Trade Plates

A trade plate allows the use of unregistered vehicles on public streets.

Trade plates also come with a certificate that gives the owner of the plate use for 12 months.

Trade plates can be used by businesses involved in different motor vehicle and trailer activities including:

You can use a trade plate to drive a vehicle:

From the place a vehicle is manufactured to a place of sale
For test drives
- With a member of the public driving, or
- To demonstrate the vehicle to a member of the public
To deliver the vehicle
- Before a sale
- After a sale
For other purposes relating to
- Manufacture
- Repair
- Modification
- Sale

Trade plates can only be used:

By someone authorised by the plate holder
For no longer than 36 hours on a single vehicle at any one time
If they are attached to the rear of the vehicle and clearly visible
- They may be attached in another position if permitted

The holder of a trade plate must keep records containing details of the use of vehicles under the authority of the trade plate:

In a manner and form acceptable to the Registrar – see Key Links for ‘Trade Plate Record of use example’
Journey and vehicle information records to be retained for 12 months beyond the trade plate expiry date.

If your application is approved you will receive a:

A renewal notice will be sent to you.

You will need to renew your trade plates every 12 months at a Service Tasmania shop.

Trade plates cannot be renewed online or at Australia Post.

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