If you're the buyer
1. Complete the change-of-ownership notification with the seller (Form MR9 or online via DoTDirect where available).
2. Lodge it promptly and pay the $20.50 transfer fee plus vehicle licence duty (3% of dutiable value (capped at $12,000) for most light vehicles).
3. Run a free rego check first so you know exactly how much licence period transfers with the car — and a $2 PPSR search for finance and write-off status.
If you're the seller
1. Fill in your section of the notification and hand the buyer their copy.
2. Lodge your seller's notification with DoT straight away — it timestamps the sale so later fines aren't yours.
3. No safety certificate needed for a WA-to-WA private sale, which keeps costs down compared to the eastern states.
What the transfer really costs
Two amounts: the flat $20.50 transfer fee (2026/27 schedule (published 29 June 2026)) and vehicle licence duty — 3% of dutiable value (capped at $12,000) for most light vehicles. Duty dominates: $300 on a $10,000 car, $600 on $20,000, $1,050 on $35,000. Transfers between spouses or de facto partners and some other cases can qualify for duty exemptions through RevenueWA. The rego itself stays with the vehicle, so remaining months transfer to the new owner at no extra charge.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a rego transfer cost in WA?
The transfer fee is $20.50, and vehicle licence duty applies on top — 3% of the dutiable value (capped at $12,000) for most light passenger vehicles. On a $20,000 car that's $600 duty plus the fee.
How long do I have to transfer?
The change of ownership must be lodged promptly after the sale — both parties complete the notification (Form MR9 or its online equivalent), and the buyer pays the fee and duty. Don't sit on it: until the transfer is recorded, tolls and fines follow the recorded owner.
Does WA require a roadworthy for a private sale?
No — unlike Queensland, WA has no routine safety certificate requirement for private sales of WA-licensed vehicles. Inspections apply when licensing interstate/unlicensed vehicles, after defect notices, or when a licence has lapsed over 3 months.
What about buying an interstate car?
An interstate registration isn't valid in WA: the vehicle needs an inspection at an Authorised Inspection Station and a new WA licence application in person, with duty payable on the value. A temporary movement permit covers the drive to inspection.
I sold my car — what protects me?
Lodge your side of the change-of-ownership notification with DoT immediately. It records the sale date, so offences and tolls after that date are the buyer's problem, not yours.