Last updated: October 2026
Yes, you can sell a car with New South Wales, Queensland or any other interstate registration while you are in Victoria. Interstate plates are not a problem for us. What changes is the paperwork, because the registration cannot simply be transferred into a Victorian owner’s name.
Why Interstate Cars Are Harder to Sell Privately
A Victorian buyer cannot transfer interstate registration. They have to register the car in Victoria, which normally means getting a Victorian roadworthy certificate and paying registration and duty here. That extra cost and effort puts many private buyers off, so interstate cars often sit longer on listing sites or attract lower offers.
What You Need to Sell
- Your photo ID.
- The current or most recent registration papers from the other state.
- Proof of ownership, such as the purchase receipt, if you have it.
- All keys, and the service book if available.
If there is finance owing, we can pay out the lender directly. See selling a car with finance.
What Happens to the Interstate Plates and Registration
Each state has its own rules for ending registration when a car is sold or leaves the state. Usually you either notify the registering authority of the sale or cancel the registration and return the plates. If you cancel, you may be able to claim a refund of unused months. Check your home state’s transport authority for the exact steps, and do it promptly so tolls and fines stop reaching you.
How Selling to Us Works
- Send photos and details. Include the state of registration. We give you a price straight away.
- We come to you. Anywhere in Melbourne or Victoria, with no pickup fee.
- Paid on the spot. Cash, bank transfer or cheque, and we handle our side of the paperwork.
No Victorian roadworthy is needed, and the price holds at pickup unless a major fault was not mentioned. We are licensed in Victoria under LMCT 12395.
Common Situations We See
- People who moved to Victoria and never re-registered their car.
- Cars inherited from family interstate. See selling a deceased estate car.
- Second cars bought interstate that are no longer needed.
- People about to move again who want the car gone first. See selling before an interstate move.
Get a free price on our sell my car page, or see our regional Victoria page if the car is outside Melbourne.
Interstate cars go through the same simple process as every other cash for cars Melbourne sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sell a car with interstate registration in Victoria?
Yes. Victorian Car Buyers buys cars registered in any Australian state. A private Victorian buyer would need to re-register the car here, which is why direct sales are often easier.
Do I need a Victorian roadworthy to sell an interstate car to you?
No. As a licensed motor car trader, we buy interstate registered cars without a roadworthy certificate.
What do I do with the interstate plates after selling?
Follow your home state’s rules, which usually means notifying the sale or cancelling the registration and returning the plates. You may get a refund of unused months.
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About the author: Written by Steve, owner of Victorian Car Buyers, a licensed motor car trader (LMCT 12395) based in Delahey, Melbourne.