A roadworthy certificate confirms that a vehicle meets minimum safety standards for use on public roads. However, certificate rules differ between Australian states and territories. Before deciding to sell your car, check the requirements where the vehicle is registered.
Check Your State’s Rules
In Victoria, most registered vehicles being sold require a current Certificate of Roadworthiness. Queensland uses a Safety Certificate. Since July 2025, Queensland sellers can advertise a registered vehicle before obtaining the certificate, but it must be provided before disposal.
New South Wales does not normally require a roadworthy certificate to transfer a currently registered vehicle, although safety inspections can be relevant to registration renewal. Western Australia and South Australia have no routine pre-sale certificate requirement for standard registered vehicles.
The ACT requires an inspection for vehicles more than six years old when registration is transferred. Northern Territory requirements can depend on the vehicle and transaction, so checking the relevant transport authority is advisable.
Selling an Unroadworthy Vehicle
If the vehicle has failed an inspection or has known safety defects, you should not present it as roadworthy. Be transparent about its condition and explain that repairs or further inspection may be necessary. Depending on your state, an unregistered or defective vehicle may need to be sold to a dealer, dismantler, or buyer who understands registration requirements.
A private buyer may still consider the vehicle. However, transporting an unregistered or unsafe car can involve additional requirements, so arrange collection rather than allowing the vehicle to be driven unlawfully.
Consider Repairing It First
If a certificate is legally required, compare repair and inspection costs with the vehicle’s expected selling price. Minor issues such as worn tyres, defective lights or brake problems can sometimes be resolved relatively easily. More substantial mechanical or structural faults may make repairs uneconomical.
Obtain an estimate before committing to repairs. This lets you compare the cost of making the vehicle compliant with the potential reduction in value from selling it without certification.
Prepare the Paperwork
Even where a roadworthy certificate is not required, keep evidence of ownership, registration details, service records and repair receipts. A clear description of the vehicle’s condition can reduce misunderstandings with buyers.
Complete the transfer or disposal paperwork promptly after the sale. Requirements differ between jurisdictions, so use official transport services to confirm the process.
Considering Carbuyers
For owners who would rather avoid managing advertising, inspections and buyer enquiries themselves, companies such as Carbuyers can provide another route for disposing of a vehicle. The suitability of this option depends on the car’s condition, registration status and the company’s purchasing criteria. As with any sale, confirm the offer, payment arrangements and ownership-transfer process before handing over the vehicle.
Final Thoughts
There is no single Australian rule requiring every seller to have a roadworthy certificate. Your obligations depend on your state, registration status and the circumstances of the sale. Check the rules first, disclose known defects honestly, and consider whether repairs make financial sense. With the right preparation, you can sell your car responsibly while avoiding unnecessary costs and complications, and make sure the buyer understands what they are purchasing before payment.
