How to renew your car's rego in New Zealand

What rego is, how long you can buy, and where to renew it. Driving unlicensed can mean a fine.

The short answerRegistration, or rego, is the licence that lets your vehicle be on the road. You can renew it online with NZTA, at some agents and post shops, for 3, 6 or 12 months. You don't need a WOF to renew rego, but you do need a current WOF to drive.

Rego and WOF are different

WOF shows the car passed a safety inspection.
Rego is the vehicle's licence. It also pays for road use.

You need both to drive legally on a public road.

How to renew

Go to the NZTA website and renew online with the plate number. Search for NZTA registration renewal.
Or renew at an agent such as an AA centre or a post shop.
Choose how long: commonly 3, 6 or 12 months.

Keep it current

Use our WOF due date checker to work out your dates, then save a free reminder so neither one slips. Find out how the changing WOF rules affect you in The new WOF rules.

Before you sell or buy

If you are buying a used car, check that the rego is current and ask for proof. See Buying a used car: pre-purchase inspection.

A note on prices

Costs depend on the vehicle type and the length you buy, and can change, so check the NZTA site for the current amount.

Questions drivers ask

Can I drive if my rego has expired?

No. A vehicle with expired registration shouldn't be driven on the road, and you can be fined.

Do I need a WOF to renew rego?

No. Renewing registration doesn't depend on having a current WOF, but you still need a WOF to drive.

Where can I check when my rego expires?

The NZTA website shows it from the plate number, and the label on your windscreen shows the date.

Checked by AutoPlace editorial team. General information, not professional advice. Updated 15 October 2026.