Car roadworthy certificates in Melbourne

Need a roadworthy certificate in Melbourne? Cox Auto is a licensed vehicle tester providing inspections you can trust with quick turnaround times. Our inspections meet the official roadworthy requirements set by the Victorian Government.

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VicRoads accredited inspectors

Cox Auto is officially authorised by VicRoads as a licensed vehicle tester to carry out RWC inspections and issue certificates. That means your vehicle is inspected to ensure it meets all worthiness requirements for Victorian roads.

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One-year parts guarantee

If we fit a part to help your vehicle pass its roadworthy inspection and it fails within 12 months, we’ll replace it at no cost. It’s part of our promise to use trusted parts and stand behind every repair we make.

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Upfront costs, no surprises

When it comes to pricing, we keep things simple. Cox Auto’s mechanics will give you a clear quote before we begin any roadworthy certificate inspection, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.

An Audi and two Mercedes-Benzes in Cox Auto’s South Melbourne garage, polished and ready for pick-up after getting their roadworthy certificates.

Selling your car, re-registering or addressing defect notices?

Cox Auto’s veteran mechanics will guarantee your vehicle meets the safety standards for public road use. With nearly half a century of experience with servicing prestige import cars, we can guarantee a meticulous review, giving you or your buyer unassailable peace of mind. Book online now for an inspection by Cox Auto’s licensed vehicle testers.

Four luxury cars up on car lifts in Cox Auto’s South Melbourne garage, waiting for our qualified mechanics to continue assessing them for roadworthiness.

Why is a roadworthy certificate important?

A roadworthy certificate proves your vehicle meets Victoria’s safety standards. Some European cars have complex electronics, braking systems, and tight tolerances, so they demand a specialist inspection with dealer-level diagnostics and know-how by experienced technicians. Costs vary by model; scroll to the service cost section for exact details.

What does Cox Auto check during a roadworthy inspection?

To issue a certificate of roadworthiness, our licensed testers must confirm your vehicle’s safety according to standards set by the Victorian Government. During your car service, we complete a full safety check and assess the condition of the vehicle across all key metrics.

This includes inspecting your vehicle’s:

  • Check icon Wheels and tyres
  • Check icon Steering, suspension and brakes
  • Check icon Seats and seat belts
  • Check icon Windows and windscreen (including wipers and washers)
  • Check icon Lights and reflectors
  • Check icon Vehicle structure
  • Check icon Safety components such as brakes and seat restraints.
  • Check icon Any other items included in the car roadworthy checklist VIC requires.
A qualified Cox Auto technician performing an engine diagnostic under the hood of a European vehicle.

How much will it cost to get a roadworthy certificate in Victoria?

Cox Auto’s roadworthy inspections begin at $250. We’ll give you a transparent breakdown of what’s included and where you’re getting your value. We’ve lasted nearly 50 years by giving our word and sticking to it, so you can trust you’ll get exactly what you need to make your car safe.

Four luxury cars up on car lifts in Cox Auto’s South Melbourne garage, waiting for our qualified mechanics to continue assessing them for roadworthiness.

We’re proud to service Melbourne suburbs

You’ll find our garage in South Melbourne, where we assess and repair prestige vehicles from all of the inner city suburbs, from Richmond to Port Melbourne, Docklands to St Kilda. Come see why nearly a thousand locals have given Cox Auto 5-star Google reviews.

Two Cox Auto mechanics reviewing their pre-purchase inspection checklist before writing up a detailed report for their client.

How to get a roadworthy certificate in Victoria

Booking your roadworthy certificate assessment with Cox Auto is quick and straightforward. Simply choose your service, share your details, and we’ll take care of the rest.

  1. Select your preferred date, and provide vehicle details and contact information.
  2. Confirm your booking, and request a loan vehicle or our valet service.
  3. Drop off your vehicle at the agreed time.
  4. Collect your vehicle once the inspection is complete.
Book now for the expert car service Melbourne trusts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a roadworthy certificate (RWC) in Victoria?

A roadworthy certificate (also known as a certificate of roadworthiness) is an official statement that your vehicle is safe enough to be used on public roads. A roadworthy certificate is required by law in Victoria whenever a used vehicle is sold, re-registered, or cleared for a defect notice. The certificate is issued by a licensed vehicle tester after a successful inspection.

How do I get a roadworthy certificate in Victoria?

To get your roadworthy certificate, simply book an inspection with a licensed vehicle tester like Cox Auto. We’ll inspect your vehicle for safety compliance, advise on any issues, and issue the certificate if it passes. You can book online or call us to schedule your inspection.

Where can I get a roadworthy certificate in Melbourne?

You can get a roadworthy certificate from any VicRoads-licensed vehicle tester. Cox Auto provides RWC inspections at our South Melbourne workshop, serving drivers across Melbourne’s inner suburbs.

How long does a roadworthy inspection take?

Most roadworthy inspections take between 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the condition of the vehicle. If repairs are needed, you’ll have 14 days to return for a re-inspection. Certificates are issued on the same day for vehicles that pass.

Do I need a roadworthy certificate?

Victorians need a roadworthy certificate if they are selling a car privately, re-registering a vehicle, or clearing a defect notice. You won’t need a certificate if you’re transferring ownership to a spouse, trading to a dealer, or selling a trailer under 4.5 tonnes.

How long is a roadworthy certificate valid for?

A roadworthy certificate is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. It must be current when submitted to VicRoads roadworthy certificate guide for registration purposes. If your vehicle fails, you’ll have 14 days to return for a re-inspection.

Do I need a roadworthy certificate for my caravan in Victoria?

If your caravan or trailer exceeds 4.5 tonnes ATM, a roadworthy certificate is required for initial registration and any future ownership transfer. Lighter trailers are generally exempt from needing a RWC certificate.

Do all vehicles require a roadworthy certificate in Victoria?

Most used cars in Victoria need a roadworthy certificate to be sold or re-registered. However, brand new vehicles and certain specially constructed or off-road vehicles may be exempt under roadworthy requirements VIC regulations. If you’re unsure about your vehicle’s condition, it’s worth reviewing how safe your car really is to better understand the potential risks.

Can I sell my vehicle without a roadworthy certificate in Victoria?

You can sell without a certificate if you’re transferring to a dealer, a spouse, or a light trailer. But for private sales or registration, you must get your roadworthy certificate from an approved provider.

How much does a roadworthy certificate cost in Victoria?

The cost of a roadworthy certificate in Victoria starts from $250.00. Additional fees may apply depending on the inspection results, cost of repairs, and whether your vehicle requires replacement parts to meet roadworthiness standards.