Roadworthy certificate · RWC · Roadworthy
Roadworthy certificates in Victoria
In VIC the inspection is the Certificate of Roadworthiness (RWC). Here is when a buyer or seller needs one, how long it lasts and who can carry it out.
At a glance
- Official nameCertificate of Roadworthiness (RWC)
- Needed to sell?Yes, in most cases. The seller must give the buyer a roadworthy certificate when the vehicle requires one to transfer registration. A roadworthy certificate is valid for 30 days from issue.
- Valid forA roadworthy certificate is valid for 30 days from issue.
- Who inspectsLicensed vehicle testers
- AuthorityVicRoads
Unregistered and interstate vehicles
A roadworthy certificate is needed to re-register a vehicle, including most vehicles moving from interstate.
An inspection is not a history check
A roadworthy or safety inspection covers the car's condition on the day. It does not show finance owing, or whether the car has been reported stolen or written off. For that, run a PPSR check before you pay.
Rules change. This guide was last checked against VicRoads on 22 September 2026; confirm with them before you buy or sell.
VIC roadworthy FAQs
Do I need a roadworthy to sell a car in Victoria?
Yes, in most cases. The seller must give the buyer a roadworthy certificate when the vehicle requires one to transfer registration. A roadworthy certificate is valid for 30 days from issue.
What is a roadworthy called in VIC?
The official name is Certificate of Roadworthiness (RWC). You will also hear: Roadworthy certificate, RWC, Roadworthy.
Does an unregistered or interstate car need an inspection in VIC?
A roadworthy certificate is needed to re-register a vehicle, including most vehicles moving from interstate.
How long is a VIC inspection valid?
A roadworthy certificate is valid for 30 days from issue.
Who can carry out the inspection in VIC?
Licensed vehicle testers.
Does a roadworthy show if a car has finance owing or was written off?
No. An inspection checks the car’s safety on the day it is inspected. Finance owing, stolen and written-off records come from a PPSR check, which is a separate search.
Other states and territories
- New South Wales — Safety inspection report (pink slip)
- Queensland — Safety certificate
- Western Australia — Vehicle inspection (Certificate of Inspection)
- South Australia — Roadworthy inspection
- Tasmania — AIS inspection report
- Australian Capital Territory — Roadworthy inspection (Certificate of Inspection)
- Northern Territory — Roadworthy inspection