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PPSR Vehicle History Check — Used Car Search (Personal Property Securities Register)

The PPSR used car search is a $2 federal government check that tells a prospective buyer whether a vehicle has money owing on it (and could be repossessed), is recorded as stolen, or is listed as a write-off on the national NEVDIS database.

Issuing authority

Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA) — Commonwealth

Official source

ppsr.gov.au

Cost

$2 per search

How to apply

  1. Obtain the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or chassis number of the vehicle you intend to purchase — this is usually on the compliance plate, dashboard, or in the vehicle's registration papers.
  2. Go to ppsr.gov.au and select 'Search' then choose the used car / vehicle search option.
  3. Enter the VIN or chassis number into the search field.
  4. Pay the $2 search fee by credit card — the search runs instantly once payment is processed.
  5. Review your results: the certificate will show any registered security interests (finance/encumbrances), and NEVDIS-supplied data indicating whether the vehicle is recorded as stolen or as a statutory/repairable write-off.
  6. Download and save your search certificate — it is a legal record of the results at the time of search and can provide some protection if the vehicle turns out to have undisclosed encumbrances.
  7. If the vehicle shows as encumbered, stolen, or written off, do not proceed with the purchase without seeking legal or financial advice — contact the PPSR Enquiry Line on 1300 007 777 for guidance.
  8. If the vehicle shows as clear, proceed with confidence noting the certificate reflects the register at the time of the search only.

Related topics

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