Vehicle registration does not prove who legally owns a vehicle. A vehicle may be registered in one person's name while another person claims ownership.
Service SA only administers vehicle registration and cannot resolve disputes of vehicle ownership.
Service SA can't:
- determine who legally owns a vehicle
- investigate ownership disputes
- decide between competing ownership claims
- act on behalf of a party in a dispute
- provide current registered owner details unless authorised to do so.
Ownership disputes are civil matters that must be resolved between the parties involved or through legal processes.
Vehicle registration process
A vehicle can be registered in someone's name where an application meets the registration requirements. This includes payment of the applicable fees, duties and compulsory third party (CTP) insurance.
The primary purpose of registration is to allow a vehicle to be operated on public roads, being covered by a policy of third-party insurance.
Resolving an ownership dispute
If ownership of a vehicle is disputed, you should first try to resolve the matter directly with the other party.
You may wish to seek independent legal advice if you are unable to resolve the dispute.
Legal assistance
You may wish to seek initial independent legal advice.
For more information you can contact:
Stolen vehicles
Service SA cannot investigate allegations of vehicle theft.
If you believe a vehicle has been stolen, report the matter to South Australia Police (SAPOL).
