Registering and using a classic vehicle
If your classic vehicle is 30 years of age or older, you may be eligible for classic vehicle registration. Find out how to apply.
How to register a classic vehicle
You can apply for registration on classic vehicles under the Classic Vehicle Scheme (CVS).
Classic vehicles are 30 years of age or older that have certain modifications not permitted under the Historic vehicle scheme (HVS). Vehicles which are eligible to be registered under the HVS can also be registered under the CVS.
These modifications may be owner certified or significantly modified. If significantly modified, they must have a valid compliance certificate issued by a licensed certifier.
Classic vehicle registration is mainly for operators who only drive their vehicles occasionally. If you drive your classic vehicle more regularly, consider applying for standard registration. See used or secondhand vehicles.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the CVS:
- your vehicle must be 30 years of age or older, counted from the year of manufacture
- your vehicle must be 3.5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Mass or under
- your vehicle must comply with the applicable NSW vehicle standards
- you must be a current, financial member of a club affiliated with one of these approved organisations:
- your vehicle can be a replica or an Individually Constructed Vehicle (ICV) that is 30 years of age or older (based on the build completion date).
Important – industrial plant, agricultural vehicles and trailers are not eligible for the Classic Vehicle Scheme.
Contact your approved organisation or club to check if you are eligible for registration under the Historic Vehicle Scheme or Classic Vehicle Scheme.
Changing clubs
If you change clubs during your registration period you need to fill out a Classic Vehicle Declaration and get it signed by your new club. Take it to a service centre to get a replacement Certificate of Approved Operations.
Conversions
Vehicles converted to LPG are allowed providing they are approved by a Transport for NSW recognised historic vehicle club. Find out more about
File
VSI 14 LPG fuelled vehicles (PDF 3.55MB) .Applying for classic vehicle registration
You need a number of documents to register a classic vehicle. Find out the process for conditional registration of classic vehicles.
You should also read the classic vehicle sheet to find out the minimum mandatory conditions associated with your vehicle.
Renewing and cancelling registration
Find out how to renew or cancel registration on classic vehicles.
Transferring registration
You can't transfer classic vehicle registration. You need to cancel your registration before a new operator can register the vehicle in their name.
When classic vehicles can be used
If your vehicle has classic vehicle registration, it can only be used:
- for events organised by primary clubs affiliated with Transport for NSW approved organisations
- for events organised by community organisations if an official invitation is received and recorded by the primary club in the official minutes or 'Day Book'
- for short journeys to service and inspect the vehicle from your place of garaging
- on longer journeys if you notify your primary club and the details are recorded in the primary club's official minutes.
Classic vehicle log books
If you record your vehicle use in a classic vehicle log book, you can drive your registered vehicle for up to 60 days each year outside of organised club events. Find out more about historic and classic vehicle log books.
Using your vehicle for functions
If your classic vehicle is operating a passenger transport service – for example, for weddings or other functions – you must:
- comply with the Point to Point Transport (Taxis and Hire Vehicles) legislation – see Point to Point Transport
- seek approval from the club and have the details recorded in the organisation's official minutes or 'Day Book'.
Interstate vehicles and travelling outside NSW
If your classic vehicle is registered in NSW, you may temporarily use it in other states and territories. You'll need to abide by the same conditions that apply in NSW.
If you are visiting from interstate and your vehicle is registered under a similar scheme in your home state or territory, you may use it temporarily in NSW. You'll need to observe the same conditions that apply in your home jurisdiction.
Number plates and certificates
Once they are registered, classic vehicles must display classic vehicle registration number plates. Find out more about the Classic Vehicle Scheme number plate on our fact sheet (PDF 219.85KB).
Name bars may be fixed to the number plate, provided the position of the name bar does not obscure the number plate.
The Certificate of Approved Operations, detailing the conditions applicable to the operation of the vehicle, must be carried in the vehicle whenever it is used on a road or road-related area.
Towing and loads
Classic vehicles can tow a trailer that is either:
- fully registered
- exempt from registration
- has an unregistered vehicle permit or is conditionally registered.
Classic vehicles must meet these requirements if carrying a load:
- Loads cannot be carried for commercial purposes.
- Loads must be the private property of the vehicle operator and/or carried as part of a club event.
- Loads must be restrained to the standards detailed in the Load Restraint Guide
- Busses may only carry 7 occupants unless otherwise approved by Transport for NSW.