Getting a car is exciting, but it’s important to make sure it’s safe to drive. That’s where a safety certificate, also known as RWC or roadworthy certificate comes in. At Coastwide Service Centre, we want to help you understand why a safety certificate is important and how to go about getting one.
What is a safety certificate?
A safety certificate is a document that shows a vehicle has passed a basic safety inspection. This inspection checks key parts of the vehicle to make sure it’s safe to drive on the road. In Queensland, you need a RWC when transferring a vehicle’s registration to a new owner, re-registering an unregistered vehicle, or transferring a vehicle’s registration from another state or territory.
When do you need a safety certificate?
In Queensland, you need a RWC in these situations:
– Transferring registration to a new owner.
– Transferring to Queensland registration from another state or territory.
– Re-registering an unregistered vehicle.
Vehicles that need a safety certificate include:
– Cars.
– Motorcycles.
– Trailers (including caravans) with an aggregate trailer mass (ATM) between 750kg and 4,500kg.
– Any other vehicles up to 4,500kg gross vehicle mass (GVM).
What does RWC cover?
The inspection covers basic vehicle safety standards for many components, including:
– Tyres
– Brakes
– Steering
– Suspension
– Body rust or damage
– Windscreen
– Lights
The Vehicle Inspection Manuals explain how a safety certificate inspection is performed and the reasons a vehicle may fail an inspection. It’s important to note that a safety certificate inspection is not a comprehensive mechanical inspection on the quality or life expectancy of a vehicle. If you are buying a used vehicle, it’s a good idea to contact a motoring group such as RACQ for a full mechanical inspection.
Getting a safety certificate
A roadworthy certificate is no longer required before offering a registered vehicle for sale. However, you must still obtain a certificate before disposing of a registered vehicle, other than to a dealer. You may be fined over $700 for not having a current RWC when disposing of a vehicle.
Approved inspection stations (AIS) offer vehicle inspections and are the only businesses in Queensland that can issue safety certificates. An AIS will give you either a handwritten certificate or an electronically issued certificate. For electronically issued safety certificates, the AIS may email you a digital copy or give you a printed copy of the certificate.
Giving a RWC to the new owner
When you transfer registration of a vehicle, you must give a current RWC to the new owner. It is not the new owner’s obligation to obtain a safety certificate and you may be fined over $700 for failing to obtain and give a current roadworthy certificate.
You can give the new owner either:
– The original version of a handwritten certificate
– A digital copy of an electronic RWC
– The certificate number of an electronic RWC
The new owner will not be able to transfer the registration out of your name without a current rwc. You will remain liable for tolls and infringement notices issued for the vehicle while it remains registered in your name.
How long is safety certificate valid?
The validity of a safety certificate depends on who is selling the vehicle:
– Licensed motor dealers – certificates are valid for 3 months or 1,000km (whichever expires first) from the date of issue.
– All other sellers – certificates are valid for 2 months or 2,000km (whichever expires first) from the date of issue.
You can use the same RWC to register an unregistered vehicle and then transfer the registration, as long as you do this within the limits set out previously. You will need to get a new safety certificate every time you sell a vehicle, even if you sell it within the limits set out previously. A single certificate can be used for one transfer only.
When is a safety certificate not needed?
Selling a vehicle without a safety certificate
Vehicles that are unregistered or are traded to, or between, licensed motor dealers do not need a RWC. Vehicles can still be sold for parts, but they must be de-registered before being sold.
Transferring a vehicle without a safety certificate
You do not need a certificate if the vehicle meets one of the exemption criteria. Some exemption situations may include:
– The disposer being in an exempt remote area.
– A beneficiary of a deceased estate.
– Transfers between spouses (including separated married couples and registered partners until such time that the divorce or application to end the registered relationship is finalised).
A safety certificate is a key part of owning and selling a vehicle in Queensland. It makes sure that the vehicle meets basic safety standards, protecting you and others on the road. At Coastwide Service Centre, we are dedicated to helping you understand and obtain your safety certificate. Whether you’re transferring registration, re-registering a vehicle, or just need a basic safety check, our team is here to help. Remember, it’s not just about following the law; it’s about making sure your vehicle is safe for everyone.