responsibility once sold.
Switching ownership of cars is a common practice carried out by dealerships and private sellers when vehicles are sold to a new owner. There can be both legal and financial implications if the vehicle transfer paperwork is not completed as part of the sale.
Ensures a car can be legally driven on the road
Completing the registration transfer requirements enables the vehicle to be legally driven by its new owner, and prevents fines for non-compliance on the behalf of both the seller and buyer. It also helps confirm that all registration details, such as licence plates and vehicle records, are correctly updated with your state or territory’s transport authority.
Protects buyers and sellers from future liabilities
Ensuring the vehicle registration is transferred to the new owner ensures that you are not liable for any unpaid tolls, fines, accidents or registration fees collected in the future. This protection is particularly important if the new owner commits a traffic offence or fails to maintain insurance coverage after the sale.
Provides confirmation of ownership
When completed, the vehicle transfer paperwork officially transfers legal responsibility for the vehicle to the buyer. It also provides both parties with written proof of sale, which may be required when updating insurance or handling related legal or financial matters.
Ensures insurance coverage
Many insurance providers require the policyholder to also be the registered owner of the vehicle, particularly on high-performance or luxury vehicles. Transferring registration promptly helps avoid potential lapses in insurance coverage and ensures the new owner can obtain or update their policy without delay.
Prevents extra costs
Completing the registration transfer paperwork on time avoids late transfer penalties and the need to have a car inspected for re-registration. It also helps prevent unnecessary administrative fees or reinstatement costs if the vehicle’s registration lapses before being updated.
Common mistakes to avoid when transferring car ownership
Even small errors during the transfer process can cause delays or unexpected costs. To make sure your car sale goes smoothly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Incomplete paperwork — Double-check that all sections of the transfer form are signed and dated by both parties. Missing signatures are the most common cause of rejections.
- Incorrect buyer or seller details — Ensure driver’s licence numbers and contact details match the official records held by your transport authority.
- Late submission — Most states require transfers to be completed within 7 to 14 days. Missing this window can attract late-transfer penalties.
- Unpaid fees — Transfer and duty payments must be finalised before the registration update is complete.
- Not confirming transfer completion — Log in to your state account (for example, myVicRoads or Service NSW) to confirm the vehicle has been successfully removed from your name.
Being aware of these issues helps you transfer the owner of a car correctly the first time and ensures both parties remain compliant.
Documents you’ll need to transfer ownership
Before starting the process, make sure you have the following:
- A valid driver’s licence or proof of identity
- The vehicle registration certificate
- A completed transfer application form
- Proof of purchase or receipt showing the sale price and date
- A roadworthy certificate (RWC) if required in your state
Having these ready helps the transfer owner of car applications go through faster and prevents unnecessary delays. Exact requirements can vary slightly by state or territory, so check your local transport authority’s website for any additional forms or inspection rules.
How to transfer car ownership in New South Wales (NSW)
To transfer a vehicle registration in NSW:
- Sellers must lodge a Notice of Disposal online or at a Service NSW Centre
- Buyers must transfer the vehicle registration within 14 days of purchase
- If transferring in person, buyers should provide the vehicle’s registration certificate, signed by the seller, along with their proof of identity
More details can be found on the Service NSW website.
How to transfer car ownership in Victoria (VIC)
Transferring a vehicle registration in Victoria entails the following steps:
- Both the buyer and seller must have active myVicRoads accounts
- Sellers begin the process online, after which an email is sent to the buyer
- Buyers can then pay the transfer fee and motor vehicle duty (if applicable)
Visit vicRoads to find out more.
How to transfer car ownership in Queensland (QLD)
To transfer a vehicle’s registration in Queensland, the following process applies:
- Sellers must lodge an Application to Transfer online or at a Transport and Motoring Service Centre
- Buyers must then complete the transfer within 14 days, either online or in person.
For more information, please visit the Queensland government website.
How to transfer car ownership in Western Australia (WA)
Switching ownership of cars in Western Australia involves:
- Sellers notifying the Department of Transport within seven days of the sale using a nominated form, completed either online or at a Drivers and Vehicle Services Centre
- Buyers contacting the Department of Transport either online or at a Drivers and Vehicle Services Centre to confirm they are the owner of a new vehicle
You can find more information at the Western Australia government website.
How to transfer car ownership in Tasmania (TAS)
Transferring vehicle ownership in Tasmania involves the following steps:
- Both the buyer and seller must have Tasmanian driver’s licenses, and the seller must be the registered operator of the vehicle
- Buyers complete the transfer online, using the vehicle’s registration number, VIN number, the names of both the buyer and the seller, the date they purchased the vehicle and the purchase price
- Buyers can also complete the process at a Service Centre using a completed transfer application form and their current Tasmanian license
Visit the Tasmanian Service website for more information.
How to transfer car ownership in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
ACT residents can transfer ownership of their cars by completing the following steps:
- Buyers provide proof of identification, such as an ACT license, and a valid form of payment to pay the relevant fees.
- Buyers need to complete the registration transfer process within 14 days of purchase at an Access Canberra Service Centre.
Visit the Access Canberra website to find out more.
How to transfer car ownership in the Northern Territory (NT)
In the Northern Territory, the following process applies to transferring vehicle ownership:
- Buyers and sellers fill out the ‘R11 Apply to Register a Vehicle in the Northern Territory’ form
- Buyers provide evidence of residency in the NT (using a driver’s license, for example) and proof of vehicle ownership (using a signed receipt or similar)
- Buyers apply for the transfer via email, post or in person at a service centre.
Please visit the NT government website for more information.
Partner with AutoFlip for a smooth and seamless car sale
Transferring the owner of a car is essential when selling a vehicle in Australia, ensuring regulations are complied with and financial liabilities are withheld. The process varies in each Australian state and territory; however, most enable buyers and sellers to complete their forms online or in person.
It is also important to note that these tips generally only apply to sales where both the buyer and seller are residents of the same state. For sales that cross state lines, it is best to check the relevant state government website for exact processes.
For hassle-free car sales, choose AutoFlip. Our trusted network of dealers makes it easy to sell your car in Melbourne, Perth and other major regions in Australia. Receive an instant offer for your vehicle today, or sell your car for cash at a competitive market price. Lodge your vehicle’s details with us and discover the AutoFlip difference.
