Need a Victorian roadworthy certificate? M Carter Automotive carries out roadworthy inspections at our workshop in Alphington, Melbourne. We inspect cars, SUVs and 4WDs against Victorian roadworthiness requirements and explain the result in plain language.
Whether you are selling a vehicle, transferring registration or re-registering it, contact us to book an inspection and get a quote for your vehicle.
What Is a Roadworthy Certificate?
A Victorian roadworthy certificate confirms that a licensed vehicle tester found the vehicle met the applicable roadworthiness requirements at the time of inspection. It is about basic safety and compliance, not a guarantee of long-term mechanical condition.
- Confirms the vehicle meets minimum safety standards
- Is required for registration transfer or sale
- Is issued only by licensed inspectors
- Is valid for a limited time (30 days)
- Guarantee the vehicle’s long-term reliability
- Replace a full mechanical inspection
- Cover cosmetic condition
- Predict future repairs
A certificate records the vehicle’s roadworthy condition at the time of inspection. It is not a full mechanical or pre-purchase inspection, and it cannot guarantee that every component will keep working after the test.
For the official requirements, see Transport Victoria’s roadworthy certificate guide.
When Do You Need a Roadworthy Certificate in Melbourne?
In Victoria, a roadworthy certificate is commonly needed when selling or transferring a registered vehicle, re-registering an unregistered vehicle, or clearing some defect notices. Exemptions and different requirements can apply, so check the current Victorian guidance for your situation.
Our workshop is at 166 Grange Road, Alphington. Tell us what vehicle you have and why you need the certificate when you book. We will confirm the appointment, explain the inspection result and discuss any next steps if the vehicle does not pass.
What Is Checked During a Roadworthy Inspection?
A Victorian roadworthy inspection looks at safety-related items such as tyres, brakes, steering, suspension, lights, seatbelts and the vehicle structure. The sections below give examples; the tester applies the current Victorian requirements to your particular vehicle.
Tyres and Wheels
- Minimum legal tread depth
- Tyre condition (no cuts, bulges, or exposed cords)
- Correct tyre sizes and matching pairs
- Wheel condition and secure fitment
Braking System
- Brake pads and disc condition
- Brake fluid leaks
- Brake balance and effectiveness
- Handbrake operation
Steering and Suspension
- Steering rack and linkages
- Excessive play or looseness
- Shock absorbers and springs
- Suspension bushes and joints
Lights and Electrical Systems
- Headlights (low and high beam)
- Brake lights, indicators and hazard lights
- Number plate lights
- Dashboard warning lights related to safety
Windscreen, Wipers and Washers
- Windscreen cracks or chips in critical vision areas
- Wiper blade condition and operation
- Washer spray functionality
Seatbelts and Restraints
- Seatbelt condition and secure mounting
- Retractor function
- Airbag warning light operation
Vehicle Body and Structure
- Structural rust or corrosion
- Securely mounted panels
- Doors, bonnet and boot latching correctly
Exhaust and Emissions
- Exhaust leaks
- Excessive noise
- Visible smoke
Each inspection item is checked strictly as per VicRoads standards.
If the first inspection identifies defects, arrange the required repairs and return the vehicle to the same licensed tester within 14 days. Transport Victoria says a reinspection within that period avoids paying the full test fee again; after 14 days, a new test fee applies.
You can discuss repair work with us, but you may choose where the repairs are carried out. Contact us if you need to clarify the report or book the reinspection.
How long should I allow for a roadworthy inspection?
Allow around two hours for the inspection, although the time can vary with the vehicle and any issues found. Let us know the make, model and any modifications when booking so we can give you realistic timing and a quote.
How Long Is a Roadworthy Certificate Valid?
What Happens If My Car Fails the Roadworthy Inspection?
If the vehicle does not meet the roadworthy requirements, the tester gives you a report identifying the items that failed. These must be repaired before a certificate can be issued.
Ask us to explain the report and quote for any work you would like us to complete. You can also have the repairs done elsewhere and return for reinspection within the applicable 14-day period.
If you are selling a registered vehicle privately, check whether a current roadworthy certificate is required for the transfer. VicRoads says the seller should give the buyer the certificate when one is required.
Because the certificate is current for 30 days, book the inspection with your expected sale date in mind. If the vehicle needs repairs, allow extra time for those and any reinspection.
If you are buying a used vehicle, check whether the seller needs to provide a current roadworthy certificate for the transfer. The certificate confirms the vehicle met the roadworthy requirements at the time of inspection, but it does not assess overall mechanical reliability.
For a broader picture of the vehicle’s condition before you buy, arrange a separate pre-purchase mechanical inspection.
If you are working to a sale or registration deadline, tell us when you enquire. We can confirm the next available inspection appointment and an estimated turnaround for your vehicle.
A certificate can only be issued once the vehicle passes the inspection. If defects are found, repairs and reinspection may take extra time, so please allow for that when planning a transfer.
We inspect European cars, SUVs and 4WDs. If your 4WD has a suspension lift, different wheels or other modifications, tell us when booking so we can discuss the vehicle and the paperwork it may need.
A roadworthy inspection is not the same as engineering approval for vehicle modifications. For that, see our VASS engineering certification service.
Before you book your roadworthy inspection
When you contact us, tell us the vehicle’s make and model, whether it has any modifications, and when you need the certificate. We can then discuss the inspection appointment and quote.
Our Alphington workshop handles the inspection and can explain the result and any defects listed in the report. If you would like us to carry out repairs, ask for a separate quote; the inspection outcome is based on the Victorian requirements, not on whether you book repair work with us.
Servicing vs Roadworthy – Understanding the Difference
A roadworthy inspection checks whether the vehicle meets the applicable safety requirements at the time of testing. A service maintains the vehicle and may identify wear or mechanical problems, but it does not replace a roadworthy inspection when a certificate is required.
Likewise, a roadworthy certificate is not a full service or a comprehensive pre-purchase mechanical inspection.
Book Your Roadworthy Certificate in Melbourne with Confidence
For a standard roadworthy inspection, book online through Repairy and select Roadworthy Inspection. Tell us your vehicle make and model, any modifications, and when you need the certificate. For a vehicle that needs a tailored quote or if you have questions, contact us and we’ll advise before the appointment.
Ready to Book?
Call 0458 909 474 or use the form above. Please include the vehicle make and model and let us know if you are selling, transferring or re-registering it.