What Paperwork Do I Need to Sell My Car Privately in Queensland?

Selling your car privately might feel overwhelming at first, with all the paperwork, forms, and processes involved, it’s easy to see why so many people prefer to trade-in their cars just to save themselves the headache.

We’ve created this full guide to simplify the process and ensure you know exactly what’s required. Whether you’re dealing with PPSRs, personalised plates, or finance payouts, we’ve got you covered when selling a car privately in QLD.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to navigate every step of selling your car to a private buyer.

Paperwork Needed to Sell Your Car in QLD

When it comes time to sell your car in Queensland, having the right paperwork is essential. Here are the key documents you'll need to have to sell your car successfully:

1. A QLD Roadworthy Certificate (RWC)

If you're wondering what a roadworthy certificate is, we have you covered. It's an important document needed to sell your car in Queensland. This certificate verifies that your vehicle meets the necessary safety standards set by the Queensland Government.

You can find a mechanic or workshop to perform one by searching for an Approved Inspection Station (AIS).

2. Proof of Ownership - QLD Registration Papers

An important item you'll need to sell is the car's registration certificate. This certificate serves as proof that you are the legal owner of the vehicle and the main document referred to when we buy cars. It contains important information such as the vehicle's registration number, make and model, and your name as the registered owner.



Make sure you have this document readily available as it will be required by the buyer to complete the transfer of ownership. You can download a registration certificate via the TMR website or you can request one in person at a TMR Customer Service Centre.

3. A Completed QLD Rego Transfer Form is Required

This form is crucial in transferring the ownership of the vehicle from you, as the seller, to the buyer. You'll need to complete the forms accurately and ensure that both you and the buyer sign it. For more detailed information, see our guide on transferring registration in Queensland.

Additional Forms You May Require

Depending on your situation, there may be a few extra forms to consider. For example, if the car is under finance, you’ll need a payout letter from your lender showing the remaining balance. Or you may have a set of personalised number plates that you'd rather keep.

1. PPSR Search & Vehicle History Check

While not a mandatory requirement, providing a vehicle history report from CarFacts can add credibility to your car and give confidence to the buyer.

A PPSR will display whether or not the vehicle is on the Written Off Vehicle Register, if its been previously stolen, or if there's a financial encumberance against the vehicle.

A vehicle history check goes a bit deeper displaying the items above as well as the recorded odometer history (to see if there's been a potential rollback) and a current market price comparison.

2. Finance Payout Letter

If you are selling a financed car, you'll need to obtain a payout figure from your finance provider.

You'll also need to ensure that the proceeds from the sale of the car are enough to cover the outstanding finance amount. Liaise with your finance provider to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any legal complications.

3. Personalised Plate (PPQ) Transfer Forms

• If you're keeping your personalised plates: Remove/Attach Personalised Plates
• If you're selling with the personalised plates: Personalised Plates Transfer Application

4. Tax Invoice (Bill of Sale)

Even though you're not a business, it's still smart to create a simple invoice (or bill of sale) when you sell your car privately.

An invoice acts as a clear record of the sale, showing the key details both you and the buyer agreed on along with supplying a dutiable value so stmap duty can be calculated.

At a minimum, your invoice should include:

• Your full name and address
• The buyer’s full name and address
• Vehicle details (year, make, model, odometer, VIN, registration number)
• Sale date
• Sale price
• A statement that the vehicle is sold "as is"
• Both your signature and the buyer’s signature

Supplying an invoice protects you if anything comes up after the sale — like unpaid tolls, speeding fines, or any misunderstandings about the condition of the car. It's a simple step that gives peace of mind to both parties.



You can handwrite it, create a basic document on your computer, or download free bill of sale templates online. Just make sure both you and the buyer keep a copy.

Common Car Selling Paperwork Questions

Wrap-Up: Don’t Let Missing Paperwork Stall Your Sale

Ready to skip the hassle altogether?

If you'd rather avoid the paperwork, inspections, and back-and-forth with buyers, we can buy your car directly — fast, fair, and fuss-free.

👉 Sell Your Car Today and see how easy it can be.

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