In Queensland, a vehicle must undergo a safety inspection and obtain a roadworthy certificate before it can be sold, transferred, or re-registered.
At Car One Brisbane, we streamline the process, making it quick and clear.
Our certified mechanics guarantee that your vehicle complies with all safety regulations in Queensland, allowing you to drive legally and safely.
What Is a Roadworthy Certificate (RWC)?
A roadworthy certificate, often referred to as an RWC or safety certificate, is a legal requirement under Queensland Transport regulations.
It verifies that your car is safe for road use and that essential components such as brakes, tyres, steering, and suspension are functioning properly.
When You Need an RWC
You’ll need a roadworthy certificate if you’re:
- Selling your car or transferring ownership
- Re-registering a previously unregistered vehicle
- Registering a used car from another state
- Applying for some rideshare or commercial vehicle licences
Without a valid certificate, you can’t legally complete the sale or registration process.
The Roadworthy Inspection Process
At Car One, our licensed examiners perform detailed safety checks on all major systems.
These include:
- Tyres, wheels, and suspension
- Brakes and steering components
- Lights, indicators, and reflectors
- Windscreen, wipers, and mirrors
- Seatbelts and airbags
- Vehicle structure and chassis integrity
- Leaks and general condition
Our team ensures every part of your car meets the minimum safety standards set by Queensland Transport.
How Long Does a Roadworthy Certificate Last
A roadworthy certificate in Queensland is valid for two months or 2,000 kilometres, whichever comes first.
If you don’t complete the sale or registration within that time, you’ll need to book a new inspection.
What Happens if Your Car Fails the Inspection
If your vehicle doesn’t pass, don’t stress. Car One provides a full report detailing what needs fixing.
You’ll have 14 days to address the issues and return for a free re-inspection. Our workshop can handle all required repairs in-house to save you time and hassle.
Common Reasons Cars Fail a Roadworthy Check
- Worn brake pads or discs
- Tyres below legal tread depth
- Damaged suspension components
- Cracked or chipped windscreen
- Faulty seatbelts or warning lights
- Leaking fluids or corroded parts
By booking a pre-inspection service, you can fix these minor issues before the official test and avoid delays.
The Difference Between a Roadworthy and a Mechanical Inspection
A roadworthy certificate focuses only on basic safety items; it’s not a comprehensive mechanical evaluation.
For buyers or long-term owners, Car One also offers full mechanical inspections to assess the car’s overall health, including engine performance, transmission, and diagnostics.
Roadworthy Certificate Brisbane Prices
Car One offers competitive pricing on roadworthy inspections across our Hendra and Woolloongabba workshops.
Prices depend on the vehicle type (sedan, 4WD, or commercial) but remain affordable with no hidden charges. You’ll receive a clear quote before we start.
Preparing Your Car for Inspection
To increase your likelihood of passing on the first attempt:
- Clean both the inside and outside of your vehicle.
- Verify that all lights, indicators, and wipers are functioning.
- Ensure your tyres are inflated to the appropriate pressure.
- Refill essential fluids such as brake fluid and coolant.
- Check that seatbelts and mirrors are operating correctly.
A brief inspection prior to your appointment can help prevent small issues.
The Importance of Road Safety Compliance
Roadworthy certificates aren’t just bureaucracy; they save lives.
Ensuring every vehicle meets minimum safety standards reduces the risk of accidents caused by faulty brakes, worn tyres, or steering issues.
At Car One, we take safety seriously for every driver on Brisbane roads.
Car One’s Comprehensive RWC Service
When you schedule an RWC at Car One, you receive:
- A safety evaluation conducted by certified inspectors
- Genuine feedback and clear pricing
- On-location repairs for any components that did not pass
- Quick service and re-evaluation if necessary
- Certificates that are recognised across the state
We ensure that obtaining your RWC is easy and hassle-free.
RWC for European and Commercial Vehicles
At Car One, our team is skilled in evaluating a diverse array of vehicles, from high-end European automobiles to commercial fleets.
Our workshops are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to manage everything from compact cars to robust utility vehicles.
Why Choose Car One for Your RWC in Brisbane
- Licensed and accredited inspection station
- Same-day certificates available
- Clear communication and fair pricing
- Repairs and retests completed on-site
- Friendly, qualified mechanics
We take pride in helping Brisbane drivers stay safe and road-legal without unnecessary delays.
Book Your Roadworthy Certificate Today
Don’t risk fines or delays when selling or registering your car.
Book your RWC inspection with Car One today or contact our Hendra or Woolloongabba workshop. We’ll make sure your car meets every Queensland safety requirement, quickly and affordably.
FAQs
1. How long does a roadworthy inspection take?
Most inspections take between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on the vehicle’s condition.
2. What if my car fails the RWC test?
You’ll have 14 days to fix the issues and return for a free re-inspection at Car One.
3. Is a roadworthy certificate the same as a full inspection?
No. A roadworthy certificate covers safety items only. A full mechanical inspection checks the overall health of the vehicle.
4. Can I get a same-day roadworthy certificate?
Yes. Car One provides same-day RWCs for most vehicles at both Brisbane workshops.
