So, you’ve sold your car for cash—nice one! That’s a big thing ticked off the list. But before you kick back and celebrate, there’s one more step you don’t want to overlook: dealing with your car’s number plates.
It might seem like a small detail, but knowing what to do with those plates can save you headaches later. Let’s walk through it so you don’t get caught out.
First Things First: Are You Keeping or Cancelling the Rego?
When you sell your car to a private buyer, the plates usually stay on the vehicle. But when you’re selling it to a wrecker or cash-for-cars service, you often need to remove the plates because the car will likely be deregistered, recycled, or scrapped.
Ask the buyer (especially if it’s a wrecker) what they expect. In most cases, you’ll need to remove the plates yourself before the tow truck arrives.
Step-by-Step: What to Do with the Plates
Here’s what to do once those plates are off:
1. Return the Plates to VicRoads
In Victoria, if you cancel the rego or your car has been scrapped, VicRoads requires you to return the plates.
- You can return them in person at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre.
- Or, you can post them back (with a cancellation form) to: VicRoads, GPO Box 1644, Melbourne VIC 3001
Don’t forget—if you’re posting, it’s smart to send them via registered mail just for peace of mind.
2. Cancel the Registration
If your car has been sold to a wrecker or is no longer drivable, you’ll want to cancel the registration. This stops future fees and ensures you’re no longer responsible for the vehicle.
- You can cancel your rego online via your myVicRoads account.
- You’ll need your driver’s licence details and the vehicle registration number.
- VicRoads may ask for a written reason (like “sold to wrecker”).
If there’s any unused registration time left, you might even be eligible for a refund on the rego and remaining TAC insurance—bonus!
3. Remove Your e-TAG or Toll Account
If you’ve been using toll roads, make sure to remove any toll tag and log into your account to delete the sold car. That way, you won’t be billed for someone else’s road trip.
4. Keep Proof of Sale
Even after handing over the car, always hang onto your receipt or proof of sale. This helps if there are any future issues (like someone using your plates without your knowledge).
Why This Matters
Skipping this step might not seem like a big deal—until you get a fine in the mail for a car you no longer own. Returning your plates and cancelling rego protects you legally and financially.
It’s also the right way to finalise the sale and officially close that chapter.
One Last Thing Before You Forget
When selling your car for cash, it’s not just about handing over the keys. Taking care of your number plates is a quick task that can save you big headaches later.
So next time you’re saying goodbye to your old car, just remember: plates off, form in, peace of mind sorted.
Need help with the process? Reach out to your local wrecker or VicRoads—or even us—and we’ll guide you through it step by step.
If you are in Montrose, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to visit us.
20A Station St, Bayswater VIC 3153