What the free NSW check shows
- Registration expiry date, and whether the registration is suspended or cancelled
- Any registration restrictions or concessions
- The compulsory third party (CTP) insurance provider and policy expiry date
- The three most recent yearly odometer readings (if available) — useful for spotting wound-back odometers
What you'll need
- The vehicle's NSW registration plate number
That's it — no account needed. The Service NSW mobile app can also scan a number plate with your phone camera, which is handy if you're inspecting a car in person.
Steps
- Open the official Service NSW check using the button below.
- Select the "Check online" option and accept the terms.
- Enter the NSW plate number and submit.
- Review the registration details — you can print the result from your browser.
Run the check on the official portal:
Check on Service NSW — official NSW portal(opens the official government site)
Buying a used car in NSW? The free Service NSW check doesn't cover finance owing, write-offs, or stolen status. Before you buy, do the official $2 PPSR vehicle search at ppsr.gov.au — if money is still owing on the car, the lender can repossess it from you.
NSW rego check FAQs
Is the Service NSW rego check free?
Yes, completely free — online and in the app. Service NSW itself warns that third-party websites charging a fee for this basic check are not connected to the government in any way.
Can I check a car with interstate plates?
Why do the odometer readings matter?
The check shows the three most recent yearly odometer readings on record. If a seller claims the car has done 80,000 km but last year's reading was 140,000 km, the odometer has likely been tampered with — walk away.
Will it show me the owner's name?
No. NSW does not disclose the registered owner's identity through the public check. Ask the seller for the plate or VIN up front — a legitimate private seller won't hide it from a buyer doing their homework.