You can only drive an unregistered car in Australia if you're heading to get it registered. Make sure you take the most direct route and go to the nearest convenient inspection station.
Driving your unregistered vehicle to get it registered
You must go to the closest possible registration venue.
You must use the shortest and easiest direct route.
You cannot make any stops along the way there or back, for example, stopping off for groceries or taking an unnecessary detour.
Deviation will likely land you a hefty fine.
You might be asked to provide evidence that you're heading over to get your vehicle registered, so keep proof of your appointment or a receipt showing payment for that day to help get you out of any trouble.
What is an Unregistered Vehicle Permit and can I get one?
In certain situations, you may be forced to drive an unregistered vehicle for a limited amount of time for a very specific purpose. This could be the result of purchasing a vehicle interstate and having to drive it back home to get it registered, or it could be a one-off move of a vehicle from one place to another, or you may need to drive your unregistered racecar on the road.
In Australia, you can apply for an Unregistered Vehicle Permit (UVP) at your road and transport authority. This will allow you to undertake a specific journey or set of journeys over a period of up to 28 days. Keep in mind that this is not intended to replace full vehicle registration and any departure from the approved use will result in the usual fees and consequences. As with any car, you must have the proper official proof that your vehicle is in a safe condition following an inspection. You'll be given a permit and a label that you should keep on display at all times.
Finder survey: How many Australians have driven unregistered vehicles?
Response
No
89.26%
Yes
8.25%
I have never driven before
1.79%
Prefer not to answer
0.7%
Source: Finder survey by Pure Profile of 1006 Australians, December 2023
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Typically, no. You can only do so if you're on your way to getting the car registered.
Yes, you're permitted to drive an unregistered car to the nearest inspection station to get a blue slip.
Alexandra Koster is Finder's publisher for car, home and pet insurance. She has a Tier 1 certification in General Insurance, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Cultural Studies from the University of Sydney. Her hobbies include reading Product Disclosure Statements and deciphering complicated insurance lingo to help people save on their insurance so that they can spend their money on better things – like dogs.
A Short Term Unregistered Vehicle Permit (Tasmania) includes third party insurance. Can I add 3rd party property to this? How much would it cost and what would it cover?
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A Short Term Unregistered Vehicle Permit (Tasmania) includes third party insurance. Can I add 3rd party property to this? How much would it cost and what would it cover?
Hi Carol,
It’s best to contact the provider directly about this, to see if they’ll let you extend the policy so that it meets your needs.
Regards,
James