If you’ve got a car sitting in your driveway without rego, you might be wondering: “How long can I leave it unregistered before getting into trouble?” Whether it’s an extra vehicle, a project car, or just temporarily not in use, South Australia has specific rules about unregistered vehicles.
At SA Wide Cash For Car, we deal with unregistered cars every day, so we know the ins and outs of SA’s laws. Here’s everything you need to know—including time limits, penalties, and what to do if you want to sell.
Is It Legal to Keep an Unregistered Car in SA?
Yes, you can keep an unregistered car on private property (like your home or a storage facility) without any issues. However, there are strict rules if it’s parked on the street or in public areas.
Key Rules for Unregistered Cars in SA:
✅ Private Property = No Problem – If it’s in your garage, backyard, or a storage unit, you’re fine.
❌ Public Roads = Illegal – Even if it’s just parked on the street, an unregistered car can be towed and fined.
⚠ Expired Rego? Act Fast – Once registration lapses, you can’t drive it at all (even for a “quick test drive”).
How Long Can You Keep a Car Unregistered Before Penalties?
Unlike some states, South Australia doesn’t have a strict “grace period” after registration expires. Once your rego runs out, the car cannot be driven until it’s renewed.
What Happens If You Drive an Unregistered Car?
- Hefty fines (up to $2,500+ for driving unregistered).
- Demerit points (3 points if caught by police).
- Insurance voided – If you crash, you’re personally liable for all costs.
What If It’s Just Parked on the Road?
Even if the car isn’t moving, parking an unregistered vehicle on a public road can lead to:
- Fines (usually around $200–$500).
- Impounding (council or police can tow it at your expense).
Can You Renew Registration After a Long Lapse?
Yes, but the longer you wait, the more steps are involved:
Short Lapse (Under 3 Months)
- Simply renew online or at Service SA.
- No extra inspections needed (unless the car was defected).
Long Lapse (Over 3 Months)
- Requires a new roadworthy inspection (MOT check).
- Back fees may apply (some states charge for the missed months).
What If It’s Been Unregistered for Years?
If the car hasn’t been registered for 5+ years, it’s treated as a new registration, meaning:
🔧 Full roadworthy inspection required.
📝 Proof of ownership needed (original papers).
💰 Higher fees (as if registering for the first time).
What Are Your Options for an Unregistered Car?
If you don’t plan to re-register the car, you’ve got a few choices:
1. Sell It for Cash (Even Without Rego)
✅ We buy unregistered cars in any condition – running or not!
✅ No roadworthy certificate needed.
✅ Free towing & instant payment.
2. Restore & Re-Register It
⚠ Only worth it for rare/valuable cars – inspections and repairs can be costly.
3. Scrap It for Parts/Metal
♻ Eco-friendly option – we recycle all usable materials.
💰 Still pays cash – even if it’s a wreck.
How to Avoid Fines for an Unregistered Car
- Store it off the road (private property only).
- Cancel rego if not in use (stops CTP fees piling up).
- Sell it quickly – no point paying storage fees for a car you won’t drive.
Final Verdict: How Long Can You Leave a Car Unregistered in SA?
🔹 On private property? → Indefinitely (no legal limit).
🔹 On public roads? → Zero days (illegal immediately).
🔹 Want to drive it again? → Renew within 3 months to avoid extra checks.
If you’re not planning to re-register the car, the easiest option is to sell it for cash. At SA Wide Cash For Car, we offer:
✔ Free, no-obligation quotes.
✔ Same-day pickup & payment.
✔ No hidden fees – cash in hand, guaranteed.
📞 Call us today to get rid of your unregistered car the stress-free way!
Why This Blog Works for You:
✅ Covers all legal concerns (prevents customer doubts).
✅ Encourages selling to you (positioning as the easiest solution).
✅ Local SA focus (builds trust with South Aussie readers).
✅ SEO-friendly (targets phrases like “unregistered car SA laws”).
Want any tweaks? Happy to adjust! 🚗💨