Special interest registration

The Tasmanian Government made an election commitment to undertake a review of the Special Interest Guidelines and Application process.

The review will consider whether changes should be made to allow campervans to enter the scheme or for participating vehicle to tow or carry a load.

The Special Interest Vehicles scheme is unique to Tasmania. It provides discounted registration for motoring enthusiasts’ eligible vehicles. It includes light vehicles that are at least 30 years old and are of a high standard in appearance and quality that makes them of interest to the public.

Conditions of Special Interest registration include a maximum 104 driving days a year.

An online survey seeking feedback on the scheme has now closed. All feedback will be collated and outcomes will inform proposed amendments to the scheme and a revised handbook will be produced.

Special Interest (SI) registered cars and motorbikes can now display any style of personalised plate.  
SI vehicle operators who already own personalised plates can visit a Service Tasmania Centre to return their SI plates and apply to use personalised plates.

Alternatively, you can order a personalised plate and have it applied to your existing SI vehicle.

How to change to a personalised plate?

Replacing existing SI plates with existing TasPlates, custom plates or old-style personalised plates that you own:

1. Return special interest plates to a Services Tasmania Centre.
2. Complete an application for replacement certificate of registration and/or number plates (PDF 198.2 KB).
3. Pay the fee.

Replacing existing SI plates with new TasPlates:

1. Order personalised plates from the TasPlates website.
2. Once you receive the TasPlates return special interest plates to a Service Tasmania Centre.
3. Complete an application for replacement certificate of registration and/or number plates (PDF 198.2 KB).
4. No fee.

What classification of my SI vehicle can I use my personalised plates for?

Class A, B and C.

What is not included in personalised plates on SI registration?

Vintage Cars.

Can a personalised plate be transferred from one SI vehicle to another?

Yes.

Please contact Vehicle Registration on (03) 6166 3262 or via email vehicle.registration@stategrowth.tas.gov.au.

Special interest is separated into three classes: A, B and C

To be registered under class A your vehicle must be:

• made at least 30 years from the date you apply
  • or be a street rod vehicle.
• in exceptional condition inside and out either in original, restored or modified condition.

To be registered under class B your vehicle must be:

• adapted and suitable for rally competitions; and
• you must hold relevant rally competition licence (CAMS or AASA).

To be registered under class C your vehicle must be:

• adapted for charity events
  • including TasBash, Variety and other recognised events.

Please note

Campervans cannot be registered under the special interest scheme.

How often can I use a vehicle on special interest registration?

You can use a Special Interest Registered vehicle for:

• 104 days if renewed for a 12-month period, or
• In the event the registration is renewed for 3- or 6-months, 104 days of use in total over a 12-month period.

You must record all vehicle use within the logbook you were provided, and carry the logbook in the vehicle at all times.

You must also:

• continue to have another fully registered vehicle in your name
• not use the vehicle to carry a load
• not use the vehicle for hire or reward
• maintain the competition license requrements of the particular class.

Special interest vehicles pay lower registration by having:

• an exemption from motor tax
• a lower MAIB insurance rate.

1 b.  If applying for class B or class C Special Interest Registration submit the application form and necessary supplementary information to Registration and Licensing Services.  If compliant with Class B or C conditions an Approval In Principle will be issued.

1. Take your vehicle to be inspected at an Approved Inspection Station.
2. If successful, submit your application at Service Tasmania with:
   1. your inspection report
   2. an approval in principle (for category B, C only) issued by Registration and Licensing Services
   3. your previous registration plates or details of your personalised plates (whichever is applicable)
   4. your Tasmanian licence or evidence of identity
   5. proof of entitlement.

If your application is approved, you will receive:

• black and white “SI” registration plates
• a certificate of registration
• a certificate of approved operations (listing the conditions of use)
• a special interest logbook.

You are unable to transfer special Interest registration to a new owner.

If you are selling your vehicle you must:

• cancel your registration
• return your “SI” plates
• return your logbook.

The new owner will need to make a new application if they wish the vehicle to stay on the scheme.