Registering a vehicle (rego) in Australia: what you need to know

Vehicle registration (or “rego”) is a compulsory legal requirement in Australia. A vehicle without rego cannot be driven on public roads. The process differs from state to state, but there are common points that anyone who buys and uses a car in Australia needs to know.

How does rego work?

Rego is the registration of your vehicle with the transport authority of the state where you live. Once registration is successful, the vehicle is issued a number plate and confirmed as validly registered (many states now use an electronic system rather than a paper sticker).

Rego usually runs for three months, six months, or one year — you choose the term when you register. When it expires, you need to renew it to keep the vehicle legal. Driving on expired rego can result in a fine, and the vehicle may be impounded.

What is CTP insurance and is it compulsory?

CTP insurance (Compulsory Third Party insurance, or a Green Slip in NSW) is compulsory accident insurance. It covers injury to other people (injury or death) if you cause an accident — but it does not cover damage to vehicles.

In most states, CTP is included in the rego fee (you pay it as a single charge). However, in NSW and some other states, you need to buy CTP separately from a private provider before you can renew your rego. Check the specific rules for your state.

CTP does not replace comprehensive insurance — if your own car is damaged in an accident, CTP does not pay for it. Comprehensive insurance is optional but recommended.

Roadworthy inspection (roadworthy/pink slip)

In some states, a vehicle needs to pass a roadworthy inspection before it can be registered or renewed — especially when the car is older or has been brought in from another state. The name varies: Roadworthy Certificate (VIC), Pink Slip (NSW), Safety Certificate (QLD).

Check with your state transport authority whether your vehicle needs an inspection before you renew the rego.

Buying a used car: what to do?

When you buy a car from a private seller (not a dealer), you need to transfer the registration into your name within a set period after the purchase.

The general steps when buying a used car:

1. Check the vehicle’s history — use the PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) to find out whether the car is under finance or has been reported stolen
2. The seller and buyer both complete the state’s transfer form
3. Visit the transport authority, or do it online, to complete the transfer of registration
4. Pay the transfer fee and stamp duty (a tax based on the value of the vehicle, which varies by state)

If you do not transfer the registration on time, you can be fined and held responsible for any traffic offences committed with that vehicle.

Transferring rego when you move interstate

If you move to another state, you usually need to re-register your vehicle under the rules of the new state within a set period. Each state has its own requirements and process — check with your local transport authority.

Transport authorities by state

Each state has its own authority:

• NSW: Service NSW
• VIC: VicRoads / Department of Transport and Planning
• QLD: Transport and Main Roads (TMR)
• WA: Department of Transport
• SA: Service SA
• TAS: Service Tasmania
• ACT: Access Canberra
• NT: Motor Vehicle Registry

Note: The rules for rego, CTP, and roadworthy inspections vary by state and may change over time. Always check directly with your state transport authority for the most accurate information.