Proof of registration entitlement
Find out what documents you need to prove how a vehicle came into your possession. Then you can register the vehicle in your name.
Proof of registration entitlement
When you apply for NSW registration of a vehicle not currently registered in NSW, or want to transfer registration into your name, you need to prove how the vehicle came into your possession or management.
You can do this by providing proof of registration entitlement.
Acceptable proof of entitlement
You must provide one of the following. There must be no alterations. Documents must be completed in pen or ink.
If you’re registering the vehicle in the name of a person who is not listed in the proof of entitlement document, you must provide a letter of authorisation from the person named in the entitlement document. The letter must state the name and address of the person who is going to be the registered operator.
In some instances, the vehicle cannot be registered in a different name, see notes below.
Paper Certificate of Registration (NSW, interstate or overseas)
An original paper Certificate of Registration signed by the last registered operator that includes:
- seller’s name and address
- buyer’s name, address and signature
- date the vehicle was sold
- selling price or market value of the vehicle (whichever is higher)
- registration number and VIN or chassis number of the vehicle.
Note: Interstate application forms are not acceptable.
If the vehicle is registered in 2 names, the primary (first listed) registered operator’s signature is required.
Notice of Disposal
An original Notice of Disposal signed by the last registered operator. If the vehicle is registered in 2 names, the primary (first listed) registered operator’s signature is required.
We also accept a Notice of Disposal that has been submitted by the previous operator. They can do this online and email you the lodgement receipt. If eligible, you can transfer the registration online.
Proof of purchase
An original letter, bill of sale, receipt or tax invoice that includes:
- seller’s name, address and signature
- buyer’s name, address and signature (not required for small trailers bought from retail outlets)
- date the vehicle was sold
- selling price or market value of the vehicle (whichever is higher)
- vehicle registration and VIN/Chassis numbers.
Motor dealer notice
A copy of the Form 5: Motor Dealer's Notice for Motor Vehicles that must be signed by the motor dealer.
Motor dealer sales contract
An original document fully executed and any ‘cooling off’ period must have lapsed and be clearly identified on the contract of sale.
Financial agreement
An original document made under the Family Law Act 1975 sections 90B, 90C or 90D and certified in accordance with section 90G of the Act.
Note: Vehicle must be registered in the name of the person or entity named on the financial agreement.
Termination agreement
An original document made within the meaning of section 44 of the Property (Relationships) Act 1984 and certified in accordance with section 47 of the Act.
Note: Vehicle must be registered in the name of the person or entity named on the termination agreement.
Court order
An original document issued by a local or federal court.
Note: Vehicle must be registered in the name of the person or entity named on the court document.
Court orders from a finance company are only accepted for repossessed vehicles acquired by finance companies as a result of court action. It must be an original court order.
Statutory Declaration
This is only accepted for repossessed vehicles without court action. You must provide an original statutory declaration from the finance company stating the circumstances of how the vehicle was acquired.
Proof of registration entitlement form
This form is only accepted for homemade or new trailers. The proof of registration entitlement form must be an original document completed at a service centre at the time of registration.
Deceased estates
If the vehicle has been bequeathed to you, we require an original document of one of the following:
- will or probate
- letters of administration
- written advice from the executor of an estate
- letter from NSW Trustee and Guardian.
The document provided must show the vehicle was bequeathed to you.
If you buy a vehicle from a deceased estate, you need to show proof of purchase.
Find out more about deceased estates.