Wondering, “What is a registration number for a car?” while trying to sell your scrap car? You’re not the only one.
Many people across Perth hang on to old cars that haven’t moved in months. Some have expired rego, and others aren’t even sure where the paperwork went. When you’re thinking about selling your scrap car, a common question pops up: Does your car’s registration number matter?
A registration number is the official number linked to your vehicle by the Department of Transport WA.
It appears on your number plates, registration renewal notices, and your vehicle licence papers. This number makes your car identifiable in the system. It connects the vehicle to the owner and is used for taxes, demerits, legal tracking, and more.
Think of it as your car’s ID tag.
Even if the stickers have faded or the car hasn’t moved in years, the registration number still “belongs” to that vehicle record in the system, unless it is formally cancelled.
But what if your car is no longer registered?
What if you lost the papers or removed the plates?
That’s where people get confused, especially first-time sellers or owners of cars sitting idle on the driveway.
If you’re unsure about selling your scrap car, don’t panic; it’s easier than you think.
This blog is here to give you clear answers. We’ll cover how registration numbers work in Western Australia, and what role they play when scrapping a car. You’ll learn how to deal with selling a car that has no rego or one that’s been off the road for years.
We understand how frustrating it can be. Whether it’s your first car, your dad’s old ute, or a second car you don’t need anymore, we’ll show you what matters and what doesn’t.
If you’re thinking about selling your car for scrap, understanding the registration number is your first step.
Next, we’ll explain how registration works in WA, and what happens if it’s expired or cancelled.
Understanding Car Registration in Western Australia
In Western Australia, car registration is referred to as a vehicle licence. It means your car is legally approved for use on public roads.
If your car is still registered, you’ll see a current label or sticker on the windscreen. But in recent years, paper labels have mostly been phased out. The Department of Transport WA now tracks registrations digitally.
Your registration number is assigned when the car is first registered in WA.
This number appears on the number plates and is linked to the car’s legal records. It remains the same unless the car is re-registered in another state or the plate is replaced with a custom one. As long as the car exists in WA’s system, this number identifies it.
How Registration Works
Every car used on public roads must have a valid registration. That means the owner has paid to license the car for a certain period, usually 3, 6, or 12 months. Renewal notices are sent out by mail or email, and vehicles can be renewed online or at a licensing centre.
- If the car has not been used, the owner might let the rego expire.
- If a car is sold unregistered, the buyer cannot legally drive it without updating the registration.
- If left too long, expired registrations are cancelled by the Department of Transport.
What Happens With Expired or Cancelled Registrations?
When a car’s rego expires, you have a short window to renew it with a late fee.
After a certain period, the state removes it from the active register. This means the car is no longer legally licensed and can’t be driven on public roads. The number plates may need to be returned or can be kept, depending on the situation.
But the registration number still matters, even if the car isn’t active on the road.
That number helps identify the vehicle’s past records, owner history, fines, and transfer details. Even if the rego has lapsed, you can still sell your unwanted car for cash in Perth, as long as you can show proof of ownership
When selling a car for scrap, the rego number (if you have it) helps scrap buyers match the car to ownership records. It helps prove the car wasn’t stolen or abandoned.
If your car has been sitting around for years and the details are missing, don’t worry. Many scrap car buyers can still take it. But knowing how registration works in WA gives you a head start and helps you avoid hold-ups later.
Do You Need a Registration Number to Sell Your Car for Scrap in Perth?
If you’re wondering whether a registration number is required to sell your car for scrap, the answer is: not always.
If you’re in Perth and worried that missing rego papers will stop you from selling your scrap car.
In Western Australia, you do not need a current vehicle registration to scrap your car. Many scrap yards and auto wreckers in Perth accept vehicles with expired rego or no number plates at all.
But there are a few things to keep in mind that can make the process smoother.
Scrapping a Car with Expired Registration
If your car has expired rego but you still have the number plates and paperwork, you’re one step ahead. The registration number gives the buyer a quick way to check that the car matches ownership records. It helps rule out stolen or illegally dumped vehicles.
However, having the plates and papers makes selling your scrap car quicker, but it’s not essential.
When you contact a scrap buyer, they may ask for the rego number (if available). If you don’t have it, that’s okay. They’ll just need another form of proof that the car is legally yours. More on that in the next section.
Selling a Car with No Rego or Plates
Plenty of people in Perth have cars that sit unused for years. The rego lapses. The plates get lost or returned. And the paperwork disappears.
