Short-term registration

So you like the idea of short-term rego? Find out if you’re eligible and how to get set up before your next renewal is due.

About short-term rego

If your rego expires on or after 1 January 2018, you could be one of the first to make the switch to three or six month registration periods, or you can continue with the standard 12 month renewal period.

If your rego expired before 1 January 2018 you can’t change your registration period for your current renewal, however you can still log in and select short term rego so you’re all ready to go the next time your renewal is due.

Will I be eligible?

Short-term registration will be available if you drive one of the following:

  • Car
  • Ute
  • Van
  • Motorbike, or
  • Mobile plant vehicle.

Heavy vehicles and heavy trailers already have short-term registrations options.  

Please note: short-term rego isn't available for light trailers, caravans, boats or vessels.

How can I apply?

Short term rego selections are now open. Set up your myVicRoads account and select your chosen registration period from three or six months. 

If your rego’s due, you can only do this Monday to Friday 7:30am - 8:15pm, Saturday 7:30am - 8:15pm or Sunday 12:00pm - 8:15pm.  If it’s not due, you can change your rego period whenever you like.

Sign up to myVicRoads

Register your interest in myVicRoads business account

How does it work?

Short-term rego lets you register your vehicle for shorter periods. That means less money upfront compared to an annual lump sum. We’ll let you know when your registration period is coming to an end, but if your registration isn't paid, your vehicle will be unregistered. Penalties apply for driving an unregistered vehicle and it can be costly to get it back on the road.

Short-term rego is different to an unregistered vehicle permit. 

You can pay for your short-term registration the same way you normally do (i.e. online, phone etc) however an additional fee of $2.45 will apply for each renewal.

Have a concession or discount?

If you have one of the following applied to your vehicle you're still eligible for a discount on your registration:

  • Pensioner concession
  • Health Care Card concession (see below for details)
  • Department of Veterans’ Affairs concession
  • Primary producer concession
  • Apprentice discount (see below for details)
  • Hybrid vehicle discount

The $2.45 service fee doesn't apply to concession card holders.

Health Care Card concession

Your concession card must be valid when your rego’s due. If it expires before this, you’ll need to pay the non-concession price.

Apprentice discount

If you have an apprentice discount you can choose a short-term registration period, however, you’ll need to re-apply for your apprentice discount before the end of each registration period. This includes re-submitting your application (and supporting paperwork) and undergoing employer checks.

What happens when a vehicle is transferred?

When a vehicle is transferred, the registration period automatically reverts to 12 months. Once you get your registration renewal, you can opt to change to a short-term renewal.

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