What is a Roadworthy Certificate & Why Would I Need One?

A Roadworthy Certificate (RWC) is an essential document that confirms a vehicle is safe to be driven on public roads. Issued by a licensed vehicle tester, this certificate is a legal requirement in many situations, particularly when selling a vehicle, transferring ownership, or re-registering a vehicle in a different state.

What Does a Roadworthy Certificate Cover?

The roadworthiness of a vehicle is determined through an inspection that focuses on the key components that ensure safety. The inspection includes checks on:

• Brakes and Suspension: Ensures that the braking system is functioning correctly and that the suspension components are in good condition to provide stability and control.
• Tyres and Wheels: Verifies that tyres have adequate tread depth and that wheels are in good condition, free from cracks or damage.
• Steering: Confirms that the steering system is responsive and free from excessive play or wear that could compromise handling.
• Lights: Checks that all lights, including headlights, indicators, and brake lights, are operational and meet legal standards.
• Windscreen and Windows: Assesses the condition of the windscreen and windows, including the wipers, to ensure clear visibility.
• Seats and Seatbelts: Inspects the integrity of seats and seatbelts to ensure they offer adequate protection in case of an accident.
• Chassis and Structure: Examines the vehicle’s structure for any signs of rust, damage, or wear that could affect its safety.

It’s important to note that the RWC inspection is not a comprehensive mechanical check. It only ensures that the vehicle meets the minimum safety requirements to be driven on public roads. For a more detailed inspection, a full mechanical inspection is recommended.
 

When Do You Need a Roadworthy Certificate?

• Selling Your Vehicle: If you’re selling your vehicle, especially a used one, you’ll need to provide an RWC to the buyer. This is to ensure that the vehicle is safe to drive and that it meets the legal requirements for registration.
• Transferring Ownership: When transferring ownership of a vehicle, either to a new owner or within family members, an RWC is typically required to complete the transaction legally.
• Re-registering in Another State: If you’re moving to a different state and need to re-register your vehicle there, an RWC will be necessary to comply with local regulations.
• Clearing Defects: If your vehicle has been issued a defect notice by the authorities, you’ll need an RWC to prove that the necessary repairs have been made and the vehicle is now roadworthy.
• Peace of Mind: Even if you’re not required to obtain an RWC, having one can give you peace of mind that your vehicle is safe to drive. It’s a good practice to get an RWC before embarking on long trips or after major repairs.

How to Obtain a Roadworthy Certificate

To obtain an RWC, you need to take your vehicle to a licensed vehicle tester, such as Great Lakes Auto Centre. The process typically involves booking an appointment, where your vehicle will be thoroughly inspected. If your vehicle passes the inspection, you’ll be issued an RWC. If it fails, you’ll be provided with a list of items that need to be repaired before the certificate can be issued.

Trust Great Lakes Auto Centre for your Roadworthy Certificate needs

At Great Lakes Auto Centre, we combine our expertise, state-of-the-art equipment, and commitment to customer satisfaction to provide unparalleled automotive services. Whether you need a simple check-up or extensive repairs, our team is here to help.

Contact us today to experience the Great Lakes Auto Centre difference. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is in capable hands. And don’t forget, with every service, we offer a complimentary car wash and can arrange low-cost rental cars through our partnership with Hertz.