Write-off records
Available written-off classification can affect registration.
Australia · Independent guide
PPSR Car Check: start with the right vehicle search.
Check registered finance and available stolen or written-off records, then decide if you need a fuller report or a state rego check.
In short: the official $2 PPSR vehicle search uses a VIN or chassis number. It checks registered security interests and usually includes available stolen and written-off data. A commercial report may add other recorded history; a state rego check answers a different question.
Before you hand over money
Five details worth checking
One search is a starting point. Compare the result with the car, paperwork and local registration record.
Stolen status
Available NEVDIS records may flag a reported theft.
Finance owing
A registered security interest can place your purchase at risk.
Odometer history
Some commercial reports may show recorded readings.
Registration
Check current details with the state or territory authority.
Choose your next step
Which vehicle check do you need?
Pick the question you need answered. You can use more than one check before paying for a car.
Is there finance, theft or a write-off record?
Start with the official PPSR search
Use the VIN for the $2 certificate. Available stolen and written-off data can be incomplete or delayed.
How the PPSR replaced REVS →Do you want extra recorded history?
Compare report fields first
A commercial report may add odometer or valuation data. Check the actual fields and price before paying.
PPSR vs car history report →Do you only have a number plate?
Check rego, then get the VIN
A state rego check can show registration status. Ask the seller for the VIN to run a PPSR search.
Choose your state above →Official search vs a commercial report
The official route is often enough for the core legal risk. Review a paid report’s included fields before buying it.
| Question | Official PPSR search | Commercial history report |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $2 online | Varies by provider |
| Finance owing | Registered security interest | Usually includes PPSR data; confirm |
| Stolen / written-off | Available NEVDIS data | Coverage varies; confirm |
| Odometer / valuation | Not the purpose of the PPSR search | May be included; confirm |
Source: PPSR vehicle search guidance, checked September 2026. Confirm the current fee and report fields on each provider’s website.
$2Official online PPSR vehicle search
17Characters in a standard VIN
1VIN to verify against the car and papers
Source: PPSR car check and VIN definition, checked September 2026.
This link goes to an independent public information service. We receive no commission from it.
Common questions
What does a PPSR car search tell me?
It checks for registered security interests and usually includes available stolen and written-off data. It does not inspect mechanical condition.
How much is the official search?
The PPSR currently lists $2 for an online vehicle search. Confirm the current fee on the official site.
Can I use a number plate?
The official PPSR search requires a VIN or chassis number, not a registration plate.
Why does this site have partner links?
We may receive a commission from future report or insurance partners. This does not affect your price. Current official information links do not pay us.