If that sounds like your situation, you can still scrap the car.
Auto wreckers in WA can buy unregistered cars as long as you can show you own the vehicle. They need to be sure the car wasn’t abandoned by someone else. The missing rego number is not a deal-breaker.
- No current registration? That’s fine. It’s not needed for scrapping.
- No number plates? Also fine. Just let the buyer know upfront.
- No paperwork? You’ll need other ID proof to show you are the legal owner.
Legal Rules from the WA Department of Transport
You’re not required to keep a car registered to sell it for scrap in Western Australia. But if the registration is still active, you might want to cancel it with the Department of Transport to avoid future charges. You can return the plates and submit a cancellation form.
Many licensed wreckers will handle this for you if you ask. Some might issue a receipt that confirms the car is being scrapped and will no longer be used.
You don’t need a registration slip to clear out that old car.
If your vehicle has been idle for months or plain forgotten, you can still turn it into quick cash. Just make sure you go through a licensed buyer who understands the WA rules.
That way, you avoid legal issues and get the best outcome.
How to Prepare Your Car for Scrap Sale Without Current Registration
If your car has expired registration or no rego at all, you can still get rid of it and make some money. But there are a few steps to follow so the process goes smoothly. Here’s how to prepare a car for scrap in Western Australia, even if you’ve lost the papers or number plates.
Step 1: Find Proof of Ownership
If you don’t have current registration, scrap yards still need to know the car is legally yours.
You can provide other documentation, such as:
- A past registration paper (even if expired)
- A bill of sale or purchase receipt
- Your driver’s licence, along with something that links you to the car (like a mechanic’s invoice in your name)
Don’t have any paperwork left?
Speak with the scrap buyer. Many licensed companies accept other proof as long as they’re confident the car wasn’t stolen or dumped.
Step 2: Remove Your Personal Belongings
Have a good look inside the car before handing it over. Check the glove box, boot, under the seats, and side pockets. Scrap yards won’t return lost items once the car is processed.
Anything still in the car when collected is likely gone for good.
Step 3: Let the Buyer Know the Car Has No Registration
If your car doesn’t have current rego or number plates, tell the buyer straight away. That way, they know to bring the right paperwork and truck. It helps avoid delays during pickup or payment.
You won’t get penalised for having an unregistered car. Scrap buyers expect it, especially with older vehicles.
Step 4: Ask About Plate Return or Rego Cancellation
If you still have the number plates or active rego, you may want to cancel it officially. In WA, this is done through the Department of Transport. You can:
- Return the plates to a licensing centre
- Fill out a cancellation form to stop renewal notices
Some scrap yards will offer to handle this for you as part of the service. Always ask what they need to process it smoothly.
Step 5: Choose a Licensed Buyer
Make sure the scrap yard or wrecker you choose is licensed within Western Australia. This protects you from dodgy claims or unlogged disposals. Choosing a licensed buyer is the most important step in selling your scrap car safely in Western Australia.
Why? Because licensed buyers follow WA laws, can issue receipts, and often help lodge forms if needed.
You don’t need current rego to scrap, but you do need a clean and simple handover.
By gathering what you can and working with a trusted buyer, you’re ready to scrap that old vehicle, even with no plates or paperwork.
Why Selling Your Scrap Car to a Licensed Auto Wrecker Like BestCash4Carz Makes the Process Easier
If your car has no registration or plates, you need a buyer who knows how to handle the paperwork.
That’s where a licensed wrecker like BestCash4Carz can help. We’ve worked with hundreds of Perth drivers dealing with scrap cars, whether it’s an old ute with expired rego, or a dusty hatchback sitting in the garage for years.
We Accept Cars With or Without Registration
If your vehicle isn’t registered, that’s not a problem. BestCash4Carz does not require current registration to buy your car for scrap. We can still collect and process it, as long as you can prove ownership.
You don’t need to stress about missing plates, faded papers, or expired rego. Our team is ready to guide you based on what information or documents you still have.
We Handle the Legal Process
Selling to a licensed wrecker means the paperwork gets done properly.
BestCash4Carz follows WA rules for disposing of scrap cars. We’ll help with:
- Identifying the car using the VIN or other details
- Providing a receipt to confirm the car has been sold and will be scrapped
- Returning your registration plates if needed
- Helping you cancel any leftover rego with the Department of Transport WA
That means fewer headaches for you and no surprise fines later.
