How to transfer a vehicle registration in NSW?

Whether you’re planning to buy a used car or sell your car for cash, one step you definitely don’t want to miss is transferring the registration. In New South Wales, every ownership change, especially for used cars, requires a vehicle registration transfer, and completing it on time protects both the buyer and seller.

If you’re wondering what to do after you sell your car or buy a second-hand car, here’s a simple guide on how to transfer vehicle registration in NSW smoothly and on time.

Why does a Vehicle Registration Transfer matter when buying or selling a used car?

Whenever a registered vehicle changes owners, the government requires:

• The seller is to lodge a Notice of Disposal (NOD).
• The buyer is to transfer the vehicle registration within 14 days.

Completing the vehicle registration transfer promptly helps avoid late transfer fees and prevents disputes about fines or toll notices.

When can you transfer a Vehicle Registration online?

In most private used-car sales, you can transfer a vehicle registration online if:

• The vehicle is registered in New South Wales
• The seller has already submitted the NOD

If both conditions are met, you can complete the entire transfer vehicle registration process through your MyServiceNSW Account.

When can you transfer a Vehicle Registration in person

You’ll need to visit a Service NSW Centre if:

• The seller hasn’t lodged a NOD
• You’re buying on behalf of a business or organisation
• The vehicle was purchased from an interstate seller
• The transfer is due to the death of the owner
• The vehicle weighs more than 4.5 tonnes
• You don’t want to keep personalised or special plates
• The NSW registration expired more than 3 months ago
• You’re entitled to a stamp duty exemption

In these cases, an in-person transfer of vehicle registration is required.

What do you need for a Vehicle Registration Transfer?

For an online transfer:

To transfer vehicle registration in NSW online, you’ll need:

• MyServiceNSW Account with NSW Driver Licence and vehicle registration added
• Purchase date
• Purchase price or fair market value (whichever is higher)
• Concession details (if applicable)
• Payment for:
  • Transfer fee + stamp duty (unless exempt)
  • Number plate fees (if applicable)
  • Motor vehicle tax (if the previous owner had a concession you don’t qualify for)

For an in-person transfer

To transfer vehicle registration in NSW in person, bring the following:

• Completed Application for Transfer of Registration form (PDF)
• Proof of identity
• Concession details (if applicable)
• Certificate of Registration signed by seller (or proof of entitlement)
• Payment

Helpful things you must know

A few more tips to make your vehicle registration transfer easier:

• The CTP/Green Slip insurance automatically transfers with the vehicle.
• A Pink Slip is not needed if the rego is current.
• If personalised number plates come with the vehicle, the new owner becomes responsible for ongoing fees.
• Remember to update your toll account once the transfer is completed.

Final advice

Both the buyer and seller are responsible when completing a vehicle registration transfer. The seller should lodge the NOD immediately, and the buyer should transfer the vehicle registration within 14 days to avoid extra charges.

If you’re planning to sell or buy a used car, understanding how to transfer vehicle registration keeps the process simple, legal, and stress-free.

FAQs

1. How do I transfer vehicle registration?

To transfer a vehicle registration, the seller must provide proof of sale, and the buyer must submit the required forms to the relevant transport authority. You will typically need to provide proof of identity, the vehicle’s registration documents, and payment for the transfer fees and any applicable taxes. The exact process may vary by state or territory.

2. Can I transfer a vehicle registration online?

Yes, in most Australian states and territories, vehicle registration transfer can be done online if both the buyer and seller meet the eligibility criteria set by the relevant transport authority. Requirements often include proof of identity, completed forms, and payment of transfer fees.

3. Can I transfer registration from one vehicle to another?

No, you cannot directly transfer registration from one vehicle to another. Each vehicle has its own registration. However, in some regions, you may be able to transfer personalised or special number plates to a different vehicle, subject to the transport authority’s rules.

4. How to transfer vehicle registration in NSW?

If you want to transfer vehicle registration in NSW, the seller must first lodge a Notice of Disposal (NOD). Then the buyer can transfer the registration online through MyServiceNSW if eligible, or at a Service NSW Centre. You’ll then have to provide proof of identity, purchase details, and payment for fees. You must also complete the transfer within 14 days to avoid late fees. The CTP insurance (Green Slip) will then be automatically transferred with the vehicle.