Guide · updated 2026-10-09

Historic and club registration for classic cars, state by state

Short answer

Every state offers a cheaper, limited-use registration for older vehicles, usually through a recognised club. You normally have to be a club member, keep the car close to original, and log the days you drive. Rules, age limits and day counts change, so confirm with your state transport authority and your club.

How it usually works

Join a club recognised by your state
Have the car inspected or signed off by the club
Apply with the state transport authority
Record each trip in a logbook if your scheme uses one

By state (check the official page)

NSW: Historic Vehicle Scheme and Classic Vehicle Scheme, for vehicles 30+ years old, with a 60-day logbook option. Historic cars must stay close to original; Classic allows some modifications
Victoria: Club Permit Scheme — VicRoads
Queensland: special interest vehicle concession — Queensland Government
South Australia: Conditional Registration Scheme — Government of South Australia
Western Australia: concessional licensing for older vehicles — Department of Transport WA
Tasmania, ACT and NT: historic registration through recognised clubs — check your state or territory transport authority

Things to know

Limited-use registration doesn't cover daily driving or commercial use
Modified cars may need a different scheme
Keep club membership current, or the registration can lapse

Sources

General information only, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules change; check the official source.

Track your car's real cost and value, free.

Record what you paid and every cost since, then follow the market for your car.

Create free account ↗