What’s the same everywhere
- The PPSR check. Finance owing, written-off and stolen records are searched on the national PPSR, whichever state the vehicle is registered in. That makes it the one check that matters for interstate purchases.
- Transfer deadline. Most states and territories give the buyer 14 days to transfer the registration into their name. Late transfers can attract a penalty.
- Stamp duty. Every state and territory charges duty when a vehicle changes hands, usually based on the price paid or market value, whichever is higher.
- Seller’s notice. Sellers usually need to notify the road authority of the sale, and buyers need to lodge the transfer.
Rules and fees change. Treat this page as a starting point, and confirm current deadlines, fees and inspection requirements with the road authority linked in each section before you buy.
New South Wales (NSW)
Road authority: Transport for NSW, through Service NSW.
You don’t need a safety inspection just to transfer a registered vehicle, but vehicles more than five years old need a safety check (often called a “pink slip”) before their registration can be renewed. Ask when the rego is due and whether a recent inspection has been done. NSW buyers often still search for a REVS check, which is now the PPSR.
Victoria (VIC)
Road authority: VicRoads.
To transfer a registered vehicle, a current Certificate of Roadworthiness (roadworthy certificate, or RWC) is generally required, so ask the seller whether one is included in the price. A roadworthy certificate checks safety items only; it isn’t a full mechanical inspection.
Queensland (QLD)
Road authority: Department of Transport and Main Roads.
When a registered light vehicle is offered for sale, the seller generally has to display a current safety certificate on it. Check it’s current and matches the vehicle before you agree on a price.
Western Australia (WA)
Road authority: Department of Transport.
Check the vehicle licence (registration) status and when it expires, and confirm with the Department of Transport whether the vehicle needs an inspection before it can be transferred or re-licensed.
South Australia (SA)
Road authority: Department for Infrastructure and Transport, through Service SA.
Check the registration status and expiry with the seller’s paperwork, and confirm the transfer steps and any inspection requirements before you pay.
Tasmania (TAS)
Road authority: Department of State Growth, through Transport Tasmania and Service Tasmania.
Check the registration status and whether the vehicle needs an inspection before it can be transferred or re-registered.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Road authority: Access Canberra.
Inspection requirements in the ACT can depend on the vehicle’s age and history. Confirm with Access Canberra whether an inspection is needed before transfer.
Northern Territory (NT)
Road authority: Motor Vehicle Registry, through NT.GOV.AU.
Inspection requirements in the NT can depend on the vehicle’s age. Check with the Motor Vehicle Registry before you buy, especially for older vehicles.
Buying interstate
If you buy a vehicle registered in another state, you’ll usually need to register it in your home state, which can involve an inspection, a new set of plates and duty. Budget for these costs. The PPSR check works the same way for an interstate vehicle, and a full history report can include the registration details on record.