Transferring Car Registration in Queensland (QLD): 2026 Guide
Here’s your 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.
January 12, 2026
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 Much Does it Cost to Transfer Rego in QLD?
The cost of transferring Queensland vehicle registration is $32.55.
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 Change of Ownership QLD Form
Download the official Vehicle Registration Transfer Form (F3520). Both 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).
Registration renewal: If the rego’s expired or about to, pay up now.
Registration transfer fee:
Currently
$32.55.
4. Submit Everything to Transport & Main Roads (TMR)
You can complete your rego transfer in person at your nearest Transport and Main Roads office. Make sure you bring your QLD Driver’s Licence and a personalised plate transfer form if required.
🔎 Search for your local Transport and Motoring Service Centre
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.
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. 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.
How to Transfer Rego Online
Queenslanders can transfer rego online through the TMR portal.
The seller starts the transfer, then the buyer completes it by uploading a safety certificate, entering their licence details and address, adding the odometer reading and paying the transfer fee and stamp duty.
How to Calculate Stamp Duty on Vehicles in QLD
In Queensland, stamp duty applies to all motor vehicles, including cars, utes, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles. While most buyers refer to “car stamp duty”, the legal definition used by Queensland Revenue Office is vehicle stamp duty, calculated based on dutiable value and engine type.
Vehicle stamp duty is a state-based tax applied when transferring ownership of a vehicle. Each state and territory has different rates and calculation methods.
Use Our Stamp Duty Calculator for Vehicles
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
Note: Rates change for values over $100,000.
Queensland Car Stamp Duty Rates
| Dutiable Value | Engine Type | Rate (per $100) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to $100,000 | 1–4 cylinders / Hybrid / EV | $2 |
| 5–6 cylinders | $3 | |
| 7 or more cylinders | $4 | |
| Above $100,000 | 1–4 cylinders / Hybrid / EV | $4 |
| 5–6 cylinders | $5 | |
| 7 or more cylinders | $6 |
Stamp Duty Exemptions
Navigating Rural Registration Transfers
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.
Next Steps for Selling a Car in Brisbane
Once you understand how registration transfer works in Queensland, the next decision is who you are actually selling the car to. Most Brisbane sellers want the process to be straightforward, with clear expectations and no back and forth over paperwork or timing.
Choosing a local buyer who deals with Queensland transfers every day can make the sale smoother and reduce the risk of delays or mistakes once the car changes hands.
Common Questions About QLD Rego Transfers
Who Pays the Transfer Fees: Buyer or Seller?
It’s typically the buyer’s responsibility, but this can be negotiated during the sale.
Do I Need a Roadworthy to Transfer to a Family Member?
Yes, you usually do. In Queensland, a safety certificate is still required even if you’re transferring the car to a family member.
The only time you can skip it is if the vehicle falls under an exemption, like certain trailers or something that’s genuinely unregistered. Otherwise, TMR treats it like any other transfer.
How Much Does it Cost to Transfer Rego 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 Rego 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 Rego Without a RWC in QLD?
More on RWCsIn most cases, no. You’ll need a valid RWC to transfer registration of a used car to a new owner.
However, licensed motor dealers are exempt from this requirement when transferring vehicles between other licensed dealers or when handling the transfer themselves.
Some family transfers and exempt vehicle categories may also qualify, but for private sales, the safety certificate is mandatory.
Who Pays Stamp Duty on Car in QLD?
The purchaser is liable to pay vehicle registration duty when they buy or transfer a car in Queensland. This applies to both private sales and dealership purchases.
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