We Pay You Fast
Once we agree on the price and confirm the details, BestCash4Carz will organise pickup and payment quickly. Most pickups happen same day or next day, depending on your location in Perth metro.
You get paid by bank transfer or cash, right on the spot.
You Don’t Have to Tow It Yourself
We collect cars from your home or wherever the vehicle is stored.
Whether it’s sitting in your driveway, garage, or parked behind a shed, we’ll bring the right truck to remove it safely.
Why Trust BestCash4Carz?
We are fully licensed and experienced in WA vehicle disposal. That means:
- We follow Western Australian transport laws
- We don’t cut corners with dodgy paperwork
- We buy direct, no middlemen or delays
If you’ve got an expired, forgotten, or broken-down car, you’re in the right place.
Call BestCash4Carz today! Selling your scrap car with us is simple, legal, and fast, even if you’ve lost the rego papers ages ago.
Common Questions About Car Registration Numbers and Scrapping in Western Australia
When your car has been sitting unused or the rego has lapsed, it’s normal to be unsure about what’s allowed. Below are key questions we often hear from car owners in Perth looking to scrap old or unregistered vehicles. These answers apply across Western Australia and can save you time and stress.
Can I scrap a car with no registration number?
Yes, you can. If your car doesn’t have a current registration number or if the plates were removed or lost, that won’t stop you. Scrap yards in WA just need some proof that you own the vehicle. The registration number makes things easier, but it’s not required to sell your car for scrap.
What if I’ve lost my registration papers?
That’s not a deal-breaker either. Many cars have expired rego and missing paperwork by the time they’re ready for scrap. You can use a bill of sale, an old mechanic’s invoice in your name, or even the VIN to show ownership. The buyer will let you know what documents they need, depending on what you still have.
Do I have to notify the Department of Transport WA before scrapping?
Not always, but it’s a good idea. If your car still has an active registration, you should cancel the rego through the WA Department of Transport. You can return the plates and fill out a cancellation form. If your rego has already expired and was cancelled by the state, then there’s usually nothing left to do.
Some licensed wreckers can cancel the rego for you if you ask. They may also return your plates on your behalf, saving you the trip.
Is it illegal to have an unregistered car sitting on my property?
No, it’s not illegal as long as you’re not driving it on public roads. You can keep an unregistered vehicle on private property. But if it’s parked on the street or council land, you may face fines or removal. If you no longer want the vehicle, scrapping it is often the best solution.
Do I get paid more if my car has active registration?
Not likely.
Scrap cars are usually valued based on weight, metal type, and parts, not registration status. Active rego may help with quick ID checks, but won’t increase your cash payout. It may be worth cancelling the rego to avoid future reminders or charges.
If you’re not sure what to do, speak with a licensed scrap car buyer. They can guide you based on your situation, even if the car has no rego, plates, or working parts left.
Conclusion and Call to Action
What is a registration number for a car, and is it required to sell your car for scrap?
Now you know. It’s the identifier printed on your number plates and car papers. In Western Australia, it links your vehicle to the road-licensing system. But when it comes to scrapping your car, that number is helpful but not required.
If your car’s rego has expired, the plates are gone, or the paperwork is long lost, you can still sell the car. All you need is some way to show that the vehicle belongs to you. That could be a past invoice, a licence with matching address, or just the VIN number. There’s no need to register the car again or pay any more fees.
BestCash4Carz makes the entire process of selling your scrap car quick and legal.
We’ve helped people across Perth remove old cars that haven’t run in years. Our team can guide you through every step, whether your car has active rego or none at all. We don’t mind if the plates have been returned or the car’s been sitting idle forever. If you’ve got a scrap car, we’re ready to help you move it out and get paid for it.
- No current registration? We’ll take it anyway.
- No number plates? Not a problem.
- No paperwork? You still have options. Call us and we’ll help you work it out.
You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
Whether you’re cleaning up your driveway, saying goodbye to your first clunker, or helping your family get rid of a car no longer used, we’re here for you. We follow WA law, offer fair rates, and take care of the messy bits.
Ready to scrap that car?
Get in touch with BestCash4Carz. We’ll ask a few quick questions, sort out the documents, and get you paid fast. Our team serves all over Perth’s metro area and handles both registered and unregistered vehicles.
Your old car might be worthless to you. But it’s still worth cash to us.