How to re-register a car in NZ

If your vehicle’s registration has been cancelled and you want to drive it legally on New Zealand roads, you need to re-register the car. In NZ, vehicles are deregistered when rego (registration) expires for more than 12 months, are written off by an insurer, or the owner cancels registration due to the vehicle being damaged and destroyed. Re-registering a vehicle involves compliance, safety inspections, and repairs (if needed). Today, we will learn how to re-register a car through a step-by-step guide, including costs and when re-registration is not financially worth it.

Who is eligible to re-register a vehicle?

To re-register a vehicle, it must be roadworthy and meet safety standards. Additionally, the vehicle must have been registered in New Zealand before.

Step-by-step: how to re-register a car in NZ

Step 1: Confirm vehicle re-registration appointment: Find an entry certifier near you, such as VINZ, VTNZ, and AA, and contact them to book an appointment. Since your vehicle is deregistered, you can’t drive your vehicle on the road; you need to be towed or transported by another vehicle.

Step 2: Bring the required proofs: You need evidence that your vehicle has been registered in New Zealand before, as well as your driver’s license or passport. Note: If you bought an unregistered vehicle, then you need the proof of previous ownership.

Step 3: Entry certification inspection: The entry certifier will:

• Inspect and certify the vehicle.
• Charge the inspection and certification fees; the fees will vary by certifier. The re-registration fee for a vehicle that’s been registered in the past is $6.33, and the compliance inspection fee costs approximately $450 to $650+GST.

Step 4: Get a new registration: If your vehicle passes, it will be eligible for re-registration. You will receive a document to re-register your vehicle at a vehicle licensing agent. Some inspection sites are vehicle licensing agents where you can register your vehicle immediately after passing the inspection. You will need to pay approximately $450 in registration and licensing fees. It includes the cost of the new number plates and the necessary licence labels. The fees are determined by legislation and vary based on vehicle type, engine size, and intended use.

Step 5: Get back on the road: Now you can drive your vehicle on the road legally. Make sure your vehicle has number plates, license labels, an inspection label, and a road user charges (RUC) licence label (if applicable).

When is re-registration not worth it?

In some cases, the cost of repairing and re-registering a vehicle is much higher than the vehicle’s actual market value. For example, if you have a damaged 2010 Honda Jazz/Fit with a market value of around $ 1,500, re-registering it may not be financially sensible.

If you plan to re-register it, you first need to ensure it is roadworthy by making necessary repairs. The cost of repairs will depend on the extent of damage. Additionally, you should expect to pay $400-$600 for a mandatory compliance and safety inspection. If your vehicle passes this inspection, then the license and registration fees are around $450.

You could easily spend up to $ 1,500 or more on a car worth only $ 1,500. In that case, re-registering it doesn’t make sense. Instead, selling it to a salvage car buyer is a more practical option. You don’t need to repair your vehicle to sell it. They offer free pickup and an easy, hassle-free way to sell your car.