What ID and Documents Do You Need to Scrap Your Car in WA?

Scrapping your car in Western Australia (WA) is a smart way to dispose of an old, damaged, or unwanted vehicle while earning some quick cash. But before you call your local car removal service or scrap yard, it’s essential to understand the documents and identification you’ll need to legally scrap your car. 

This guide walks you through everything you need to prepare to ensure a smooth, legal, and profitable vehicle disposal process.

Contact Premier Metals today to sell your scrap metals at the best price at 08 6252 8500

Why Proper Documentation Matters

Scrapping a car is not just about handing over the keys and walking away. In WA, scrap metal dealers and car removal companies are regulated under state laws designed to prevent theft, fraud, and environmental violations. Having the correct documentation helps:

• Prove your legal ownership of the vehicle
• Prevent illegal vehicle disposal
• Comply with scrap metal and recycling regulations
• Ensure you get paid without delays

Mandatory Identification (ID) Requirements

As of recent updates to WA scrap metal laws, all sellers must provide valid identification when scrapping a vehicle. Acceptable forms of ID include:

1. Driver’s Licence (Preferred)

• WA driver’s licence or interstate equivalent
• Must include your photo, name, address, and date of birth

2. Passport + Utility Bill

• If you don’t have a valid licence, you may use a passport plus a current utility bill (gas, water, electricity) to confirm your address

3. Proof of Age Card or Other Government-Issued ID

• Accepted with supporting documents for address verification

Your ID is used to record the transaction and is usually scanned or photographed by the scrap car buyer as per WA regulations.

Vehicle Ownership Documentation

In addition to personal ID, you must provide documentation proving you own the vehicle. Acceptable documents include:

1. Vehicle Title (Certificate of Registration)

• While WA doesn’t issue traditional “titles” like other countries, the Certificate of Registration (rego papers) serves as proof of ownership
• Ensure the name on the certificate matches your ID

2. Bill of Sale or Purchase Receipt

• If you recently bought the car but haven’t transferred the rego yet, a signed bill of sale may be accepted

3. Statutory Declaration (If Papers Are Lost)

• If you lost your rego certificate, some scrap companies accept a signed statutory declaration confirming you own the car
• This must be witnessed by an authorised official (e.g., JP or police officer)

Do You Need a Rego to Scrap a Car in WA?

No, your car does not need to be currently registered to be scrapped or removed. Many scrap yards and car buyers accept:

• Unregistered vehicles
• Expired registration (even several years old)
• Written-off or wrecked vehicles

However, you must still prove that you legally own the vehicle with supporting documents.

Additional Documentation (If Applicable)

Depending on your situation, you may need other documents:

1. End-of-Life Vehicle Declaration

Some larger recycling facilities may require you to sign an end-of-life form stating that the vehicle will be dismantled or recycled, not returned to the road.

2. Company Vehicles

If the vehicle is owned by a business, you will need:

• Company ID
• Authorisation letter on company letterhead
• ABN details

3. Executor or Inherited Vehicles

If the registered owner has passed away:

• Death certificate
• Probate documents
• Statutory declaration that you have the right to dispose of the vehicle

What Happens After You Submit Your Documents?

Once you present your ID and vehicle ownership documents, the process generally goes like this:

1. Verification – The scrap buyer checks your documents and matches the VIN/rego number with the vehicle
2. Collection – A tow truck or flatbed collects your car
3. Payment – You are paid via bank transfer or non-cash method (as required by law in WA)
4. Recordkeeping – The buyer logs the transaction in accordance with the Scrap Metal Dealers Act

Penalties for Scrapping Without Proper ID or Paperwork

Failing to provide proper identification or trying to scrap a vehicle you don’t legally own can result in:

• Fines
• Vehicle impoundment
• Police investigation

It’s not worth the risk. Always be transparent and prepare your documents ahead of time.

Final Tips for a Smooth Car Scrapping Process

• Remove personal items from the vehicle before pickup
• Cancel your registration with the Department of Transport WA (you may be eligible for a rego refund)
• Take photos of the car for your records
• Check the buyer’s licence – Ensure they are a licensed scrap metal dealer
• Ask for a receipt for your own records

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I scrap a car in WA if it’s not in my name?

Only if you have documentation showing you have legal authority (e.g., a bill of sale, statutory declaration, or proof you are an executor).

2. What if I lost the rego papers?

You can still scrap the car by providing a statutory declaration along with your ID. Some buyers may ask for extra verification.

3. Do I need to be present when the car is picked up?

Not always, but someone must be available to present ID and sign off on the handover unless you’ve arranged a pre-signed document with the buyer.

4. Can I get paid in cash for scrapping my car in WA?

No. Under WA’s Scrap Metal laws, all payments must be made via bank transfer or cheque to prevent fraud.