What is a Roadworthy Certificate?
A roadworthy certificate is generally required when a vehicle is sold, or if a used vehicle is to be re-registered. This helps reduce the number of poorly maintained vehicles or vehicles in disrepair on the road. The aim is to reduce accidents and breakdowns.
A roadworthy certificate can only be issued by a licensed vehicle tester, operating from a nominated garage or service station.
The roadworthiness test is not a check of the mechanical reliability or general condition of the vehicle. A roadworthy inspection only covers the major safety related items, including:
- wheels and tyres
- steering, suspension and braking systems
- seats and seat belts
- lamps and reflectors
- windscreen and windows including front windscreen wipers and washers
- the structure of the vehicle itself
- other safety related items on the body, chassis or engine.
If the vehicle fails on any of the above points you will receive a rejection notice. You will then have seven days to repair the problems and return to the tester for a second inspection of these problems. If seven days pass you will need to submit the vehicle for a complete inspection again.
Roadworthy certificates are valid for 30 days from the date of issue. There is no set cost for a roadworthy certificate so be sure to ask for a quote from your selected licensed mechanic.
In some cases, a roadworthy certificate is also required to clear a Vehicle Defect Notice or a Notice of Unroadworthiness. Defect notices are issued mainly by the police, but also VicRoads (and equivalent interstate) inspectors and the Environmental Protection Authority.
Doncaster Service Centre is a licensed vehicle tester and can check all makes and models of cars and 4wd’s. Contact us for a roadworthy certificate quote and to make a booking.
