Selling a Car That Isn’t in Your Name in WA

Perhaps your parent is no longer able to drive, your partner has got an old car in the way, or your employer has a company vehicle that needs to be disposed of. Can you sell a car that is not in your name in WA? This is a common question asked by Perth locals. Often you can help but permission and proper documentation are first steps. 

Can You Sell a Car That Isn’t Registered in Your Name?

Not as yourself. Only the registered owner, or someone with legal authority to act on behalf of the owner, can sell and transfer a vehicle. The vehicle licence shows who DoT has recorded as the owner, but it doesn’t answer all the ownership questions such as finance owing or an estate that isn’t finalised.

There is a difference between setting up a sale and being legally allowed to sell. One thing is to organise buyer enquiries or a pick-up with the owner’s consent. Another is signing the ownership papers. If you are selling a car for somebody else, obtain written permission from the owner and check what authority you have. 

Selling a Parent’s or Partner’s Car

Selling a family member’s car in WA is generally straightforward when the owner is happy to sign. They do their part of paperwork and you do the practicals like photos, phone calls and booking a pick up.

It becomes more complex when the owner is deceased or unable to make decisions. For a deceased estate, the DoT requires a Declaration of Deceased Estate (E172) form and the transfer cannot be done online. If the owner has lost capacity you will need a formal power of attorney or equivalent so seek legal advice first. 

Selling or Removing a Company Car

A company car is a business asset, not a personal asset of any individual employee or director. The business owner, director or other authorised company representative must give approval. The best practice is to have a signed letter on company letterhead. It also helps to determine if the vehicle is leased or financed. And that makes Perth company car removal a lot easier. 

What Documents May You Need?

Requirements vary, so confirm the details with DoT before you proceed. Commonly, you may need:

• Photo ID for yourself
• Vehicle details, including registration number, VIN, make and model
• The owner’s written permission
• Proof of your authority, such as a power of attorney, company approval or estate documents
• The transfer paperwork, noting that a WA seller must notify DoT within seven days of ceasing to be the owner

How WA Car Removals Can Help

WA Car Removals is a local car removal service in Perth and surrounding areas. We'll discuss your vehicle with you, confirm ownership and the authorisations required and then arrange removal if the car is eligible.

Whether you’re looking for cash for cars in Perth or a free car removal in Perth, we’ll explain your options clearly. Free Removals – This depends on the car and your circumstances so ask us before you book. 

Ready to Move the Car On?

If you plan to sell a car that’s not yours, you’ll need the right permission and the right paperwork. Get both in place, and the rest of the process goes a lot smoother.

Want to get rid of your vehicle? Call WA Car Removals on 0422 622 617 to talk about your vehicle and learn how we can help.