Interstate move between VIC and SA? Change your rego the right way

If you’re gearing up for an interstate move between Victoria (VIC) and South Australia (SA), one of the most important tasks you’ll face is to change your vehicle rego the right way. It’s a step that can easily slip through the cracks amidst the moving chaos, but trust me — taking care of your car’s registration early is essential. As a seasoned removalist with over two decades of experience, I know firsthand the difference it makes.

My name is Joaquin Trapero, and as the owner of North Removals, I’ve guided countless families through the VIC–SA moving process. Over the years, I’ve seen how properly changing your vehicle registration can save my clients from headaches and fines. 

In this article, I’ll walk you through the process of transferring your car rego step by step — whether you’re moving from SA to VIC or VIC to SA. I’ve distilled everything I’ve learned from helping clients with their rego changes into clear, easy-to-follow advice. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to handle your vehicle registration when moving interstate, with no nasty surprises.

Transferring Vehicle Registration from Victoria to South Australia 
Step by Step

1. Obtain a Vehicle Identity (ID) Inspection

During this inspection the identity of your vehicle is checked to confirm it has not been stolen or modified.

• Authorised Locations: Schedule an inspection with an authorised inspection station in South Australia. A list of approved stations is available on the SA.GOV.AU website.

2. Obtain a Roadworthy Certificate (if required)

South Australia does not automatically require a roadworthy inspection for all interstate transfers. However, an inspection may be needed if the vehicle is older, modified, or flagged in any way. 

• Authorised Mechanics: Have your vehicle inspected by a licensed mechanic in South Australia. You can refer to the following resources:
  • Government of South Australia: Provides comprehensive information on vehicle inspections, including booking procedures and requirements.
  • RAA (Royal Automobile Association): Offers expert vehicle inspection services at their Mile End workshop and Approved Vehicle Inspection Centres across regional South Australia.
  • Vehicle Inspections SA: The independent service Vehicle Inspections SA conducts mobile vehicle inspections through certified mechanics who possess two decades of experience.

3. Purchase Compulsory Third Party (CTP) Insurance

• Requirement: CTP insurance is mandatory in South Australia and covers personal injury liabilities in the event of an accident.
• Approved Insurers: Obtain CTP insurance from a licensed insurer in South Australia. 

4. Necessary Documentation

Gather the following documents:

• Identity document: It is important to have a valid identity document, such as your driver´s licence and passport. Make sure they are valid and not expired.
  
• Document of South Australian domicile: You must have utility bills or rental agreements confirming your residence in South Australia.
  
• Documentation of current vehicle registration in Victoria: It is important to have proof of your vehicle’s existing registration in Victoria.
  
• Vehicle Identity Inspection Certificate: The certificate obtained from the authorised inspection station.
  
• Certificate of Roadworthiness (if required): You must have the original certificate from your authorised mechanic.
  
• CTP insurance certificate: You must have documentation of your CTP insurance coverage.

5. Visit a Service SA Centre

• Process: Present all gathered documents to the Service SA officer. You can download the vehicle registration form here.
• Surrender Victorian Number Plates: Hand over your current Victorian plates during the appointment.
• Payment of Fees: Pay the applicable registration fees. For an estimate, refer to the SA.GOV.AU registration fees page.
• Issuance of South Australian Number Plates: After processing success you will obtain new South Australian number plates.

Additional Considerations

• Timing: The registration transfer should take place within three months after moving to avoid getting charged fines or penalties.South Australia generally requires that you transfer registration within 90 days (three months) of moving.
  
• Refunds: You can get a refund for your Victorian registration period once you surrender your plates to authorities. Contact VicRoads for more information.

For further details and updates, visit the SA.GOV.AU website.

Transferring Vehicle Registration from South Australia to Victoria 
Step by Step

Moving from South Australia to Victoria also demands a vehicle registration transfer because Victorian laws must be followed to avoid any legal consequences. The following complete breakdown will lead you through your transition steps:

1. Obtain a Certificate of Roadworthiness (RWC)

• Purpose: A purpose exists to verify that your vehicle complies with Victoria’s safety regulations.
• Authorised vehicle tester: You are required to schedule an inspection with an authorised vehicle tester in Victoria. A list of authorised testers is available on the Transport Victoria website.
• Validity Period: The validity period of RWCs extends for 30 days starting from the date of issue, which determines your appointment scheduling for registration.

2. Book a Registration Appointment with VicRoads

• Online Booking: Users can select a suitable appointment by visiting the VicRoads online scheduling platform.
  
• Information Required: Have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), engine number, and current Victorian driver’s license or customer number ready when booking.

3. Necessary Documentation

Gather the following documents:

• Identity document: It is important to have a valid identity document.
  
• Proof of Victorian Residential Address: The requirement for proof of Victorian residential address includes documents such as utility bills or rental agreements.
  
• Vehicle’s Current South Australian Registration Papers: Proof of your vehicle’s existing registration in SA.
  
• Roadworthiness Certificate (RWC): You must have the original certificate from your authorised vehicle inspector.
  
• Vehicle’s Current Number Plates: These will be surrendered during your appointment.

4. Attend the VicRoads Appointment

• Document Submission: Present all gathered documents to the VicRoads officer. You can download the vehicle registration form here.
  
• Payment of Fees: Pay the applicable registration fees. For an estimate, refer to the VicRoads registration fees page.
  
• Issuance of Victorian Number Plates: After processing succeeds you will get new Victorian number plates issued to you.

Additional Considerations

• Timing: You must carry out your registration transfer within three months after moving to Victoria to prevent possible fines or penalties. Victoria also generally allows 90 days (three months) to transfer registration upon moving permanently.
  
• Vehicle Standards: Your vehicle needs to fulfil the roadworthiness standards established in Victoria. Every vehicle produced from January 2011 needs to have Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as a standard feature for compliance. The VicRoads website contains additional information about this subject.
  
• Refunds: After returning your South Australian plates you might obtain a refund for any unused amount of your SA registration. Contact Service SA to obtain details.

Make Your VIC–SA Vehicle Rego Transfer Easy with North Removals

In summary, when moving interstate tackling your vehicle registration transfer promptly is key. Each state gives you around 90 days to switch your rego over, so be sure to tick off your inspections, paperwork, and plate swap within that window. By following the steps we’ve covered, you’ll avoid any legal hiccups and drive in your new state with peace of mind.

If you’re planning your own VIC–SA move, I’m here to help make it as smooth as possible. My team at North Removals will handle all the heavy lifting (literally and figuratively), so you can focus on things like updating your rego and settling in. Feel free to reach out for a chat or grab a quick quote on our website. Book your move with North Removals and let’s make your interstate relocation a stress-free experience.