Apply for an unregistered vehicle permit

If you need to drive or tow an unregistered vehicle, you can apply for an unregistered vehicle permit.

Permits may be granted for a maximum of 3 days but are usually only issued for as long as necessary, for example - one day for a vehicle inspection.

Apply online

  1. If you don't already have one, set up a mySAGOV account.
  2. Log in to your mySAGOV account using your web browser (not the mySAGOV app). Select Start now below to begin.

What you'll need (on this page)

Who can apply

You can apply for an unregistered vehicle permit if you need to drive or tow an unregistered vehicle — such as a car, trailer, caravan or motorbike — on the road to:

  • get to an inspection
  • get to repairs
  • attend a car event or rally
  • relocate the vehicle.

What 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.

Other ways to apply

If you can't apply online, complete an application for an unregistered vehicle permit (PDF 169.4 KB) and take it to a Service SA centre with the appropriate fee, or call 13 10 84.

Fees

The cost of the permit will depend on if it's for a vehicle or trailer and how many days you need it. .

Cancelled permits won't be refunded.

Vehicle registration fees

Interstate travel

The journey must start or finish in South Australia for the permit to be valid.

If you're travelling interstate, you should check with the interstate authority to ensure the permit is valid for the planned trip.

Lost or damaged permit

If a permit is lost or damaged, you can access a free replacement from your mySAGOV account, as long as the permit is not expired.

How to replace your permit

How to use your permit

You’ll need to carry your permit at all times when driving or towing the unregistered vehicle or trailer.

A digital or printed copy of the permit is ok and must be shown to a police officer if requested.

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Page last updated 22 September 2026

Provided by:
Department for Infrastructure and Transport
URL:
https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/driving-and-transport/registration/conditional-registration/unregistered-vehicle-permits
Last Updated:
22/09/26
Printed on:
29/09/26
Copyright statement:
SA.GOV.AU is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 Licence. © Copyright 2026
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