BUSINESS LENDING HUB

Low Doc Car Loans for Tradies: What You Need to Know

Introduction

If you’re a tradie — plumber, electrician, carpenter, landscaper — you know your vehicle isn’t just transport, it’s part of your business. But when you don’t have up-to-date tax returns or formal financials, getting vehicle finance can feel impossible.

That’s where low doc car loans come in. This article explains how tradies across Australia are using low doc loans to secure the utes, vans, and trucks they need to keep working.


Why Tradies Use Low Doc Loans

Many tradespeople are:

  • Sole traders with irregular income

  • Running businesses with seasonal cash flow

  • Focused on jobs, not paperwork — meaning tax returns can lag

Low doc loans give tradies a way to access finance by providing alternative documents like bank statements or BAS, instead of formal financials.


What Vehicles Can You Finance?

With a low doc loan, you can often finance:

  • Utes for carrying tools and supplies

  • Vans for larger equipment or mobile workshops

  • Light trucks or trailers for heavy-duty jobs

  • Specialty vehicles (depending on the lender)

The key requirement: the vehicle is used at least 50% for business.


Case Study: Ben the Electrician

Ben runs a busy electrical business but hadn’t filed his latest tax returns yet. By providing:

  • 12 months of business bank statements

  • A valid ABN (active for 18 months)

  • A 15% deposit

Ben secured a $48,000 low doc car loan to upgrade to a dual-cab ute, helping him transport gear and win bigger contracts.


Tips for Tradies Applying

  • Keep your business bank accounts clean and well-managed

  • Save a deposit (10–20%) if possible to strengthen your profile

  • Provide as many alternative documents as you can (BAS, accountant letter)

  • Be clear about the business use of the vehicle when applying


Common Pitfalls

  • Applying too soon after starting your ABN (most lenders want 6–12 months of activity)

  • Assuming you don’t qualify because you lack tax returns

  • Not preparing supporting documents ahead of time


Final Call to Action

Are you a tradie ready to secure the vehicle your business needs?
✅ Check your eligibility in just 20 seconds — no commitments, no impact on your credit score.

Visit our Business Lending Hub here:
https://financetheride.com.au/pages/small-business-car-loans

 

DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this website is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your financial needs, circumstances and objectives and should NOT be construed as financial, taxation or legal advice. For more information, get in touch with our experienced partner brokers today.

Back to blog

Get Matched With a Low Doc Finance Specialist

- No tax returns required

- For ABN holders, sole traders and contractors

- Just straight answers - no pushy sales calls

All Your Questions Answered

What is a car loan and how does it work?

A car loan is a finance product where a lender provides funds for you to purchase a vehicle, which you repay over time with interest.

What’s the difference between secured and unsecured car loans?

Secured loans use the car as collateral, often leading to lower interest rates. Unsecured loans don’t, but usually have higher rates.

What loan terms are available for car finance?

Most car loans offer terms from 3 to 7 years. Find out what term suits you best.

How is interest calculated on a car loan?

Interest is based on the loan amount, term, and rate. Fixed-rate loans have predictable repayments, while variable rates can change.

Can I get a car loan for a private sale?

Yes, many lenders accept private sellers. You’ll need to provide extra documents.

Do government employees get lower interest rates on car loans?

Yes — many lenders offer better rates due to your stable income. Explore finance options for government employees.

Can I apply for a car loan while on probation?

Yes. Many workers are approved during probation.

What credit score do I need as a government employee?

A score of 650+ is ideal, but lower scores may still be considered.

Are corporate professionals eligible for low-rate finance?

Yes, especially if you're full-time with strong income.

Can I get car finance with a novated lease?

Yes, many government departments support novated leasing.

Can I get a car loan with no credit history?

Yes, it's still possible to get a car loan with no credit history.

What if I’ve been declined elsewhere?

A broker can help restructure your application for better results.

How do I check my credit score?

Use Equifax, Experian, or Illion for a free check.

Can I get finance if I have a current personal loan?

Yes, if your income supports both loans. A broker will assess your capacity.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typically: ID, payslips, and bank statements.

Can casual workers get car loans?

Yes, if you’ve worked consistently for 6+ months.

Can I apply if I’m self-employed with an ABN?

Yes. Consider a low-doc loan.

Can Centrelink be used as income?

Yes, when paired with PAYG income.

What’s the minimum income to qualify for car finance?

Most lenders prefer $30,000+ annually, but this varies.

Can I apply on a fixed-term contract?

Yes, especially if it’s government-backed.

Can I finance a used car?

Yes, most lenders allow used cars under 10 years old.

Can I get a loan for an SUV or family car?

Absolutely

Can I finance a caravan or motorbike?

Yes

Can I finance an EV or hybrid car?

Yes. You may even qualify for green car loan discounts.

Can I use my car for both work and personal use?

Yes you can.

What is a balloon payment?

It’s a lump sum due at the end of the loan term.

Can I make extra repayments?

Yes, many lenders allow this without penalty.

Can I pay off the loan early?

Yes — ask if there’s an early payout fee.

Is there a deposit required?

Not always.

What loan terms are available?

1 to 7 years is standard.

How long does approval take?

24–48 hours in most cases

Can I apply online?

Yes — most lenders and brokers accept online applications.

Is a broker better than going direct?

Often, yes. They can compare lenders for you.

Can I get pre-approved?

Yes — and it gives you better negotiating power at the dealership.

What happens after I apply?

Your documents are reviewed, and if approved, the lender issues funds to the seller.

Can I get a loan with a visa?

Do I need a driver’s licence to apply?

Yes, but learners may qualify with a co-applicant.

Can I apply with someone else?

Yes, joint applications are allowed.

Can I refinance my current car loan?

Yes — it can lower your repayments or get you a better rate.

Can I trade in my old car as a deposit?

Yes, many lenders accept trade-ins toward the deposit.

Can nurses get car finance?

Can teachers apply while on contract?

Do defence personnel get special car loan rates?

Yes, in some cases. Your job security is a major advantage.

Can FIFO government workers apply?

Yes — consistency in income matters more than job location.

Can I apply if I’m on maternity leave?

Yes, especially if you’re returning to work. Here’s how.

Can I use car finance to buy interstate?

Yes — just make sure the seller provides all required documents.

Can I finance a car from an auction?

Yes, but only through select lenders. Ask your broker first.

Will applying hurt my credit score?

Only if you apply to multiple lenders directly. Brokers help protect your score.

Can I get a car loan if I’ve been bankrupt before?

What if I want to upgrade my car before the loan ends?

You can sell the car, pay off the loan early, or refinance.