The roadworthy certificate (RWC) is a very important document for vehicle owners, as it certifies the car is safe to be on the road due to compliance with the safety standards. Is there a way for me to sell a car without one? Whether you’re a seasoned merchant or an amateur, there are rules you have to know. We explore whether you can sell a car without roadworthy and what you should be aware of.
Selling of Private Vehicle in Australia
The process of selling a registered vehicle privately differs between Australian states. You can sell without an RWC But you’d better know when not to.
Perth Roadworthy Certificate Regulations
There is no legal obligation to have a roadworthy certificate when selling a car, however it’s highly advisable that you do, to prove the good condition of your vehicle. While not mandatory, having an RWC helps streamline the transaction as it shows the car is safe and in a roadworthy condition. Such a proactive stance sometimes will even make the resale value of corn higher. Because regulations may change, sellers should keep updated and make sure their car is able to pass all safety standards before selling.
Victoria Roadworthy Certificate Regulations
In Victoria you can sell a car without an RWC if the vehicle is sold unregistered and registration is cancelled. This is including handing back number plates to VicRoads before selling. An RWC is also needed when a car with plates changes hands for a transfer of registration unless the car is built-up and not designed for passenger or goods transport.
RWC Term Validity: An RWC is valid for 30 days after the date in which it was issued. Be sure it’s up to date, so you won’t fall afoul of the law.
Queensland Roadworthy Certificate Regulations
Queensland requires a safety certificate for any sale of a registered car privately (no matter how old the car). The certificate is supposed to be in clear view when you are buying (except where selling to a dealer).
Duration of Validity: Safety Certificate is valid for 3 months or 1000 kms for Dealers, and 2 months o r200 kmds for all others. It is necessary to obtain a certificate for each new sale.
ACT Roadworthy Certificate Regulations

- In the ACT, the categories of car that need a roadworthy and/or Certificate of Inspection include:
- Vehicles over 6 years old
- Interstate registration transfers
- Clearing defect notices
- Re-establishing cancelled registrations
- Co @Everette ) New private car registrations
- Valid up to: Maximum validity for 1 month from the date of inspection.
What if You’re Selling Through a Dealer?
Dealers will generally have a roadworthy test done so buyers don’t require an RWC. Large companies and licensed dealers will be selling cars with both certificates and registration documents.
Can You Get Fined for Selling a Car Without a Roadworthy Certificate?
Fines vary by state. Most states do not have penalties, however, Queensland sellers can be fined more than $700 if they do not have a current safety certificate when selling.
Consignment sales Sell Your Vehicle WA Auto Parts offers consignment with very competitive rates or outright purchase if you wish.
If your car does not have a registration or roadworthy certificate then WA Auto Parts can assist. We purchase any kind of used car or small vehicle and simplify the process.
Call WA Auto Parts on tel:(08) 9358 1392 for help and an easy selling process. We will ensure that selling your car becomes easy and profitable!


