Cash for Unregistered Car

An Unregistered Vehicle Permit (UVP) is a legal document from VicRoads that allows you to drive an unregistered vehicle on the road for a specific purpose. The most common reasons to apply for a UVP include preparing the vehicle for registration in Victoria, making a single trip or journey, or using construction or tracked vehicles. You cannot use a UVP for general driving or daily transport.

Yes, it is perfectly legal to sell an unregistered car in Victoria. Unlike registered vehicles sold privately, an unregistered car can be sold without a Roadworthy Certificate. However, you must be honest with the buyer about the vehicle's unregistered status. If you are selling more than four cars per year without a dealer licence, you may be considered an unlicensed trader and face penalties.

Before buying any unregistered vehicle, you should perform a VicRoads vehicle status check to ensure the car is not stolen, has no money owing on it, and is not listed on the written-off vehicles register. You should also verify that the registration plate, vehicle identification number (VIN), and engine numbers match the details obtained through your VicRoads check. Always obtain a valid receipt of sale from the seller with their name, address, and all vehicle identification details.

When you buy an unregistered car, you will be responsible for arranging and paying for three main things: a new Roadworthy Certificate (which requires the car to pass a safety inspection), registration fees, and new number plates. You may also need to pay stamp duty based on the vehicle's market value. These costs can add up significantly, so factor them into your purchase budget.

Yes, but only if you obtain an Unregistered Vehicle Permit from VicRoads before driving. This permit typically only allows the car to be driven to your home or to a licensed vehicle tester during set times of the day. You cannot drive the car for any other purpose, and you must follow all conditions stated on the permit.

You can apply for a UVP online through the VicRoads website. You will need to read all the information about permit types, decide which permit you need and for how long, have your personal and vehicle information ready (including VIN, chassis, or engine number), fill out the online form, and pay the required fee. Once payment is confirmed, you can download the permit immediately. Be careful only to use the official VicRoads website (www.vicroads.vic.gov.au) and avoid unauthorised third-party sites that charge inflated prices.

This depends on your local council rules. For example, in the City of Casey, residents can store up to one unregistered vehicle that is visible from a public space without a permit. Storing more than one unregistered vehicle may require a Private Land Use Permit from your council. Some councils have impounded vehicles from properties that did not have the required permits, so check with your local council before storing multiple unregistered cars.

Buying from a private seller offers less legal protection than buying from a licensed motor car trader. There is no cooling-off period, the car is not covered by statutory warranty, and you cannot claim compensation from the Motor Car Traders Guarantee Fund if something goes wrong. Be especially wary if the asking price is significantly below market value, the seller asks for cash payment, or the seller seems reluctant to provide proper identification or documentation.

Yes, licensed motor car traders (LMCTs) and other eligible businesses can apply for trade plates from VicRoads, which allow them to legally drive unregistered vehicles on the road as part of their trade. Trade plates are white with black characters and can only be used by the permit holder or their employees. You cannot transfer or loan trade plates to any other person or business. If you are buying from a dealer who uses trade plates to deliver an unregistered car to you, this is generally acceptable as long as the dealer follows all regulations.