Can You Sell an Unregistered Car in QLD?

Things You Should Know Before Selling an Unreg Car

Do you have an unregistered car and wondering if you can sell it in Queensland? No worries, you're not alone. In this article, we'll break down how to sell your unregistered vehicle in QLD and what steps you need to take to make the sale legit. It’s easier than you think, so let’s get into how to get it done without the drama!

Can I Sell a Car with No Rego?

In Queensland, selling an unregistered car is allowed, but you and the buyer must take some steps to ensure a smooth sale. Since the car lacks registration, it cannot legally be driven on public roads without an Unregistered Vehicle Permit (UVP).

"For Sale, No Rego, No RWC"

More often than not, a car is sold unregistered alongside being sold without a Roadworthy Certificate (RWC). Whether it needs too much work and/or you've dropped every last dollar in to your project and can't bring yourself to spend any more.

Selling without a roadie can also make it harder to sell since many don’t want the extra hassle of getting inspections and making repairs themselves. It also puts doubt in the mind of buyers regarding how much work it actually needs to pass.

If you're curious about what a RWC involves, check out our guide on What does a RWC cover?

Do I Need to Cancel My Rego if I Sell Without Plates?

Yes, removing the number plates will not automatically deregister the car. If you haven’t cancelled your QLD registration and you've sold your vehicle, the new owner cannot register it in their name until you cancel the current registration. This also applies for other states.

For example, if your Queensland registration is still active, the car cannot be registered in New South Wales until the Queensland registration has been cancelled. You’ll need to cancel the QLD rego, then provide a proof of cancellation to the NSW Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) before they will allow you to register the vehicle in NSW.

Can I Sell an Unregistered Car to a Dealer?

Yes, dealers will buy unregistered cars. Dealers are generally equipped to handle unregistered vehicles, and they may offer a fair price depending on the car's condition.

When selling your car without rego, a dealer might account for the cost of re-registering the car or repairing it to meet roadworthy standards. However, always disclose the lack of registration and be aware that the dealer may offer a lower price to cover these additional costs.

Can You Sell a Car with Club Registration?

Selling a car with club registration requires careful consideration of the unique rules surrounding these types of vehicles. Club registration is often granted to classic or historic cars for limited use like travelling to enthusiast car club meets, and the registration is typically non-transferable to a new owner.

Payment and Risk

When selling an unregistered car, cash is usually the preferred method of payment, and it's essential to complete a written contract of sale to protect both parties, but the standard practice is supplying a carbon copy receipt including the VIN and date/time of handover.

Getting an Unregistered Vehicle Permit (UVP) in QLD

To move an unregistered car without getting fined, you need an Unregistered Vehicle Permit (UVP) to legally drive it on public roads in Queensland. This permit is used for things like getting the car fixed or moving it to a new location.

When You Don't Require a UVP in QLD

You can move an unregistered vehicle without a permit for:

• a gas certificate
• a weigh bridge certificate
• a safety certificate or a certificate of inspection
• a written-off vehicle inspection (WOVI)
• a Queensland Police Service inspection (surrogates)
• a surrogate identification number/s to be stamped on the vehicle
• applying for vehicle registration from your nearest transport and motoring customer service centre.
  

To do this, you must carry a valid CTP insurance certificate with you. Read more about Unregistered Vehicle Permits

What to Consider Before Buying an Unregistered Car

Purchasing an unregistered car can be a cost-effective choice, often providing significant savings compared to registered vehicles. However, it comes with its own set of challenges and risks.

First, understand the reasons behind the lack of registration. It could be as simple as the previous owner letting it lapse, or it might point to deeper issues like unresolved legal disputes, outstanding loans or may even be a scam. Always verify the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and ensure the car has a clean history through official checks.

Costs of Buying an Unregistered Car

Buying an unregistered car can be tricky and may cost more than expected. You’ll need to get the car inspected to ensure it’s roadworthy. On top of that, you’ll have to pay for registration, stamp duty, and insurance.

Since it’s illegal to drive an unregistered car, you may also need to arrange towing or buy a temporary permit to move it. Knowing these potential challenges can help you prepare and avoid surprises.

Final Thoughts

Selling an unregistered car is a straightforward process, but the lack of rego and a roadworthy certificate adds additional considerations for both the seller and buyer.

Pricing your car appropriately and being upfront about its unregistered status will help smooth the process. While it may limit your options, there are plenty of buyers interested in unregistered cars, especially for restoration or spare parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

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