Transferring rego in NSW — the 14-day clock most buyers miss

In NSW you have 14 days from the date of sale to transfer registration into your name. Miss it and you'll cop a $194 late transfer fee plus interest on the stamp duty. Here's the full process.

Documents the seller must give you

• Signed Application for Transfer of Registration (form 1010) OR completed online transfer.
• Current registration certificate.
• Receipt showing the sale price (you'll need it for stamp duty).
• Proof the car is theirs to sell — license matching name on rego papers.

Stamp duty (motor vehicle duty)

• Cars up to $44,999: $3 per $100 of the price.
• Cars $45,000+: $1,350 + $5 per $100 above $45,000.
• EVs: stamp duty exemption ENDED 1 January 2024 — full duty applies in 2026.
• Example: $25,000 used Mazda = $750 stamp duty.

Online vs in-person

Online via Service NSW (mySNSW app) is the smoother option — 10 minutes if both parties have linked accounts. In person at a Service Centre takes 30-60 minutes and a parking ticket.

What can hold a transfer up

• Rego is expired — sort a new Pink Slip first.
• Outstanding tolls or fines on the rego.
• PPSR-listed encumbrance (finance owing).
• Mismatch between buyer's licence address and proof of address.
• Personalised plates — transfer separately via TfNSW.

Common questions

Is the PPI report legally required for transfer?

No. Only the Pink Slip (if rego is due) and stamp duty receipt. The PPI is for your protection, not TfNSW's.

What if the seller is interstate?

Get a witnessed transfer form posted to you (or DocuSigned), then transfer via Service NSW online with the proof of purchase.