If you need to renew your registration but your policy expiry date has passed, don't panic. There are ways to renew an expired registration, but if you have been driving without it, you may be fined.
Here's how to renew an expired registration.
How Do I Renew Expired Registration?
Each state or territory in Australia has different methods for registering a vehicle. You can find out how to register a vehicle in different states by going to your local transport authority's website. Or, check out our guide to car registration in Australia.
In New South Wales, for example, you can renew your vehicle registration within three months of expiration. Late renewal means that the new registration period begins on the payment date, but the expiry date remains the same, so you don't get a full year of rego.
Meanwhile, in Western Australia, if the renewal period extends past three months, you are required to turn in your number plates and have the vehicle inspected.
Late registration renewal is therefore different in each state and territory, so make sure you research what's required in your locality.
Typically, it's a straightforward process that involves entering your car's details online, and then paying for a new rego. You can pay the fee using a variety of payment options, and you may need to pay an additional late fee depending on where you live. Then, you will obtain a new registration certificate and can drive on the road again.
Can I Drive an Unregistered Vehicle?
No. In general, it's illegal to drive an unregistered vehicle under any circumstances. Chances are, you won't get away with it, either.
Typically, you will receive a renewal notice as the expiry date approaches. This should give you ample time to pay and renew. However, if the date passes and you're still driving, there is a high risk you could be fined.
In many parts of the country, including South Australia, traffic cameras on the road can detect unregistered vehicles via the number plates. Drivers can be sent notices of fines, so it's essential to renew your vehicle's registration before it expires.
The consequences are more severe for those who crash while driving an unregistered vehicle. Without CTP insurance, you are financially liable for any personal injuries to those involved.
In some select circumstances, you can get an unregistered vehicle permit. In states where the car must undergo inspection before registration renewal, you may be able to drive the car to get the registration renewed.
For example, in New South Wales, if your registration expires and you need an inspection, you can apply for an unregistered vehicle permit (UVP). This allows you to drive to a service station or weighbridge if you need to check the gross vehicle mass. However, you must remove the number plates and take the most direct route.
How to Check Registration Status
If you are unsure about your current vehicle's registration, or if you are buying a used car and wondering if it's registered, there are a few ways you can check the rego.
Firstly, you can head to the website of your local transport authority. It's easy to get a free rego check by entering the car details. Although this is good if you want to quickly check the registration, it will only tell you if the car is registered and when the current registration expires. You may also see details about the CTP insurer.
It cannot tell you any more details about the registration, such as the current driver or their address or contact details.
Check the Rego of a Second-Hand Car
If you are buying a second-hand car and want to know if it's registered, there are a few ways to go about it. Firstly, you can ask the person for a copy of their rego certificate; if they don't have one, you can ask them to get a replacement registration certificate.
Alternatively, you can use the method above and check the number plates on the local government site. Again, this can only tell you the current registration status and if it was cancelled or expired.
You can also get a full vehicle history report from Carify, which will give you details on the vehicle registration, CTP insurance, damage history, stolen history, and even a safety check. This is the most comprehensive way to ensure you aren't driving away from a purchase in an illegal, unregistered vehicle.
Final Thoughts: Renewing Expired Rego
Generally, you should not be driving without valid registration. You should receive a renewal notice reminding you of the due date, ensuring that you don't miss the expiry and can refresh your registration period for the next year.
Driving an unregistered vehicle is illegal and can warrant hefty fines, so it's important to avoid doing so wherever possible. If you are unsure of your rego expiry date, you can check online quickly and easily.
However, if you are buying a used vehicle and want to know about its current policy and due date, a comprehensive vehicle history report can give you want you need.
FAQs
The top questions on driving an unregistered vehicle. Visit our FAQ page for more.
1. What Happens if I Pay My Rego Late?
There is often a grace period that means you won't be charged if you renewed within 30 days of the expiry date. However, you may be fined if you are driving without valid registration. Furthermore, if you drive beyond the grace period without CTP insurance, you could be paying hefty fines.
2. What Happens if Your Rego Lapses?
When your registration runs out, nothing happens if you are not driving. However, if it ran out more than 3 months ago, you are required to turn in your number plates.
3. Can I Drive My Car on the Rego Expiry Date?
Registration expires at midnight on the expiry date. You can, therefore, drive on the expiry date up to 11:59 pm.
