Buying and selling a used vehicle: registration

When buying or selling a vehicle, you must follow the proper processes to notify the Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) that the ownership of the vehicle has been changed.

This notification is called a notice of disposal.

The MVR will then update its records to register the new owner of the vehicle.

This ensures that any liabilities - such as traffic fines or offences - are the responsibility of the right person.

The seller will no longer be responsible for any traffic infringement notices that are issued for the vehicle after the sale.

Roadworthy inspection

A roadworthy inspection is required if a light vehicle is 7 years old or older and when:

• transferring a vehicle’s ownership
• a vehicle has been unregistered for more than 12 months
• registering a vehicle in the Northern Territory for the first time.

Check if your vehicle needs an inspection.

How to update your vehicle's records

Find out what you need to do as the:

• new owner or
• former owner.

For more information, read the notice of disposal information bulletin PDF (593.8 KB).

Learn more about buying a new or used vehicle.