Transferring Car Registration in Queensland (QLD): 2025 Guide
Here’s your no-nonsense, step-by-step guide to transferring car registration in Queensland. Whether you’re buying, selling, gifting, or inheriting. Use our free stamp duty calculator below to work out exactly what you’ll pay.
Updated July 16, 2025

What is a QLD Rego Transfer?
A QLD rego transfer is what you do when you buy or sell a car, or transfer ownership between parties. In Queensland, it’s not optional, and if you drag your feet, you risk fines, late fees, or that special brand of Queensland Government love letter. Don’t risk it. Do it right, and do it on time.
How To Transfer Car Registration in Queensland
1. Get a Roadworthy Certificate
If you’re selling a registered car in Queensland, you’ll almost always need a current
Roadworthy Certificate (also called a Safety Certificate or RWC for short) before you can transfer the registration.
2. Complete the QLD Vehicle Transfer Form
Download the official Vehicle Registration Transfer Form (F3520). ๏ปฟBoth the buyer and seller need to fill it out, complete with signatures.
3. Pay the Transfer Fees and Stamp Duty
Stamp duty: Based on sale price and engine type (calculator below).
Transfer fee: $32.55 (July 2025).
Registration renewal: If the rego’s expired or about to, pay up now.
4. Submit Everything to Transport & Main Roads (TMR)
You can complete your rego transfer online through the TMR portal, or in person at your nearest Transport and Main Roads office. If you choose to do it in person, make sure you bring your QLD Driver’s Licence and a personalised plate transfer form if required.
5. Get Covered
Don’t drive off without insurance. That’s a rookie move that could leave you exposed and out of pocket if anything goes wrong, so make sure you check out our guide on how car insurance works before you get behind the wheel.
Free QLD Stamp Duty Calculator
Want to know your exact costs? Use our stamp duty calculator. Enter your car’s purchase price and engine type to see exactly what you will pay.
QLD Vehicle Stamp Duty Calculator
Queensland Stamp Duty Rates
Dutiable Value up to $100,000:
$2 per $100 for 1-4 cylinder/hybrid/EVs
$3 per $100 for 5-6 cylinder
$4 per $100 for 7+ cylinder
Dutiable Value above $100,000:
$4 per $100 for 1-4 cylinder/hybrid/EVs
$5 per $100 for 5-6 cylinder
$6 per $100 for 7+ cylinder
How Long Do You Have to Transfer Registration in QLD?
As a buyer, you have 14 days from the date of sale to transfer the registration into your name, while sellers should complete their part of the process as soon as possible.
Don’t leave it until the last minute, waiting too long can lead to fines, penalties, or even losing your registration altogether. Just get it done and avoid the drama.
Give your newly registered car a fresh look with these premium number plate frames.
Transferring Ownership of an Unregistered Vehicle
If you're looking to transfer the ownership of an unregistered car in Queensland, the process is slightly different.
You'll need to provide proof of ownership, such as a receipt or a written agreement, and ensure the buyer is aware of any requirements for roadworthiness or registration before the vehicle can be legally driven.
๐๐ผ Selling an Unregistered Car in QLD
QLD Rego Transfer Questions & Answers
Who Pays the Transfer Fees: Buyer or Seller?
It’s typically the buyer’s responsibility, but this can be negotiated during the sale.
How Much Is It To Transfer Registration in QLD?
The transfer fee is $32.55 (as of July 1st, 2025). Additionally, you’ll need to pay stamp duty, which varies based on the car’s value, type and amount of cylinders.
Luxury cars incur higher stamp duty, so it’s worth checking with the Queensland TMR Stamp Duty Calculator for an accurate estimate.
Can I Transfer Registration Online?
Yes. Queensland’s TMR portal makes online transfers a breeze—just ensure all documents are in order.
What Happens If I Miss the 14-Day Window?
Late transfers can result in fines, so don’t delay.
Can I transfer a vehicle without a safety certificate?
Only in specific exemption cases like gifting or inheritance. Always check before skipping it.