This information will help you if you are driving a vehicle that is registered overseas - whether you are visiting temporarily or have recently become a permanent resident.
Applying for an international visitor's permit
Visitors travelling in a vehicle that is registered overseas need to apply for an international visitor's permit to drive the vehicle in South Australia.
An international visitor's permit cannot be issued until the vehicle has arrived in Australia and a compulsory third party insurance fee will apply for the period the vehicle is to be used in Australia.
Complete an application for an international visitor's vehicle permit at a Service SA centre.
You will also need to provide evidence that the vehicle has entered Australia legally. The following documentation may be used as evidence:
- carnet - a customs licence permitting motorists to take their cars to various countries
- triptych - similar to a carnet, but valid for one trip only
- bond - a document lodged with Australian Customs Service.
Registering a vehicle imported from overseas
New residents wishing to drive an imported vehicle in South Australia must apply for a licence and register the vehicle within three months of moving here permanently. An imported vehicle must be registered in South Australia before it can be driven on the road.
See Importing and registering a vehicle from overseas for requirements to register an imported vehicle in South Australia.
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.
