In Victoria, a Roadworthy Certificate (also known as a Certificate of Roadworthiness or commonly referred to as an RWC) is an official document that signifies a vehicle’s compliance with safety and roadworthiness standards. This certificate is required in various situations, particularly during the sale of a used vehicle, to ensure that the vehicle is safe for road use.
Key points about the Roadworthy Certificate in Victoria
The Roadworthy Certificate is issued to demonstrate that a vehicle meets the minimum safety standards established by the state’s road traffic authority, VicRoads. It is intended to ensure that vehicles on the road are safe for the driver, passengers, and other road users.
Inspection
To obtain a Roadworthy Certificate, the vehicle needs to pass an inspection conducted by a licensed vehicle tester. This inspection covers various essential components of the vehicle to ensure they are in a suitable condition for safe operation.
The only workshops and service centres that can issue a Roadworthy Certificate must be approved to do so. These can include large franchises catering to servicing and tyres, dealerships, and independent service centres.
Validity
The certificate is typically valid for 30 days from the date of issue. This means that if you’re selling a vehicle, the certificate should be presented to the buyer within this timeframe.
A Roadworthy Certificate can be used for multiple transactions within the 30-day validity period. For example, if a vehicle is not sold during this time, the same certificate can be used if you decide to re-register or transfer ownership of the vehicle.
When a RWC is not required
There are certain scenarios where a Roadworthy Certificate might not be required, such as transferring ownership within a family, or if the vehicle is being registered interstate.
Considerations
It’s important to note that a Roadworthy Certificate focuses on the vehicle’s safety-related components, not its overall condition or mechanical soundness. Buyers are still encouraged to conduct thorough checks and inspections beyond what’s covered by the Roadworthy Certificate when purchasing a used vehicle.