Get a registration certificate

Part of the Registration topic

Get a Queensland vehicle, trailer or boat registration certificate.


In short

You can use this service to get a registration certificate for a Queensland vehicle, trailer or boat.

When you get a certificate online, you can choose to email or print it.

See How to get a registration certificate for the full process and other ways to get a registration certificate.

Start the online service

What you should know

A registration certificate provides details about the vehicle, trailer, or boat. It does not prove ownership or current registration, and you do not need to carry it in Queensland or while driving interstate.

A registration certificate displays:

  • registration number and expiry date
  • name of the person or organisation the vehicle, trailer or boat is registered to (registered operators)
  • year of manufacture, make and model, and body shape
  • badge, colour, and number of seats (for vehicles)
  • vehicle identification number (VIN) or chassis number (for vehicles and trailers)
  • hull identification number (HIN) or serial identification number (SIN) (for boats)
  • engine number (for vehicles and boats)
  • number of cylinders or rotors, and fuel type (for vehicles)
  • tare weight and aggregate trailer mass (ATM) (for trailers)
  • registration category
  • purpose of use (for example, private or commercial)
  • compulsory third party (CTP) insurer (for vehicles) and CTP class (for vehicles and trailers)
  • whether a motorcycle is approved for learners (if applicable)
  • conditions of use (if applicable).

Registration certificates do not always show the address of the registered operator. The address is only included if we automatically send you a certificate.

When we automatically send certificates

If you’re signed up for e-notices or if you're an organisation without an Australian Company Number (ACN) recorded with Transport and Main Roads, we'll automatically send you a registration certificate when:

  • you register a new or unregistered vehicle, trailer or boat in Queensland (including when you buy a vehicle from a dealer)
  • a registration is transferred into your name
  • the renewal payment amount has changed due to registration updates
  • the registration period is varied at renewal (due to over or under payment)
  • a common due date vehicle is renewed
  • a change is made to your registration (such as CTP insurer or class, category, number plate).

For individuals, we'll email your registration certificate within 24 hours. For organisations, we'll post the registration certificate.

If you don't get a certificate automatically, you can get a certificate another way.

How to get a copy of a previous certificate

You may be able to get a copy of a previous certificate online (for individuals).

  1. Log in to your transport account (My account)
  2. Select View my history
  3. Find the certificate date in the list under either:
    • Online transaction history for certificates requested online in the past
    • e-notice and e-reminder history for certificates we automatically emailed to you, if you are signed up for e-notices.
  4. You can View document or email a copy of the certificate.

If you cannot get a copy of the certificate online, message us or call 13 23 80.

Who can use this service

You can get a registration certificate if:

  • the vehicle, trailer or boat is registered in Queensland.

Don't use this service if:

  • you only need to check the status of a registration or see when it is due for renewal
    Instead, see Check a registration status. You can also find out some details about the registration, such as the vehicle identification number (VIN).
  • the registration has been cancelled, or transferred to another person or organisation
    Instead, log in to your transport account (My account) and follow How to get a copy of a previous certificate.
  • the vehicle, trailer or boat has been stolen and you need a certificate for your insurance provider
    Instead, message us or call 13 23 80 for advice.
  • the vehicle has been written off and you need a certificate for your insurance provider
    Instead, message us or call 13 23 80 for advice.
  • the vehicle, trailer, or boat is registered in another state or territory  
    Instead, get a certificate from the state or territory that manages the registration.

How to get a registration certificate

Choose how to get a registration certificate and follow the steps.

How long it takes

It should take less than 5 minutes to get a certificate online. It will take longer if you message or phone us to request a certificate, or if you visit a service centre in person.

How much it costs

There is no cost for this service.

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