Private Sale Guide · South Australia

Buying a Car Privately in South Australia

What to check, what it costs, and how it works when finance is involved. Want a checklist tailored to your exact situation instead? Try our free interactive guide.

General guide only. Laws, fees and rules change from time to time and differ between states and territories. Always confirm the current requirements with the relevant state or territory authority before you buy or sell.

Roadworthy & Safety Certificate

Generally NOT required for a private sale of a light vehicle - can be sold 'as is', with roadworthiness responsibility shifting to the buyer.

An inspection IS required for: heavy vehicles/trailers (GVM/ATM over 4.5t) that are 3+ years old changing ownership; a 'vehicle identity inspection' if identity details can't be matched; certain interstate-registered vehicle transfers (if registering under a different name, or rego expired 3+ months ago).

Transferring Registration

Deadline14 daysfrom the sale date
Lodged byBuyer
MethodOnline via mySA GOV/EzyReg (free), or in person at a Service SA centre, or by post (fee applies for centre/post).
Late feeA late fee applies if you miss the deadline - check the current amount with South Australia's transport authority.

Stamp Duty & Fees

Stamp duty is based on: Purchase price OR market value, whichever is HIGHER. It's payable by the buyer.

Non-commercial vehicles: ≤$1,000 = $1 per $100 (min $5); $1,000-$2,000 = $10 + $2 per $100 over $1,000; $2,000-$3,000 = $30 + $3 per $100 over $2,000; >$3,000 = $60 + $4 per $100 over $3,000.

Transfer fee: the current figure on South Australia's transport authority

Possible concessionsSpouse/domestic partner transfers (or former spouse/partner), Deceased-estate transfers to a beneficiary, Interstate vehicle transferred into SA in the same owner's name, ATO-endorsed disability service providers, Individuals permanently unable to use public transport (loss of use of one/both legs), Eligible ex-servicepersons assessed at 70%+ disability (DVA Gold Card).

Selling in South Australia? Notice of Disposal

If you're selling, you need to lodge a Notice of Disposal within 14 days, online via mySA GOV, in person, or by post to Service SA. No fee.

Lodge within14 days
Why it mattersSeller's name can remain linked to the vehicle record; fines/tolls/offences attributed to the vehicle before transfer completes can remain associated with the seller.

Write-Off Status

Statutory write-off

Cannot be repaired or re-registered under any circumstances; cannot be driven; sold for parts/scrap only.

Repairable write-off

Substantial damage but below the statutory threshold; cannot be driven unless currently registered or under an unregistered vehicle permit/trade plate for repair; can be re-registered once repaired and inspected.

Your PPSR search result will show if the vehicle is on the Written-Off Vehicle Register.

Before You Buy: Universal Checks

  • Run an official PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) vehicle search on ppsr.gov.au using the VIN - it's the only source of truth for money owing, stolen or written-off status. Third-party sites charge a mark-up for the same search; use the official site.
  • Match the VIN on the vehicle itself (compliance plate/windscreen) against the VIN on the registration papers and the PPSR result - they must all match exactly.
  • Meet in person, somewhere safe and public if possible, and check the seller's ID matches the name on the registration papers.
  • Never pay a deposit or balance via PayID, gift cards, or a payment link sent by the seller - use a traceable bank transfer, and confirm the account name matches the person you've verified in person.

Official Sources

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Important

This page provides general information only - it is not credit, legal or tax advice, and doesn't take into account your personal circumstances. State rules, fees and duty rates change and should be confirmed directly with the relevant state or territory authority (linked above) before you act. Arron Oliver is an Authorised Credit Representative (#546869) of Quantum Business Finance Pty Ltd, Australian Credit Licence No. 395230. See our Privacy Policy.