The Personal Property Securities (PPS) Register is the national register for recording security interests in personal property, including vehicles.
You’re required to do PPS Register search to find out if the vehicle has a clear title.
If you deal in second-hand vehicles, you must conduct a PPS register search and enter the search number on the notices sold with the vehicle.
This information explains how the PPS Register affects you.
How do I search the PPS Register?
Access the PPS Register online or call 1300 007 777. You’ll need to provide the vehicle’s identification number (VIN) or, if it doesn’t have a VIN, the chassis number. No other search criteria is provided and you should ensure that the number entered is correct.
What is included in a search of the PPS Register?
A single search of the PPS Register will provide national information so you’ll be able to find out whether there is any registered debt or other interest in a vehicle in any State or Territory in Australia. A search of the PPS Register will also create a request for vehicle information from the National Exchange of Vehicle and Driver Information System (NEVDIS). Depending on the information NEVDIS holds, this will include written off and stolen status information in addition to make, model, colour and other information. Note that there will be no provision for searching or registering an interest by plate or engine number on the PPS Register. No protection is provided by the PPS Act if an incorrect VIN or chassis number is provided.
What will it cost?
Each search of the PPS Register which shows no security interest will provide protection under the Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (Cth). You’ll be able to print a search certificate for each search result at no additional cost. All searches are subject to a fee.
Why is the expiry date of a security interest important under PPS reform?
The registration of a security interest in a vehicle will generally have an expiry date of no longer than seven years from the date of registration. Expired registrations will not be found when searching on the PPS Register, with the result that the security holder (the secured party) is no longer fully protected if the security interest continues to exist.
If you register an interest and the full payment has not been made by the expiry date recorded on the PPS Register you can extend the expiry date to ensure continued protection of your interest. This must be done before it expires.
Need more information?
Go to the PPS website for more information and you can also subscribe to receive the monthly PPS newsletter and other updates. General enquiries can be sent to [email protected].