How to Sell Your Car While Keeping Your Private Number Plate

If you are thinking of selling your car but want to keep your private number plate, you may be wondering what the process is. The good news is, private registrations are usually transferable, with the process taking place relatively quickly at your local roads and traffic authority.

In this guide we will run through how to remove a private number plate when selling a car and the process for retaining it for your next vehicle.

Can I Sell My Car With a Private Number Plate?

If you own a vehicle with a private number plate attached, you can sell it in exactly the same way as you would any car. Be aware, however, that doing so will involve transferring the registration plate to the new owner. This process may not be appealing for many private plate owners, especially if their registration carries significant meaning. Fortunately, there is a process for retaining a private registration when you sell a car.

How to Transfer a Private Number Plate from One Car to Another

Retaining your private number plate when you sell a car, either for your next vehicle or to put in temporary storage, is a simple process, which we’ve outlined below.

Gather relevant documents

To transfer a private number plate from one car to another, or to put your number plates in hold, you will need the vehicle’s current registration certificate, your driver’s licence and the number plates which have been removed from the vehicle.

Head to your local service centre

Visit the local branch of your state or territory’s roads and traffic authority. Fill out any paperwork that will accompany the transfer or storage of your private number plates.

Carry out the transaction

Hand over your vehicle’s old number plates in preparation for the sale. If you are not transferring your private plate to a new vehicle straight away, you will need to arrange storage, also known as hold, with the service centre for the plates in the meantime. You will also need to register your vehicle with a generic plate before it can be sold.

Frequently Asked Questions on Car Plate Retention and Transfer

Below is a list of the most commonly asked questions by those looking to transfer a private number plate from one car to another, or retain it for a future vehicle.

Can I transfer a private plate number to someone else?

You can transfer a private registration to someone else, usually as part of the process of selling your car. The process of doing so is slightly different in each state or territory. Typically, you will also have to fill out a form and pay a transfer fee.

How much does it cost to transfer a car plate to someone else?

Transferring a private registration can incur an additional fee depending on the style of the number plate and the content itself. These fees vary by state and territory, but expect to pay anywhere between $100 and $200 to carry out the transfer. For more information, contact your local state or territory’s transport authority

Am I allowed to sell my car even if my old plate number is attached?

You can sell your vehicle with your existing number plates still attached. However, be aware that you will surrender your personalised number plate as part of the sale. If you want to keep your private number plate, you will need to follow the processes outlined above to retain them for your next vehicle.

What happens if I buy a car with custom number plates?

If you have purchased a car with private number plates and completed the registration transfer process, you now legally own the vehicle and its registration plate. If the seller wanted to purchase their private plates off you, both parties would have to reach an agreement and complete the transfer process in full.

Choose AutoFlip For an Easy Car Sale

It should be easy to sell your car without the hassle, even if you need to swap or remove your private number plate. AutoFlip’s sales platform enables you to sell your car for cash quickly, for the right price. All you need to do is provide some basic details about your vehicle and we can provide an instant offer or list your car immediately. Contact us with your vehicle’s information to get started!