So, you’ve sold your car—great move! Maybe you got cash on the spot, or perhaps you waved goodbye to that rusty old ride and made space in your driveway. But before you pop the champagne, there’s one important step left that many car sellers in Victoria forget: cancelling the registration.
It might not seem like a big deal, but trust us, skipping this step can lead to unwanted surprises like toll fines or rego renewal notices showing up in your name. Don’t worry—we’ll walk you through exactly how to cancel your car registration the easy way.
Why Cancel the Registration?
Once your car is no longer yours, you need to make it official with VicRoads. If the new owner doesn’t transfer the registration (or never plans to), and you don’t cancel it, you could still be legally responsible for anything linked to that vehicle.
Also, if there’s unused rego left, cancelling means you might be eligible for a pro-rata refund—that’s money back in your pocket!
When Should You Cancel It?
Ideally, you should cancel the rego immediately after the sale, especially if:
- You’ve sold the car to a wrecker or recycler
- You’ve scrapped or written off the vehicle
- The buyer is interstate or overseas
- The car is not going to be driven again
If you’ve sold the car to another driver in Victoria who plans to keep using it, they should transfer the rego to their name instead. But if that doesn’t happen quickly, it’s still wise to cancel it yourself.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, make sure you have:
- Proof of identity (e.g. driver’s licence)
- Vehicle details (rego number, VIN, etc.)
- Car number plates (yes, you’ll need to hand them in)
- A completed Vehicle Registration Cancellation form (from VicRoads)
How to Cancel Your Car Registration in Victoria
- Remove the number plates
As soon as the car is sold (and you’re not transferring rego), take off the plates. You’ll need to return them to VicRoads. - Complete the cancellation form
You can download the Vehicle Registration Cancellation form from the VicRoads website. Fill it in with your details and vehicle info. - Return the plates to VicRoads
Take the form and number plates to a VicRoads Customer Service Centre. Some centres let you drop them off without an appointment—check online first. - Get your refund (if eligible)
If your registration had more than 28 days remaining, you might get a refund for the unused portion. The refund usually gets processed via cheque or direct deposit.
What If You’ve Already Sold the Car to a Wrecker?
If your car went to a wrecker or cash-for-cars service, chances are they won’t keep it registered. It’s best to cancel the rego straight away, especially if they’re only using the vehicle for parts or scrap.
Some wreckers might even help you with this step or return the plates on your behalf—just ask!
A Quick Heads-Up
Don’t leave the plates with the buyer or new owner. In VIC, plates belong to the seller, and you are responsible for handing them back to VicRoads when you cancel the registration.
One Last Thing…
Keep a copy of all documents—bill of sale, cancellation form, and anything else—just in case there’s ever a dispute or issue down the line.
Wrapping Up Without the Formal Bits
Cancelling your car registration might feel like a chore, but it’s an easy win that protects you and could even score you a refund. Think of it as the final handshake that says, “This car’s no longer mine.”
If you’ve just sold your car for cash or offloaded it to a wrecker, don’t skip this step. Grab those plates, fill out that form, and tie up the loose ends—it’s one less thing to worry about later.
Need help with the process or unsure about anything? We’re always here to lend a hand.
If you are in Greensborough, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to visit us.
Bundoora Cash For Cars
13 Nickson St, Bundoora VIC 3083