The Western Australian Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure has launched an online registration service for off-road vehicles (ORVs), replacing the previous in-person requirement. The change follows an update to the Control of Vehicles (Off-road Areas) Act 1978, which now allows registrations to be completed via the DoTDirect platform.
Streamlined Process for Quad Bikes and ATVs
All ORVs, including quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles, must be registered before use in permitted areas across the state. Previously, owners had to sign a statutory declaration confirming age and ownership, and agree to comply with noise and safety rules. While these requirements remain, the process is now fully online, eliminating the need for a physical visit to a licensing centre.
Local Government Minister Hannah Beazley said the off-road vehicle community and local governments had advocated for this change. “The new process will be easier and more convenient, with proceeds from registration fees re-invested into the community through the creation of new ORV areas and the maintenance of existing sites,” she said.
Funding for Facilities and Better Data
Proceeds from registration fees are directed into the State Government’s Off-Road Vehicle Account, used to build, upgrade, and maintain ORV areas. The Motor Trade Association of WA (MTA WA) noted that the in-person requirement had led to very low registration rates, limiting the ability of government and police to track vehicle numbers, investigate illegal activity, and return stolen vehicles.
Improved registration data is expected to help authorities understand demand for off-road areas and make informed decisions on investment. MTA WA chief executive Neil Le Febvre said the changes simplify the process for owners and help deliver better outcomes. “MTA WA has been actively calling for a simpler and more accessible registration process for off-road vehicles,” he said. “We need better information about ORV usage to support smart planning and investment.”
Long-Term Benefits for Riders
Le Febvre emphasised that every registration contributes directly to the dedicated fund for off-road vehicle areas. “The more vehicles that are registered, the more funding becomes available to maintain existing areas, improve facilities and develop new places to ride,” he said. He added that MTA WA would continue to advocate for compulsory registration at the point of first sale, which he believes is the best way to ensure accurate vehicle records.
Vehicle owners making new registrations can choose between a registration sticker or plates. Registrations can be completed at transport.wa.gov.au/licensing/vehicle/license-vehicle/license-register-off-road/register-off-road.
