So, you’ve just sold your car or maybe bought one — congrats! But before you put your feet up and call it a day, there’s one important thing left to do: transfer the ownership.
In Victoria, transferring car ownership isn’t complicated, but you’ve got to get it right to avoid future headaches like unexpected fines, toll charges, or insurance confusion. Whether you’re the buyer or the seller, here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to make the process quick and stress-free.
1. What Does ‘Transferring Ownership’ Actually Mean?
It’s basically the process of updating VicRoads records to show who owns the vehicle now. This makes the new owner legally responsible for registration, roadworthy compliance, and any fines or tolls moving forward.
It also protects the seller — if you don’t transfer properly, you could still be on the hook if the new owner breaks the rules or racks up penalties.
2. Things You’ll Need Before Starting
Before you begin the transfer, make sure you’ve got the following ready:
- Vehicle details (registration number, VIN or chassis number)
- Driver licence or proof of identity
- Roadworthy Certificate (RWC) if required
- Payment details for any fees or motor vehicle duty
- Vehicle Transfer Form (if doing it manually)
3. Online vs In-Person: Choose Your Method
Online Transfer (Recommended)
VicRoads allows both parties to do the entire transfer online. It’s faster, easier, and you can do it from your couch.
Seller steps:
- Log in to VicRoads’ website
- Select “Vehicle Transfer”
- Enter buyer’s details and the date of sale
- Submit the transfer
You’ll get a reference number — keep this safe as proof.
Buyer steps:
- Log in and accept the transfer
- Upload the Roadworthy Certificate
- Pay the transfer fee and motor vehicle duty (if applicable)
Once both sides complete the steps, VicRoads updates the records, and you’re done.
Manual Transfer (Paper Form)
If either party prefers the old-school way, you can fill out a Vehicle Transfer Form [Vicroads form F2348], available from VicRoads or most post offices.
Both buyer and seller fill in and sign the form. The buyer then takes the completed form to a VicRoads Customer Service Centre along with the RWC and payment.
Just make sure the form is submitted within 14 days of the sale to avoid late fees.
4. Do You Need a Roadworthy Certificate (RWC)?
Yes — in most cases.
If you’re selling a registered vehicle in Victoria, the seller must provide a current Roadworthy Certificate. It must be no more than 30 days old on the date of sale.
Exceptions:
- The car is unregistered
- You’re transferring to a spouse or domestic partner
- You’re selling to a licensed motor car trader
If you’re unsure, check with VicRoads or ask your buyer what their plans are.
5. Paying Transfer Fees and Duties
The buyer is responsible for:
- Transfer fee (a standard fee to VicRoads)
- Motor vehicle duty, which is calculated based on the market value of the car
In 2024, motor vehicle duty is around $8.40 per $200 of market value (but this may vary).
You can calculate the cost on VicRoads’ website using their duty calculator.
6. Cancel Rego or Remove the Plates?
If the vehicle is being sold unregistered, the seller should return the number plates to VicRoads and cancel the rego.
If it’s a registered sale, you don’t need to remove the plates — they stay on the car and are transferred with the ownership.
7. Why It’s Important to Do It Properly
We’ve had customers tell us nightmare stories — fines showing up months later, toll charges from the new owner, or rego renewal notices for a car they sold six months ago.
Properly transferring ownership protects both the buyer and the seller from all that mess. It also ensures the vehicle is covered under the right insurance and meets legal requirements in Victoria.
One More Thing to Keep in Mind
If you’re selling a car that’s not running, unregistered, or not worth the cost of repairs — getting it roadworthy just to transfer it might not be worth it. That’s where car removal services like ours can save you time and money.
We buy cars in any condition — no RWC needed, no registration required. We’ll even come pick it up the same day and pay you cash on the spot.
Worth Remembering
Transferring car ownership in Victoria isn’t hard — but it does need to be done right. A few quick steps online or with a simple form can save you a whole lot of trouble later.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to get rid of a car that’s seen better days, staying on top of the paperwork gives you peace of mind.
Got a car you’re ready to let go of? We’re here to help — no roadworthy, no hassle, just cash and free removal.
If you are in Donvale, and looking for a car removal service, this is the best way to visit us.
20A Station St, Bayswater VIC 3153