If you have a car sitting in your driveway that has no registration, you might be wondering if you can sell it and how the process works in Queensland. The good news is that you can legally sell an unregistered car, but there are a few important things you should know before doing it. This guide explains everything clearly and simply so you can make the right choice.

Can You Sell an Unregistered Car in Queensland?

Yes, you can sell an unregistered car in Queensland. Many people do it every day for different reasons. However, there are some steps you need to take to make sure the sale is legal and fair for both you and the buyer.

When a vehicle is unregistered, it means it cannot be driven on public roads until it has a current registration and insurance. That is why it is important to let the buyer know about the unregistered status and to complete the sale with proper paperwork.

Why Would You Sell an Unregistered Car?

There are many reasons why a car owner might choose to sell a vehicle that is not registered. Sometimes, the registration has expired, and the owner no longer wants to pay for renewal. In other cases, the car may need repairs before it can pass a safety inspection. Some people also sell unregistered vehicles that have been damaged, used for parts, or simply not needed anymore.

If the cost of getting the car roadworthy again is more than what the car is worth, selling it unregistered can often be the better option. It allows you to recover some money without spending on repairs or new registration.

Do You Need a Safety Certificate?

When selling a registered car in Queensland, a safety certificate (also called a roadworthy certificate) is usually required. However, if your car is unregistered, you do not need to provide a safety certificate for the sale. The new owner will need to get one when they decide to register the vehicle in their name.

Even though it is not mandatory, having a recent inspection report can make the sale smoother and give buyers confidence in the car’s condition.

How to Sell an Unregistered Car Legally

Selling an unregistered car is simple if you follow a few key steps.

Step 1: Be Honest About the Car’s Status

You must tell the buyer that the car is unregistered. This should be mentioned clearly in any advertisement and in your discussions with the buyer. Being upfront helps avoid misunderstandings or disputes later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Paperwork

Even though the car is not registered, you still need to provide proof of ownership. Prepare a simple receipt that includes both your details and the buyer’s details. Write down the make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the car, along with the sale price and date. Both parties should sign and keep a copy of the receipt.

This document will act as proof of sale and protect both parties in case there are questions later about ownership.

Step 3: Handle the Number Plates

If the car still has number plates on it, you should remove them before selling the car. Return them to your local Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) office to cancel the registration officially. This ensures you will not be held responsible for any fines or tolls that might occur after the sale.

Step 4: Sort Out Transport for the Car

An unregistered vehicle cannot legally be driven on public roads in Queensland unless it has a temporary permit. If the buyer wants to drive the car to their home or a workshop, they will need to apply for an Unregistered Vehicle Permit (UVP). This temporary permit allows the car to be driven for a short time for a specific purpose, such as getting it inspected or taken to another property.

If the car is not roadworthy, towing it is often the safest and easiest option.

Step 5: Inform the Buyer About the Next Steps

The buyer will be responsible for registering the car in their name if they wish to drive it on the road. They will need to arrange a safety certificate, pay the registration fees, and take care of compulsory third-party insurance. It helps to explain this clearly to avoid confusion after the sale.

How Much Can You Get for an Unregistered Car?

The price of an unregistered car depends on its condition, make, model, and demand in the market. Cars that are in good running condition but simply out of registration can still attract decent offers. However, if the vehicle is damaged, old, or not running, you may get less.

In some cases, selling to a car removal or cash-for-cars company is the easiest option. They often buy unregistered, damaged, and scrap cars and handle all the paperwork for you. This can save time and stress, especially if you are not looking to deal with private buyers.

What Should the Buyer Know Before Purchasing an Unregistered Car?

From the buyer’s point of view, purchasing an unregistered vehicle means they will have to invest more time and money before it can be legally used on the road. They must be prepared to get a safety certificate, arrange insurance, and pay for registration.

Buyers should also check the car’s history using the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) to make sure it is not stolen or under finance. This quick check protects them from legal or financial issues later.

Can You Drive an Unregistered Car to Be Sold?

No, you cannot drive an unregistered vehicle on public roads in Queensland. Doing so can result in fines and penalties. The only exception is if you have an Unregistered Vehicle Permit. This permit allows limited use of the car for specific purposes such as transport to an inspection or repair shop.

Always ensure the permit is valid for the trip and that you have temporary insurance cover.

What Happens After the Sale?

Once the car is sold, keep a copy of the receipt or agreement for your records. This is proof that you no longer own the vehicle. If you have returned the number plates and cancelled the registration, you should be completely released from any responsibility for the car.

If you sold it to a car removal service, they will usually handle all of this for you and provide written confirmation of the sale.

Tips for a Smooth Sale

Selling an unregistered car does not have to be stressful. Keeping communication clear and being upfront about the condition of the car makes all the difference. Always complete the sale in writing and make sure the buyer understands what they are purchasing.

Take photos before handing over the car to have a record of its condition. This is a good safety measure in case any disputes arise later.

If you are unsure about the process, visit your nearest Department of Transport and Main Roads office or their website to confirm the latest rules.

Selling an unregistered car in Queensland is perfectly legal, but it comes with responsibilities. The main things to remember are to be honest about the car’s status, prepare proper paperwork, remove or cancel the plates, and ensure the buyer understands what is involved.

Whether you are selling privately or to a removal company, doing things the right way protects both you and the buyer. It also makes the process simple, legal, and stress-free.

If you no longer need your old unregistered car, selling it is a great way to free up space and make some extra cash. With the right steps and information, you can complete the sale confidently and without any problems.