How To Transfer Rego In NSW (Buyer & Seller Guide)
Buying or selling a car in New South Wales? One of the most important steps is transferring the vehicle registration, commonly known as “rego“. It’s more than just a formality — if you skip it, you could end up with a fine, extra costs, or even liability issues.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about transferring registration in NSW for both buyers and sellers.
Understanding Vehicle Registration Transfer in NSW
Transferring rego simply means changing the ownership details of a vehicle in the eyes of Service NSW. Once a car is sold, the new owner must be registered officially to take legal responsibility for the vehicle.
This applies whether you’re buying from a private seller, a dealer, or receiving the car as a gift or inheritance.
Rego Transfer Process for Private Vehicle Sales
Step-by-Step for the Seller
- Provide the buyer with the necessary documents:
- Registration certificate
- Proof of purchase (receipt or contract)
- Notice of Disposal (lodged online or in person)
- Lodge a Notice of Disposal online at Service NSW to avoid any future fines or tolls.
- Cancel e-Toll if needed, especially if your tag was linked to the car.
Step-by-Step for the Buyer
- Obtain a signed receipt from the seller, including vehicle details and both parties’ IDs.
- Arrange CTP insurance (Green Slip) in your name before the transfer.
- Transfer the rego online through your Service NSW account or in person within 14 days.
Documents Required to Transfer Rego in NSW
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Proof of identity (Driver’s licence or NSW Photo Card)
- Proof of purchase (receipt or contract)
- Safety check (pink slip) — required if the vehicle is more than 5 years old
- CTP Insurance in the buyer’s name
How to Transfer Rego Online in NSW
The easiest way to transfer rego is online:
- Log in to your Service NSW account.
- Go to “Transfer Registration”.
- Enter the vehicle details and upload the required documents.
- Pay any applicable transfer fees and stamp duty.
- Receive confirmation — no need to visit in person if everything checks out.
Note: The seller must have lodged the Notice of Disposal first.
How to Transfer Rego in Person
Prefer doing it the traditional way?
- Visit your nearest Service NSW Centre.
- Bring all required documents.
- Fill out the “Application for Transfer of Registration” form.
- Pay fees on the spot.
- Get your new rego papers printed.
In-person is handy if there are complications like:
- Joint ownership
- Lost documentation
- Needing help from the staff
Timeframe to Transfer Registration
The NSW government gives 14 days from the date of sale to transfer rego.
What happens if you’re late?
- $173 late fee (subject to change)
- Possible fine from RMS
- The vehicle could remain under the seller’s name, leading to toll or fine issues
Transfer Fees and Costs
Transfer fee:
- Around $36 as of 2025
Stamp Duty:
- 3% of the vehicle’s sale price or market value (whichever is higher)
- Example: $15,000 vehicle = $450 in stamp duty
Pro tip: Use NSW Stamp Duty Calculator to estimate costs.
What Happens If You Don’t Transfer Rego?
Skipping this step can cause a heap of issues:
- The seller may receive your speeding fines or toll notices
- Buyer can’t prove ownership
- Insurance may be void
- You may face legal action if the vehicle is involved in an incident
Selling a Vehicle with Outstanding Rego Issues
Got unpaid fines or unresolved inspections? They must be cleared before transfer.
How to check your rego status:
Transferring Rego When Buying from a Dealer
Dealerships usually handle most of the paperwork, including:
- CTP setup
- Stamp duty calculation
- Lodging transfer details
But don’t assume it’s all done. Confirm the rego has been transferred to your name, especially for used cars.
Transferring Rego for Inherited Vehicles or Gifts
In these cases:
- No sale price? You may still have to pay stamp duty.
- Gifted vehicles from family members may qualify for exemptions.
- Additional documents, like a Statutory Declaration or Will, may be needed.
Tips to Avoid Rego Transfer Scams
- Never accept a car without a written receipt.
- Cross-check the rego and VIN with the NSW registry.
- Avoid cash-only deals — traceable payments are safer.
- Use the official Service NSW portal for all transfers.
Final Checklist for Buyers and Sellers
For Buyers:
- ✅ Get a signed receipt
- ✅ Get a pink slip (if needed)
- ✅ Arrange CTP in your name
- ✅ Transfer rego within 14 days
For Sellers:
- ✅ Provide clear proof of sale
- ✅ Lodge Notice of Disposal
- ✅ Cancel any linked toll tags or accounts
Whether you’re buying your first car or selling your old one, transferring the rego in NSW is a simple but crucial step. Stick to the rules, lodge everything on time, and avoid common traps — and you’ll stay on the right side of the law (and your wallet!).
FAQs
1. Can I drive a car before the rego is transferred?
Yes — but only if the CTP insurance is active and the transfer is done within 14 days.
2. How do I transfer rego interstate?
You’ll need to cancel your NSW rego and apply for a new one in your current state. Don’t forget to hand in the number plates!
3. Do I need a pink slip for every transfer?
Only if the vehicle is over 5 years old or registration is due.
4. What if I lost the sale receipt?
Both parties should write a Statutory Declaration and provide it to Service NSW.
5. Can I delay the rego transfer?
Technically yes, but you’ll face late fees and legal risks — so it’s best not to.
