A roadworthy certificate, often referred to as an RWC, might not be the most glamorous part of car ownership, but in Australia, it’s one of the most important. Whether you’re buying, selling, or re-registering a vehicle, an RWC is your official ticket to hit the road legally. So, what exactly is it, and how do you get one without pulling your hair out? Let’s dive into the nuts and bolts of this essential document—with a healthy dash of Aussie common sense.
What Is a Roadworthy Certificate?
In a nutshell, a roadworthy certificate is proof that a vehicle is safe enough to drive on public roads. It doesn’t guarantee the car is in perfect mechanical condition or that everything is shiny and new, but it does mean it meets the basic safety standards set by the state.
In Victoria, for example, an RWC is needed when:
- Selling or transferring ownership of a vehicle
- Re-registering an unregistered vehicle
- Clearing a vehicle defect notice
Each state has slightly different rules, but the principle remains the same across the board: no roadworthy, no dice.
What Does the Inspection Cover?
A licensed vehicle tester performs a thorough inspection to ensure your car is roadworthy. Here’s what they’ll check:
- Tyres, wheels, and suspension
- Brakes
- Seats and seatbelts
- Lights and reflectors
- Windscreen, windows, and wipers
- Vehicle structure and chassis
- Steering and engine leaks
And no, you can’t bribe your way out of bald tyres or a dodgy headlight. Your car has to pass fair and square.
How Long Is It Valid?
In Victoria, an RWC is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. So, if you’re thinking of selling your car, don’t dawdle. Get it inspected and listed pronto before the certificate expires and you have to go through the process again.
Other states like Queensland and New South Wales have different time frames, so always check the requirements for your location.
Quick Comparison Table:
| State | RWC Validity Period | Issued By |
| Victoria | 30 days | Licensed Vehicle Tester |
| Queensland | 2 months (private) | Approved Inspection Station |
| New South Wales | Not required for sale | Authorised Unregistered Vehicle Inspection Station (for registration) |
The Cost of Getting Roadworthy
You’re probably wondering: how much is this going to set me back?
In Victoria, the cost isn’t fixed and depends on the vehicle and the tester. On average:
- Cars: AUD 150 to AUD 200
- Motorcycles: AUD 100 to AUD 130
If your car fails the first test, you typically have 7 days to fix the issues and get a re-check—free of charge if it’s within that window.
What Happens If You Fail?
Failing an RWC isn’t the end of the world. The tester will provide a list of defects to be fixed before the car passes. You can then:
- Repair the items yourself (if you know your way around a spanner).
- Get a mechanic to do the dirty work.
- Return within the re-check period to avoid additional inspection fees.
For example, according to data from VicRoads, the top reasons vehicles fail include:
- Worn tyres (30%)
- Faulty brakes (22%)
- Defective lights (15%)
Why It Matters
Getting an RWC might feel like another bit of bureaucratic red tape, but it’s actually a crucial part of keeping Aussie roads safe. In 2022, the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics reported over 1,200 road fatalities in Australia. A significant number of these were linked to vehicle defects.
Source: BITRE Road Safety Statistics
Making sure vehicles on the road meet a basic safety standard could be the difference between a close call and a tragic accident.
Roadworthy vs. Comprehensive Safety Inspection
Let’s clear up a common mix-up. A roadworthy inspection is not the same as a comprehensive vehicle check. An RWC focuses solely on safety—it’s not looking at:
- Engine performance
- Transmission wear
- Air conditioning
If you’re buying a second-hand car, it’s smart to go for a full mechanical inspection in addition to the roadworthy to avoid being stuck with a lemon.
Wrapping It Up
If you’re in the market to sell, transfer, or register a vehicle in Victoria (or other parts of Australia), an RWC is your must-have document. It keeps you, your buyers, and your bank account protected. And sure, it may feel like just another tick-box task, but it’s one that could save lives on the road.
At AVW Group, we make the roadworthy process smooth and straightforward. Our licensed testers don’t just hand you a checklist—they help you understand exactly what needs fixing and why. Book an appointment with us today and get your car ready to go, no dramas.
