Paperwork Checklist: Selling a Car in the ACT

Selling a car in the Australian Capital Territory involves legal obligations that protect both buyer and seller. Getting the paperwork right ensures a smooth transaction. Here is your complete checklist.

1. Notice of Disposal (NOD)

For an ACT-registered sale, record the buyer and vehicle details and submit the notice of disposal to Access Canberra. Keep a copy and the sale receipt. The buyer must complete the registration steps relevant to them; a purchase receipt does not itself replace a notice or transfer application.

2. Registration Certificate

Provide the current (or most recent) registration certificate to the buyer. The certificate confirms the vehicle's registered details — make, model, VIN, and registered owner.

3. Photo Identification

Both parties present valid photo ID at the time of sale (such as an ACT driver's licence or passport) to verify the transaction details.

4. Roadworthy Certificate (Vehicle Safety Check)

Canberra Car Buyer buys cars without requiring you to obtain a roadworthy certificate (RWC). No repairs are needed before selling to us. Our vehicle assessment is for the buying offer, not a roadworthy inspection. Ownership checks and any applicable registration or disposal paperwork are separate. General registration or private-sale requirements should not be confused with our buying policy.

5. Licence Plates

For a vehicle sold with current ACT registration, leave the numberplates on the vehicle and submit the notice of disposal. Cancellation is a separate process with different plate requirements. If the vehicle is being sold unregistered or for dismantling, confirm the agreed registration arrangements and any cancellation or refund eligibility with Access Canberra. Keep the sale receipt and a copy of the documents you submit.

6. PPSR Check

A PPSR search shows whether any active security interest or encumbrance is registered against a vehicle's VIN. Checking this gives buyers confidence regarding vehicle finance status.

Quick Reference Summary

Confirm the vehicle's ownership and registration status, record the buyer's details and keep the purchase receipt. Follow the notice-of-disposal steps for a registered sale. If registration will be cancelled, confirm plate surrender and refund eligibility separately with Access Canberra.