Last updated: October 2026
You can sell a car for a friend or relative in Victoria, but you need the owner’s clear authority to do it. The buyer has to be sure the person selling has the right to sell, and the owner needs to know the money reaches them. With the right documents in place, it is straightforward.
When People Sell on Someone Else’s Behalf
- The owner lives overseas or interstate.
- The owner is elderly, unwell or has limited mobility.
- The owner works long hours or travels for work.
- Family members are sorting out a car after a death. That has its own process, covered in selling a deceased estate car.
Documents You Need
- A signed letter from the owner authorising you to sell the car, naming you and the car.
- A copy of the owner’s photo ID.
- Your own photo ID.
- The registration papers and all keys.
- Bank details for the owner, so payment goes straight to them.
If the owner has given someone power of attorney, the attorney can sign instead. If there is finance owing, the lender’s payout must be dealt with first. See selling a car with finance.
How We Handle Third Party Sales
- Send photos and details. We give a price straight away and can share it with the owner as well as you.
- We check the authority. We confirm the owner’s consent and ID before buying.
- Payment goes to the owner. By bank transfer to the owner’s account, or as the owner directs in writing.
- Paperwork done on the spot, with a receipt for both of you.
Two Recent Sales
A 2015 Ford Falcon for an owner living overseas. A Melbourne resident was asked by a family member abroad to sell their Falcon. The owner could not attend or sign in person. We worked with the local relative, assessed the car, agreed a fair price, completed the paperwork with the owner’s written authority and paid as the owner directed. The owner was kept informed the whole way.
A 2010 Toyota Corolla for an elderly owner. An elderly woman with limited mobility wanted her daughter to handle the sale of her Corolla. We assessed the car at her home, gave a clear offer, completed the transfer paperwork and arranged collection. Payment went safely to the owner, and she did not have to do anything beyond signing.
Keeping It Fair for Everyone
Agree the minimum price with the owner before you start, keep them updated, and make sure they get the receipt. Selling to a licensed buyer means the paperwork is done correctly and the owner is protected. For a free price, visit our sell my car page.
Third party sales follow the same steps as any other cash for cars sale we complete, with the owner’s written consent added.
Helping a parent who has given up driving? Read our guide on selling an elderly parent’s car in Victoria. Moving abroad yourself? See how to sell your car before moving overseas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sell a car that is not in my name in Victoria?
Yes, with the owner’s written authority, a copy of their photo ID and the registration papers. Someone with power of attorney can also sign for the owner.
Who gets paid when I sell a car for someone else?
The owner. We pay by bank transfer to the owner’s account, or as the owner directs in writing.
Can you buy a car from an owner who lives overseas?
Yes. We work with a local family member or friend who has the owner’s written authority and complete the sale without the owner attending.
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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.