When you need it
Any road journey in an unlicensed vehicle: bringing home an unlicensed or interstate purchase, reaching the Authorised Inspection Station that a 3-month-lapsed licence now requires, moving a restoration project, or relocating a trailer or caravan before its first WA licence. The permit specifies the purpose and dates and carries injury insurance for the trip — driving without one means fines plus zero MII cover.
How to apply
DoT's online service issues permits electronically: vehicle details, journey purpose, dates, card payment, done. It can also be arranged at DoT service centres and regional agents. Plan the inspection booking and the permit together so the dates line up.
Permit or re-license?
If the vehicle is headed back to regular use, the permit is just the bridge: budget the inspection plus the new licence — the calculator gives the licence figure — and compare that round trip against what staying licensed would have cost. It's the maths that makes WA's 3-month rule worth respecting.
Frequently asked questions
What is a temporary movement permit?
A short-term DoT permit that lets you legally move an unlicensed vehicle on WA roads for a specific purpose and journey — typically to an inspection station, repairer or new location — with injury insurance included for the permitted trip.
When do I need one?
Whenever an unlicensed vehicle must travel on a road: getting a newly bought unlicensed or interstate vehicle to inspection, moving a project car, or a vehicle whose licence lapsed past the 3-month reinstatement window.
How do I get one?
Apply through DoT's online temporary movement permit service with the vehicle details, journey purpose and dates, and pay by card — the permit issues electronically.
Can I just drive carefully to the mechanic instead?
No. Any road use of an unlicensed vehicle without a permit risks unlicensed-vehicle fines and, worse, means no Motor Injury Insurance for the trip.