Your guide to getting new car plates interstate

How to Order a New Car Number Plate While Buying Cars in Different States

Planning to buy a car online from a different state in Australia and not sure how to order a new number plate? Australia is a big country, and purchasing a car from a different state that we live at can mean dealing with state-specific regulations. Research and understanding of these regulations and the differences will ensure that the whole car buying experience and registration process goes smoothly.

State-Specific Requirements

Buying a car could be an exciting process but aside from all the excitement there are important points to consider. As Australia does not have a uniform system for car registration across its states it is essential to research specific laws and regulations for the state we want to purchase our car from. 

Let’s take New South Wales (NSW) for example. NSW assigns new number plates when a car is registered, and the existing interstate plates are required to be surrendered. On the other hand, Victoria or Tasmania are not as strict as NSW and they allow you to keep your personalized or special plates. 

Choosing Your Number Plate

Have you ever thought of having a date special to you, or a word as your car’s number plate? Well, you can. Each state offers a variety of number plate options, it is possible for you to make your unique one, but these additional options normally come with an additional fee, and sometimes could take longer than regular plates to be issued. 

Preparing Necessary Documentation

Like every other legal matter, registering your new car and obtaining a number plate also requires legal documentation such as proof or your purchase, identification and proof of insurance. When transferring a vehicle from another state, some additional documents such as an inspection certificate might be required. For states like NSW you might need a Blue Slip for an unregistered vehicle, when in Victoria a Roadworthy Certificate is necessary. Make sure you always check the official sites and all the requirements to make the process smooth, faster and more pleasant.  

Visiting your local Department of Transport

The next step after you prepare the necessary documentation, is visiting your local Department of Transport to complete your new car registration. States like NSW, Queensland or Victoria if you want to avoid long waits, and we know you do, it is recommended that you book an appointment beforehand, especially when transferring registration from another state. Every state has its own authority and its own rules, for example for NSW it would be Roads and Maritime Services (RMS), for Victoria - VicRoads, for Western Australia it is Department of Transport. Check if you need an inspection, or any other additional documents beforehand to save you time and some potential headaches at the registration office.

Completing the Registration Process

After submitting your documents and paying all the fees and taxes that need to be paid, you will finally be issued new number plates and complete the registration of your car in your home state. Some states like NSW will ask you to give up your old number plate right away when some other states like South Australia will allow you to drive on your old number plates for up to 3 months before the transfer. 

To buy a car from another state is a complex process, but if you research and prepare it can be smooth, fast and pleasant.