NZTA Deregistration When Scrapping Your Car: Complete NZ Guide

One of the most important — and most overlooked — steps when scrapping a car in New Zealand is notifying NZTA that the vehicle has been disposed of. Failing to do this can leave you liable for fines, ACC levies, and other costs associated with the vehicle. Here's everything you need to know.

Why You Must Notify NZTA

Under New Zealand law, when you dispose of a registered motor vehicle — whether by scrapping, selling, or donating — you must notify the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA). This officially removes the vehicle from your name and ends your legal responsibility for it.

If you don't notify NZTA, you could remain liable for:

• Parking fines or infringement notices issued against the vehicle
• ACC levies if the vehicle is re-registered by someone else
• Any fines or violations incurred if the vehicle is illegally driven after collection
• Potential insurance issues

The MR15 Form: What It Is and How to Complete It

The MR15 is NZTA's "Notice of Disposal" form. It formally records the transfer or disposal of a vehicle. You can complete it:

• Online: Through the NZTA website at nzta.govt.nz (fastest method)
• At a PostShop: Many NZ Post outlets process MR15 forms in person
• At a Vehicle Licensing Agent: Any NZTA licensing agent can process the form

You'll need to provide the vehicle's plate number, the date of disposal, and the details of the person or company the vehicle was disposed to. For scrapping purposes, you'll enter our company details.

What Happens After You Submit the MR15?

Once submitted, NZTA processes the notification (usually within 1–2 business days) and the vehicle is officially removed from your name. You'll receive confirmation either by email or post. Any upcoming registration renewal notices will no longer be sent to you.

Can I Scrap an Unregistered Vehicle?

Yes — we accept unregistered vehicles. Since the vehicle is being scrapped rather than put back on the road, it doesn't need to be registered. However, you should still complete a "Notice of Disposal" if you have a record of being the registered owner at any point. If the vehicle has been unregistered for a long time, you may need to provide additional documentation — our team can help you work through this.

Refund of Registration?

If your vehicle has unexpired registration at the time of scrapping, you may be eligible for a partial refund of the registration fee. This can be claimed through NZTA when you submit the MR15 form. The refund is calculated based on the number of complete months remaining on the registration.

How Scrap My Car NZ Helps with NZTA

Our team understands the paperwork involved in scrapping a vehicle can seem daunting — especially if it's your first time. When we come to collect your vehicle, we'll walk you through the MR15 process step by step. We'll provide you with our company details to enter on the form, and we'll confirm your identification to ensure everything is in order.

If you have questions about the NZTA process before your collection, call us on 0800 000 523 — our team is happy to help.