Can You Move a Car Without a License? Here’s What You Need to Know

Losing or having your driver’s license suspended or cancelled in New South Wales can put you in a tough spot. You might be wondering:
“Can I still move my car if I can’t legally drive?”

The answer is yes—you can move your car without a license, but not by driving it yourself. In NSW, driving without a valid license is not only illegal, but it also comes with harsh penalties under the Road Transport Act 2013 (NSW).

🚫 Is It Illegal to Drive Without a License in NSW?

Yes. It is illegal to drive a motor vehicle without a valid license in NSW.

According to the Road Transport Act 2013 (NSW), Section 53:

“A person must not drive a motor vehicle on a road unless the person is authorised to do so by a driver’s license.”

🔻 Penalties for Driving Without a License in NSW

You may also receive:

• A court summons

• Disqualification periods extended

• A criminal record in severe cases

✅ Legal Ways to Move a Car Without Driving It in NSW

Now that we’ve established you can’t drive it yourself, here’s what you can legally do in NSW.

1. Ask a Licensed Driver to Help

If the car needs to be moved locally, ask a friend, family member, or housemate who holds a valid NSW license to move the car for you.

Image suggestion: Show two people handing over car keys.
Alt Text: “Friend driving a car legally for someone without a license”

🟢 Pros:

• Quick, affordable

• Zero legal risk

• Ideal for short moves (e.g. driveway to street, parking to home)

🔴 Cons:

• You’re reliant on others

• Not ideal for long-distance moves

2. Book a Tow Truck or Roadside Assistance in NSW

If your car needs to be relocated over a longer distance or is not drivable, a tow truck is your safest bet. NSW has dozens of accredited towing services, including tilt tray and flatbed options.

In emergencies, NRMA or a Tow Truck can also tow your car even if you’re unlicensed, as long as you’re the owner.

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Alt Text: “Tow truck legally moving a car for an unlicensed driver in NSW”

• Legal and safe

• Good for damaged or unregistered cars

• Easy to book via phone or app

🔴 Cons:

• Costs vary depending on distance (usually $100–$300+)

3. Hire a Vehicle Transport Service

For longer or interstate vehicle relocation (e.g., Sydney to Melbourne), use a registered car transport company. They pick up your vehicle and deliver it safely.

Companies like PrixCar, CEVA Logistics, or Auto Transport Australia provide this service across NSW.

Image suggestion: A large car carrier truck loaded with vehicles.
Alt Text: “Interstate vehicle transport for unlicensed NSW driver”

🟢 Pros:

• Insured and professional

• Ideal for relocations, moves, or vintage car handling

🔴 Cons:

• More expensive (prices start around $350–$1,000 depending on distance)

4. Move It With a Car Trailer (If Legal)

If you or a friend owns a car trailer, and the towing vehicle is compliant with NSW Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) rules, this can be a DIY-friendly method.

Ensure:

• The towing vehicle is registered and roadworthy

• Proper tie-down and brake lights are used

• You or the driver has an appropriate license class for towing

🟢 Pros:

• Cost-effective if you have the gear

• Flexible scheduling

🔴 Cons:

• Trailer towing requires confidence and skill

• Still requires a licensed and insured driver

⚠️ What You Should Never Do

Here’s what you must avoid in NSW if your license has been cancelled or suspended:

❌ Driving Yourself

Even just down the street or in a parking lot—it’s still driving.

Police in NSW can charge you on the spot, and roadside cameras or mobile patrols can catch you.

❌ Using a Fake or International License

If you’re a resident of NSW, you cannot use an international license or someone else’s to avoid a suspension or cancellation. This could result in fraud charges and even jail time.

❌ Letting an Unlicensed Friend Drive

It might seem convenient to let a friend without a license move the car, but if they get caught:

• You could be held partially liable

• Your insurance may be void

👮 What if You’re Caught?

If police in NSW stop a car and discover the driver is unlicensed or suspended:

• The vehicle can be impounded

• The matter can be referred to court

• Additional demerit points and fines may apply

You can even be arrested on the spot, depending on the severity and your driving history.

📌 Legal Reference: NSW Road Transport Act 2013 – Sections 53–54, covering unlicensed and disqualified driving offences.

🧠 Quick NSW Legal Recap

• You can’t drive in NSW without a license under any circumstance.

• Fines start at $2,200 and can escalate to $5,500 and imprisonment.

• Police frequently conduct license checks during traffic stops or RBTs.

🧾 FAQs – Moving a Car Without a License in NSW

❓ Can I push my car on the street in NSW?

Technically possible, but risky. Pushing a vehicle on a public road can breach NSW pedestrian and traffic laws. Best done in private driveways or garages only.

❓ Can I use my international license if I’ve been suspended in NSW?

No. If your NSW license is cancelled or suspended, you cannot use any other license—international or interstate—to drive in NSW.

❓ Can I sit in the driver’s seat with the engine running?

Avoid this. If the engine is running and you’re behind the wheel, police may interpret this as intent to drive, leading to fines or charges.

❓ Can I legally tow my car with a rope or chain?

No. NSW laws require any towed vehicle to comply with vehicle safety regulations, and ropes or DIY tows are not legal on public roads unless in emergencies and under 200 metres.

❓ Can I have my vehicle towed to a repair shop or different address?

Yes, using a licensed tow truck service or NRMA roadside assistance, you can move your vehicle legally and safely across NSW.

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🏁 Final Thoughts: What You Need to Know

If your license has been suspended, disqualified, or cancelled in NSW, you must not drive your vehicle under any circumstances. But that doesn’t mean your car has to sit idle.

Instead, choose from legal, stress-free options like:

• Asking a licensed friend or family member

• Booking a professional towing service

• Using a car transport company

Doing the right thing protects your wallet, your record, and your safety.

👉 Need a Towing Company in NSW?

If you’re in Sydney Metro or anywhere across Suburbs  and need to move your vehicle fast—get in touch with a local towing company today. Search for tow truck near me” or call us on 0410 516 161