Selling or buying a car in Victoria? One of the most important (and legally required) steps is transferring ownership of the vehicle. It might sound a bit formal or overwhelming, but the truth is—transferring car ownership in Victoria is a pretty straightforward process when you know what’s involved.
Whether you’re handing your old car over to a mate or selling it to a stranger, here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you do it the easy way.
Step 1: Make Sure the Vehicle Has a Valid Roadworthy Certificate (RWC)
In most private sales, the seller is responsible for providing an RWC. This shows the car is safe and ready for the road.
However, there are exceptions. A Roadworthy Certificate isn’t needed if the car is:
- Sold to a licensed motor car trader
- Being transferred between spouses or domestic partners
- Being sold for parts, scrap, or wrecking
If you’re selling to a car removal or scrap service, they don’t usually require an RWC—one of the reasons why people choose this route for older or damaged cars.
Step 2: Complete the Vehicle Transfer Form
Both the seller and buyer need to fill out a Vehicle Transfer Form, which you can get:
- Online from the VicRoads website
- At any VicRoads Customer Service Centre
The form asks for details like:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Odometer reading
- Sale price
- Personal details of both parties
Make sure everything is filled out clearly and correctly—it saves a lot of back-and-forth later.
Step 3: Provide the Buyer With the Right Documents
As the seller, it’s your job to hand over:
- The completed Vehicle Transfer Form
- The RWC (if required)
- A receipt or written agreement confirming the sale
Tip: Always keep a copy of the transfer form and receipt for your own records. It protects you in case the buyer doesn’t transfer the registration straight away.
Step 4: Submit the Notice of Disposal (Seller’s Responsibility)
VicRoads allows you to lodge a Notice of Disposal online via your myVicRoads account. This lets VicRoads know that you’re no longer responsible for the car.
It’s important you do this ASAP after the sale, so you’re not held liable for any tolls, fines, or issues that come up after the car leaves your driveway.
Step 5: Buyer Lodges the Transfer and Pays Fees
The buyer has 14 days from the sale date to complete the transfer with VicRoads. They’ll need to:
- Provide the RWC (unless exempt)
- Pay a motor vehicle duty (calculated based on the sale price)
- Pay a transfer fee
All of this can usually be done online through their myVicRoads account, which makes the process much easier than standing in a queue.
What If You’re Selling to a Car Removal Service?
Here’s the good news: companies that offer cash for cars often handle most of this for you. If you’re selling a car for scrap or wrecking, you typically won’t need an RWC, and the buyer (the car removal service) might even take care of the paperwork and deregistration.
All you’ll need to do is provide basic ID, sign over ownership, and make sure you get a receipt. It’s the hassle-free option, especially for old or damaged vehicles.
Bonus Tips to Keep It Smooth
- Double-check all documents. Small mistakes can cause delays.
- Take a photo of the odometer reading on the day of sale—just in case.
- Don’t cancel your car insurance until the sale is officially complete.
- Remove your toll tags and personal items before handing over the keys.
Done and Dusted
Transferring car ownership in Victoria doesn’t need to be complicated. As long as both buyer and seller follow the basic steps, the process is smooth and stress-free. Whether you’re offloading an old vehicle or upgrading to something new, knowing how it all works puts you in control—and keeps things legal and tidy.
If you are in Mill Park, 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