Vehicle registration in Australia can be a complicated process, with rules varying from state to state. In Queensland, you need up-to-date registration in order to drive a vehicle for public road use. However, you can drive one without rego on private property.
It's also legal to let a vehicle's registration expire and to sell a car without rego. This can pose a problem for the new buyer of a used car, though, because if they buy an unregistered vehicle, they cannot drive it home.
Section 20 of the Motor Accident Insurance Act states that individuals cannot drive without compulsory third-party (CTP) insurance, which comes under the car's rego. So, what happens if you buy an unregistered vehicle? This guide covers everything you need to know.
Can You Drive an Unregistered Car to Get It Registered in QLD?
No. Queensland residents used to try and get away with driving an unregistered vehicle away from a sale until they could get it registered. However, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology means that road cameras can detect unregistered vehicles through number plates.
However, you can get an unregistered vehicle permit that allows you to temporarily drive an unregistered car. You can get an unregistered vehicle permit QLD for between one and seven days, with the permit beginning at 12:01am on the first day and expiring at midnight on the last day.
You must take the most direct route possible to your destination and not stop at any other destination along the way, or you are violating the unregistered vehicle permit.
In addition to the unregistered vehicle permit, you need CTP insurance. When you go to get a permit and fill out the application form, you can nominate a licensed insurer so that the car is ready to drive.
Another option is to tow the unregistered vehicle away, which is also permitted as long as you have CTP insurance on the vehicle.
What Happens If You Drive an Unregistered Car in QLD?
There are consequences to driving without rego or an unregistered vehicle permit. Typically, offenders can expect to pay financial penalties, and they may also earn a maximum of 80 penalty units.
It's not a criminal offence to drive an unregistered automobile, but the vehicle may be impounded if the driver has been caught driving unregistered vehicles multiple times. The impoundment law is applicable even if the driver does not own the unregistered car they are caught driving.
To avoid penalties, it's essential to get an unregistered vehicle permit and adhere to the rules.
How Do I Get an Unregistered Vehicle Permit QLD?
If you need an unregistered vehicle permit, QLD offers a relatively straightforward process. You can apply through the online service provided by the Queensland government, by using the VIN number and answering a few questions about the journey and the driver, such as address information. You will also need a valid payment method to pay for the permit and the compulsory third-party insurance.
To get a permit or register a vehicle in person, you can visit the local police station, Magistrates Court, or QGAP office.
The cost of the permit is $36.40 per day plus CTP insurance.
Why Can't I Get an Unregistered Vehicle Permit?
Most automobiles can get a temporary permit, but the vehicle must adhere to several guidelines. There are several instances when a permit cannot be issued. This includes:
- If the vehicle has failed a safety inspection or if it would fail one
- If the number plates are still on the vehicle
- If the vehicle does not have a VIN or chassis number. Vehicles made before 1930 may have an engine number instead, but the person driving has to apply in person.
- If the motor vehicle is left-hand drive and weighs over 4.5t GVM (or if it weighs less and is less than 25 years old)
- If the vehicle is written off
- If there are any safety recalls
Not all vehicles are eligible for a permit. Visit the QLD government website for a complete list of eligible vehicles.
Summary
When purchasing a used motor vehicle in Queensland, it's vital to check if the automobile is registered. When the vehicle has valid rego, you can drive it home with peace of mind. However, many second-hand vehicle owners sell automobiles without valid rego. The vehicle must have valid rego and CTP insurance before you drive it on public roads.
Thankfully, it's easy to get a temporary permit, and you can usually do so online. There are also alternative ways to transport a vehicle without rego, but you must always get CTP coverage to cover any accidents on the journey. Furthermore, number plates must always be removed.
If you plan to purchase a used vehicle in Queensland and want to check its registration status, get a Carify vehicle history report to learn everything you need to know for complete peace of mind.
FAQs
These are our top 5 FAQs. Visit our full FAQ page for more.
1. Can I get an unregistered vehicle permit online?
Yes. Typically, you can get unregistered vehicle permits through the Queensland government's online service. This avoids the need to drive the unregistered vehicle in the meantime. In some instances, however, you must apply for the permit in person. If you are unable to obtain a temporary permit, it may be better to tow the vehicle in question.
2. How do I register a vehicle in Queensland?
You can easily register any motor vehicle in Queensland online. All you need is the VIN number and a safety certificate. If the vehicle does not have an up-to-date safety certificate, you will need an inspection before it can be registered. You also need to pay the necessary registration fees and insurance fees.
3. How can I check a car's registration in Queensland?
Check if a used car has current rego by using a history report. The official government site can tell you the status and expiry date for free, but when you buy second-hand, a history report is much more comprehensive and can tell you everything you need to know about the vehicle's history to give you total peace of mind.
4. Do I need a permit to drive unregistered vehicle QLD?
Yes. If the vehicle lacks current registration, you will either need to renew it or get a temporary permit to drive it. If you plan on making a journey to get the registration (such as if the vehicle needs an inspection), you will need a permit to ensure safety.
5. Can I drive an unregistered car to another state?
No. You need a permit even if you plan to make a journey to another state or location to register the car. Note that if you are making a journey from interstate to Queensland without registration, you must get a permit from the state where the journey begins.
