When can you drive an unregistered vehicle legally?
You can only drive an unregistered vehicle if you're going to get it registered.
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
Whether you're driving to obtain a pink slip (registration renewal) or a blue slip (unregistered vehicle inspection), you are legally permitted to drive your unregistered vehicle on the road. However, keep in mind:
- 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.
"Driving an unregistered vehicle can incur serious fines if you're flagged en route. When I was on my way to complete my blue slip for my unregistered car, I was pulled over and asked to confirm that I was travelling to my most local mechanic. Usually, I see a mechanic about 20km from home, but I'd luckily checked the rules about driving an unregistered vehicle beforehand and booked the closest possible mechanic for this occasion. I also had an email confirming my booked time which proved handy when verifying where I was travelling to."
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
More resources on Finder
Ask a question
2 Responses
More guides on Finder
-
What is the cost of a commute?
The average Australian spends $112 on commuting costs every week. How much could you be saving by switching to public transport?
-
Blue Slip NSW
Your guide to Blue Slips.
-
Car Insurance ACT
Living in the ACT? Here’s all you need to know about car insurance.
-
Car insurance excess, explained.
Your comprehensive guide to car insurance excess, what it is and when it needs to be paid.
-
Suncorp car insurance review
Suncorp’s benefit limits are high in comparison to many other providers, but its policies are more expensive than most.
-
APIA car insurance
APIA car insurance is issued by AAI Limited and offers 3 levels of cover, a range of discounts and a lifetime guarantee on repairs.
-
Rideshare car insurance
Find out what car insurance options are available for rideshare drivers, including Ubers.
-
Learner driver insurance
Complete guide to getting car insurance for learner drivers in Australia.
-
GIO car insurance review
GIO offers strong cover at a low price. However, drivers in QLD, SA and TAS will have to look elsewhere.
-
Switching car insurance
Is it time to make the switch? If you're not happy with your current car insurance provider then the answer might be yes.
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