Sell Your Car in Brisbane (2026) | Expert, No-Nonsense Guide
Selling a car in Brisbane is simple when you know the steps, paperwork, and best practices. This guide explains your options, how to price your car, and how to complete the sale safely and legally.
february 28, 2026
Step 1: Decide How You Want to Sell
How you want to sell your car comes down to the speed in which you want to sell and the price you'd like to sell your car for. You have 3 main options.
Private Sale
You sell directly to a buyer by listing on Carsales, Facebook Marketplace, or Gumtree.
Pros: Highest net price.
Cons: You handle enquiries, inspections, negotiations, and paperwork.
Prepare your car properly. Clean it, document service history, and take clear photos. Buyers pay attention to condition and service records.
Used Car Buyer
Sell to a professional used car buyer who can make an offer and complete the transaction quickly.
Pros: Fast and simple. We handle valuation and most of the paperwork.
Cons: Offer is usually lower than a private sale.
This is ideal for sellers who want certainty and fast payment.
Trade-In with a Dealer
Sell the car when buying another at a dealership.
Pros: Convenient, all in one place.
Cons: Usually pays less than a private sale.
Step 2: Prepare Paperwork
Selling a car in Brisbane, Queensland requires certain legal documents.
Roadworthy Certificate (RWC)
A Roadworthy Certificate is required if the car is registered and you want the new owner to transfer registration.
- The vehicle must pass a basic safety inspection including brakes, tyres, lights, and suspension.
- Private buyers will not complete a registration transfer without it.
You can sell without a Safety Certificate if the car is unregistered or you are selling to a licensed dealer.
Registration Transfer
Both seller and buyer complete the Vehicle Registration Transfer Form.
- The buyer lodges their copy at a Transport and Motoring Service Centre or online.
- Keep your portion and make sure it is submitted to avoid liability.
- The transfer must occur within 14 days of the sale.
If registration remains in your name after the sale, you may be liable for fines or tolls.
More on Transferring Registration in QLD
Step 3: Pricing and Presentation
Check similar vehicles in Brisbane by year, condition, and mileage.
Be transparent about:
- Exact odometer reading
- Condition and service history
- Whether the Safety Certificate is included or the car is sold unregistered
Safety Certificate inspections in Brisbane typically cost $100 to $200. If defects are found, fix them or disclose them to avoid disputes.
Consider supplying a
Comprehensive VIN Check to give peace of mind for the buyer.
Step 4: Choosing the Right Buyer
If time and certainty are more important than the highest price, professional buyers are the most convenient choice.
| Selling Method | Private Sale | Cash Buyer | Trade-In |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | Slow | Fast | Medium |
| Effort | High | Low | Low |
| Expected Price | Highest | Medium | Lower |
Compare Selling Methods
How Sell Any Car Fast Helps Brisbane Sellers
- We provide accurate valuations based on the market and vehicle condition.
- You do not need to advertise or handle enquiries.
- We manage most of the registration and transfer paperwork.
- Payment is fast and secure.
Bottom Line
Selling a car in Brisbane is straightforward if you know what documents are required and how to price your vehicle.
- Registered vehicles must have a Safety Certificate and completed transfer paperwork.
- If you want a fast, stress-free sale, professional buyers can take care of everything.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a roadworthy certificate to sell my car in Brisbane?
If you’re selling privately in Brisbane, yes. You must provide a current Queensland Safety Certificate before advertising the car.
If you’re selling to a licensed motor dealer in Brisbane, you usually do not need to supply a roadworthy. Most dealers will assess the vehicle themselves and handle any compliance work.
How do I transfer registration in Brisbane?
In Queensland, the seller must submit a Notice of Disposal to TMR once the vehicle is sold. The buyer is responsible for transferring the registration into their name.
You can complete the Notice of Disposal online through Queensland Transport. Always lodge it immediately after payment is received. It protects you from future fines or toll charges.
Can I sell my car in Brisbane without registration?
Yes.
You can sell an unregistered car in Brisbane, but it cannot be driven unless the buyer arranges a permit. The sale process is slightly different because there is no rego transfer involved.
Cash-for-car buyers and scrap car services in Brisbane regularly purchase unregistered vehicles.
What paperwork do I need to sell my car in Brisbane?
At minimum:
- Your driver licence
- Registration details
- Safety Certificate if selling privately
If there’s finance owing, you’ll need to finalise that before ownership can transfer.
Check out: What paperwork do I need to sell my car in Brisbane
Is it better to sell privately or to a dealer in Brisbane?
It depends on your priorities.
Selling privately in Brisbane may achieve a slightly higher price, but it involves advertising, inspections, safety certificate costs, and time.
Selling to a Brisbane dealer is typically faster and simpler. You avoid tyre kickers, late night messages, and repeated viewings.
How long does it take to sell a car in Brisbane?
Private sales can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on price, condition, and demand.
Selling to a Brisbane cash buyer is often completed within 24 to 48 hours.
Can I sell a damaged or scrap car in Brisbane?
Yes.
Many Brisbane buyers specialise in damaged, accident, unwanted, and scrap vehicles. These vehicles are usually purchased without requiring a roadworthy certificate.
Do I have to cancel my registration after selling?
If the vehicle is registered and ownership transfers correctly, you do not cancel the rego. You lodge a Notice of Disposal instead.
If you sell the car unregistered, you may need to hand in the plates and cancel the registration with Queensland Transport.
What’s the safest place to meet a buyer in Brisbane?
If selling privately, meet during daylight hours in a public location. Many Brisbane police stations offer safe exchange zones.
If selling to a licensed dealer, the transaction usually happens at your home or business address.
Check out: Where to meet to sell a car in Brisbane
How do I avoid scams when selling my car in Brisbane?
Be cautious of:
Buyers offering to overpay and requesting refunds
Requests for unusual payment methods
Buyers refusing to inspect the vehicle
Only release the vehicle once cleared payment is received.
Check out: How to avoid car selling scams
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