Seller guide

How to Sell a Used Car Privately in Victoria

Selling a car privately can get you a better price than trading it in, but it works best when the listing, inspection, payment, and transfer steps are organised before the buyer arrives.

This guide is general information for Victorian private sellers. Always check the current VicRoads requirements before completing a sale.

1. Prepare the car before taking photos

Clean the vehicle, remove personal items, check tyre condition, collect service records, and note any known issues honestly. A transparent listing usually performs better than a vague one because buyers can decide quickly whether the car suits them.

  • Take photos in daylight from the front, rear, sides, interior, odometer, engine bay, wheels, and any damage.
  • Write down the make, model, year, trim, odometer reading, transmission, fuel type, registration status, and suburb or region.
  • Keep service history, receipts, manuals, spare keys, and registration details ready for inspection.

2. Check if you need a roadworthy certificate

VicRoads says sellers should check whether a roadworthy certificate is required before selling. If one is required and the vehicle passes inspection, the certificate remains current for 30 days.

If the car does not pass the first inspection, fix the listed issues before arranging a reinspection. If it is reinspected by the licensed tester within the relevant timeframe, you may not need to pay the full fee again.

3. Price the car with evidence

Compare similar cars by year, kilometres, condition, registration, roadworthy status, and location. If your car has fresh tyres, documented servicing, low kilometres, or a current RWC, mention it clearly. If it needs work, price it accordingly.

4. Meet buyers safely

Arrange inspections in daylight, preferably with another person present. Ask serious buyers to inspect the car before negotiating heavily. For test drives, confirm the buyer has a valid licence and keep control of the keys until you are comfortable proceeding.

5. Complete the transfer and keep records

VicRoads says that when you sell a vehicle registered in Victoria, you need to let them know within 14 days and complete a notice of disposal with the buyer. The online myVicRoads process is usually the easiest method.

  • Collect the buyer's details using the online process or transfer form.
  • Give the buyer the RWC if required.
  • Submit the notice of disposal.
  • Keep a copy of the transfer form, receipt, buyer details, and sale date.
  • Cancel direct debit registration payments if you use them.

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