What Paperwork Do You Need to Sell Your Car in Adelaide?

If you’re planning to sell your car in Adelaide, it’s essential to know what paperwork is required to ensure a smooth, legal, and hassle-free transaction. Whether you’re selling privately, trading in, or using a car buying service, having the right documents in order will help you avoid fines, delays, or disputes.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the necessary paperwork you’ll need when selling your car in Adelaide, South Australia.

1. Registration Certificate (Rego Papers)

The most important document you need is the Certificate of Registration, commonly referred to as your rego papers. This proves that you are the registered owner of the vehicle.

When you sell the car, you’ll need to provide the buyer with a copy of this certificate. It includes key vehicle information such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), engine number, and registration expiry date.

Tip: Always double-check that the details on the certificate match your vehicle exactly.

2. Notice of Disposal

If you’re in South Australia and working with cash for cars service Adelaide or selling privately, you’re required to submit a Notice of Disposal (NOD) to the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) as soon as the car is sold.

You can submit a Notice of Disposal online via mySA GOV or at a Service SA centre. This document notifies the government that you no longer own the vehicle and ensures you won’t be liable for any fines or penalties incurred by the new owner.

Important: The Notice of Disposal should include:

• Buyer’s full name and address
• Sale date
• Sale price or market value
• Odometer reading at the time of sale

3. Proof of Identity

Both the buyer and seller must have valid proof of identity when completing the sale. As the seller, you should have your South Australian driver’s licence or another government-issued ID ready.

While you’re not required to give a copy to the buyer, some buyers may request to view your ID to verify that you are the legitimate owner.

4. Sales Receipt or Contract of Sale

Though not a legal requirement in South Australia, it’s a smart move to provide a sales receipt or contract of sale. This protects both parties by documenting the transaction.

Include the following information:

• Full names and signatures of buyer and seller
• Date and time of sale
• Sale price
• Vehicle details (make, model, year, VIN, registration number)
• Odometer reading
• Any agreed terms (e.g., “sold as is” condition)

Having this documentation can be very helpful if any legal issues arise after the sale.

5. Roadworthy or Vehicle Inspection Certificate (Optional)

Unlike some other Australian states, South Australia does not require a roadworthy certificate to sell a car privately. However, providing a recent vehicle inspection report can increase buyer confidence and potentially help you sell faster.

If your car has had a recent service or mechanical check, keep the receipts and provide them to the buyer.

6. Service and Maintenance Records

While not legally required, providing complete service history and maintenance records can boost your car’s value and help establish trust with potential buyers. This includes:

• Logbook records
• Invoices for recent repairs or services
• Warranty paperwork, if applicable

Buyers are often more willing to pay top dollar and free car removal for a well-maintained vehicle with a documented history.

7. Owner’s Manual and Spare Keys

Again, these are optional but highly recommended. Including the owner’s manual, any spare keys, and remote fobs adds to the car’s appeal and value. Buyers appreciate having all the original items that came with the car.

Final Checklist Before Selling Your Car in Adelaide:

• Certificate of Registration (rego papers)
• Notice of Disposal submitted to DIT
• Proof of identity
• Sales receipt or contract of sale
• Optional: Vehicle inspection report
• Optional: Service history and receipts
• Optional: Owner’s manual and spare keys

Final Thoughts

Selling your car in Adelaide doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right paperwork, you can complete the transaction legally and confidently. Whether you’re selling to a private buyer or a car buying service, being well-prepared helps you avoid legal trouble and speeds up the sale process.

If you’re unsure about anything, you can always visit SA.GOV.AU for up-to-date and official guidance.