Vehicle Inspections in Australia: Roadworthy, Rego, and Safety Checks

Vehicle Inspections in Australia

Vehicle inspection requirements in Australia vary by state and territory. Some states require regular inspections for all vehicles, while others only require inspections at specific trigger points (such as registration transfer). Understanding your state's system ensures you stay on the right side of the law and helps you assess the condition of any vehicle you are buying or selling.

Before buying any vehicle, always run a VIN check and a PPSR check. Inspection history adds another layer of confidence.

State-by-State Requirements

New South Wales

NSW has a comprehensive inspection system. All vehicles require a safety check (pink slip) before registration renewal, plus a separate emissions check (blue slip) for older vehicles or those being re-registered. Light vehicles in certain areas require annual inspections, while newer vehicles may qualify for longer intervals. Check current requirements through Service NSW.

Unregistered Vehicle Inspection (blue slip) is required when re-registering a vehicle that has had its registration lapse, or when registering an interstate or imported vehicle.

Victoria

Victoria requires a Roadworthy Certificate (RWC) when a vehicle is sold, when re-registering a vehicle with lapsed registration, or when a vehicle is brought from interstate. There is no periodic inspection for registered vehicles — once registered, no annual inspection is needed.

Queensland

Queensland requires a Safety Certificate when selling a vehicle, registering an unregistered vehicle, or re-registering a vehicle with lapsed registration. There is no annual inspection for most light vehicles.

Western Australia

WA does not generally require periodic safety inspections for light vehicles. Inspections are required for vehicles being registered for the first time in WA (from interstate or overseas) and for vehicles over a certain age in some circumstances. Police can issue defect notices for vehicles that appear unsafe.

South Australia

SA requires inspections for used vehicles being transferred, vehicles from interstate, and in certain other circumstances. There is no annual inspection requirement for most light vehicles.

Tasmania, ACT, NT

Each territory has its own requirements. Tasmania requires annual inspections in some cases. ACT and NT have specific rules for vehicle transfers and registration. Check with the local transport authority.

What a Roadworthy Inspection Covers

A standard Australian roadworthy or safety inspection typically covers:

Brakes — effectiveness of service brakes and parking brake, condition of pads/shoes, discs/drums, lines, and fluid.

Steering and suspension — steering wheel play, condition of tie rods, ball joints, control arm bushes, shock absorbers, and springs.

Tyres — tread depth (minimum varies by state but generally at least the legal minimum), condition, matching on axles, and spare tyre condition.

Lights — headlights (aim and function), taillights, brake lights, indicators, reverse lights, number plate light, and fog lights.

Windscreen and glass — cracks, chips (particularly in the driver's critical viewing area), and wiper operation.

Body and structure — structural integrity, rust that compromises safety, sharp edges or protrusions, door operation, and bonnet latch.

Exhaust — condition, leaks, and excessive noise.

Seatbelts — all seatbelts must function correctly.

Mirrors — both interior and exterior mirrors must be present and functional.

How to Prepare

Before Your Inspection

• Check every external light — headlights, taillights, indicators, brake lights, reverse lights, number plate lights
• Inspect tyres for tread depth and condition — Australian regulations specify minimum tread depth
• Test the windscreen wipers and washers
• Check the windscreen for cracks — particularly in the primary vision area
• Test the parking brake
• Ensure all doors open and close properly
• Check mirrors are intact and adjustable
• Look under the vehicle for leaks or obvious damage
• Check the horn

Common Failure Points

• Burnt-out globes (the most common and cheapest to fix)
• Worn tyres (particularly uneven wear)
• Windscreen damage in the vision area
• Worn brake pads
• Leaking shock absorbers
• Worn suspension bushes (particularly on older vehicles)
• Exhaust leaks or excessive rust
• Missing or broken mirrors

Inspections When Buying or Selling

For Buyers

In states where a roadworthy or safety certificate is required for transfer (Victoria, Queensland, South Australia), the seller is generally responsible for providing it. If they cannot provide one, the vehicle may have issues that would fail inspection. In states without transfer inspection requirements, getting your own pre-purchase inspection is strongly recommended.

Important: A roadworthy certificate confirms the vehicle met minimum safety standards on the day of inspection. It does not guarantee the vehicle is in good condition overall or that nothing will go wrong. It is a minimum safety standard, not a comprehensive vehicle assessment.

For Sellers

Having a valid roadworthy or safety certificate ready streamlines the sale process. It gives buyers confidence and removes a potential deal-breaker. If your vehicle cannot pass, address the issues before listing — or price the vehicle accordingly and be transparent about the situation.

For a complete buying checklist, see our used car guide.

Where to Find Vehicles

Browse vehicles for sale on Tuble.vip — listings across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and all of Australia. Need auto parts to pass your inspection? Check our parts section.