You can apply for an unregistered vehicle permit if you need to drive or tow an unregistered vehicle (including a car, caravan, motorcycle or trailer) on the road to:
- get to an inspection
- get to repairs
- attend a car event or rally
- relocate the vehicle.
Permits may be granted for a maximum of three days but are usually only issued for as long as necessary - eg one day for a vehicle inspection.
Permits are not available for vehicles being used for hire, reward, to carry a load or for commercial purposes.
The journey must start in SA. Where a permit is required to travel from SA to interstate, it is advisable to check with the interstate authority to ensure the permit is valid for the nominated journey.
If you're relocating a vehicle from interstate to SA, you'll need to apply for a permit with the interstate authority where the journey is beginning.
Apply for a permit online
You can apply online if you have a mySAGOV account.
To apply, log in to your mySAGOV account using your internet browser (not the mySAGOV app). Select Start now below to begin.
You'll need:
- the vehicle's details eg make, VIN or engine number, the plate number (if the vehicle has plates)
- details of the proposed journey
- access to a printer.
Some permits can't be issued online - eg left-hand drive vehicle permits that require a left-hand drive exemption certificate, or defected vehicles with a lift and tow restriction.
Cost
The cost of the permit will depend on if it's for a vehicle or trailer and how many days you need it for - visit the vehicle registration fees page.
What happens next
The permit must be attached to the windscreen of your vehicle, or if the vehicle does not have a windscreen, the permit must be carried with you while driving the vehicle.
No refund is paid if a permit is cancelled.
Lost or damaged permit
If a permit is lost or damaged, you can access a free replacement from your mySAGOV account providing the permit is not expired.
To access the permit:
- Log in to your mySAGOV account using your internet browser (not the mySAGOV app). Select Start now below to begin.
- Select My services
- Select View My Documents
- Select Download Document to access a PDF copy of the permit
Need help?
Contact Service SA
Online
Only send general enquiries online. Service SA will respond within 3 working days.
If the matter is urgent or is specifically about your current licence or registration, phone or visit a Service SA centre instead.
Phone
Call Service SA between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays:
- 13 10 84
- +61 8 8226 0206 (overseas callers).
In person
Service SA centre locations and opening hours.
