If your car registration in NZ has lapsed for more than 12 months, you cannot simply renew it. Once a vehicle remains unlicensed beyond the allowed timeframe, it must go through a full re-registration process before it can legally return to the road.
In New Zealand, passenger vehicles can remain unlicensed for up to 12 months. Motor vehicle traders may have up to 24 months to re-license vehicles, and some non-passenger vehicles such as trailers can also remain unlicensed for up to 24 months. After that period, the vehicle is removed from the active register and must complete entry certification before it can be registered again.
This guide explains how car registration works in NZ, what happens after 12 months, what the re-registration process involves, and what it typically costs.
Car registration in NZ means your vehicle is licensed for use on public roads. This is commonly referred to as “rego” and must be renewed periodically.
If your registration expires but remains within the allowed timeframe, you can usually renew it once a valid warrant of fitness (WOF) is in place.
However, if the registration has lapsed beyond the permitted period and the vehicle becomes deregistered, renewal is no longer possible. The vehicle must complete a full re-registration and entry certification process before new number plates and registration can be issued.
Re-registration is significantly more detailed than a standard rego renewal.
If your vehicle has been unlicensed for more than 12 months:
This process ensures the vehicle meets current New Zealand safety standards before returning to public roads.
One of the most common questions is:
How much does it cost to re-register a car?
Re-registration costs typically start from around $750 + GST, but the final cost depends on:
Vehicles in good condition generally cost less. Vehicles requiring structural repairs or extensive rework can cost significantly more.
The best way to understand likely cost is to have the vehicle assessed before booking certification.
Book your vehicle with an approved entry certifier such as Fasttrack Automotive Compliance or another NZTA-appointed certifier.
Interior trim may need to be removed to expose structural areas for inspection.
The inspection typically covers:
This inspection is far more detailed than a standard WOF.
If your vehicle passes, it moves to the registration stage.
If it fails, you’ll receive a list of required repairs. Once those issues are corrected, the vehicle returns for re-inspection.
Upon passing, you will receive the required certification documentation and new number plates so you can complete the re-registration process and legally drive the vehicle again.
Many people assume re-registering a vehicle is similar to getting a WOF. It is not.
A WOF checks roadworthiness for already registered vehicles.
Re-registration confirms:
Because the vehicle is re-entering the national registration system, the inspection is more comprehensive.
Addressing visible issues early can reduce delays and re-check costs.
Fasttrack Automotive Compliance can assist with:
If your vehicle fails inspection, required work can often be completed on-site, helping streamline the process.
Can I renew my registration after 12 months?
No. Once deregistered, full re-registration is required.
Do I get new plates when re-registering a car?
Yes. New number plates are issued once certification is complete.
Is re-registration more expensive than renewal?
Yes. Renewal is simple licensing. Re-registration involves inspection, certification, and potentially repairs.
Is re-registration required for imported vehicles?
Yes. Imported vehicles must complete entry certification before registration in NZ.
If your registration has lapsed or your vehicle has been deregistered, Fasttrack Automotive Compliance can guide you through the process and explain what’s required before booking.
Contact Fasttrack Automotive Compliance to get started.
