When you need one (and when you don't)
Required
Disposing of a registered light vehicle to a private buyer — the current certificate accompanies the transfer. Also required when re-registering an unregistered vehicle, and for interstate vehicles being registered in Queensland.
Not required
Just advertising or offering the vehicle for sale (rule change — the certificate is only needed at disposal), selling to or between licensed motor dealers, selling an unregistered vehicle, or exempt situations such as vehicles garaged in remote exempt areas.
Validity: 2 months or 2,000 km
For private sellers a certificate lasts 2 months or 2,000 km from issue, whichever comes first, and covers exactly one transfer. Selling the same vehicle again — even within the window — means a fresh inspection. Practical tip: don't inspect too early; time it so the certificate is alive when the buyer actually signs.
What it costs
The base inspection fee is set by TMR and indexes each 1 July — for a light vehicle at a workshop it sits around the $100 mark, while mobile examiners add call-out charges, putting typical all-in prices at $100–$180 depending on vehicle type and location. Repairs to fix any defects are always extra. Only approved inspection stations and licensed mobile examiners can issue certificates, and TMR's online AIS search finds your nearest by postcode.
What the inspection covers
It's a minimum safety standard check — tyres, brakes, steering, suspension, lights, windscreen and body condition — not a mechanical health report. A car can pass a safety inspection and still have engine or transmission problems, which is why buyers pair it with a free rego check and a $2 PPSR search before purchase.
If the vehicle fails
You receive a rejection notice listing every defect and generally 14 days to repair and return for reinspection. If the vehicle is unregistered and can't legally drive to a repairer, an unregistered vehicle permit covers the trip.
Frequently asked questions
Is a roadworthy the same as a safety certificate in QLD?
Yes. "Roadworthy certificate" (RWC) is the everyday name; Queensland officially calls it a safety certificate. Other states use different names — pink slip in NSW, certificate of roadworthiness in Victoria — but in QLD they are one and the same document.
How long is a safety certificate valid?
For private sellers, 2 months or 2,000 km from issue, whichever comes first. Each certificate covers one transfer only — selling again means a new inspection, even inside the validity window.
How much does it cost?
The base inspection fee is set by TMR and indexes each 1 July, with workshop inspections for a car typically around the $100 mark; mobile services add call-out charges, so all-in market prices commonly run $100–$180. Confirm the current fee when booking with an approved inspection station — and remember any repairs needed to pass are extra.
Do I need one just to advertise my car?
No — since a rule change, a certificate is no longer required simply to offer a registered vehicle for sale. You must have a current one when you actually dispose of the vehicle, unless selling to a licensed motor dealer or another exemption applies. The fine for skipping it is over $700.
What happens if my car fails?
You get a rejection notice listing the defects and generally 14 days to fix them and return for reinspection (providers may charge a reinspection fee). If the vehicle is unregistered, an unregistered vehicle permit lets you legally drive it to a repairer.
Who can issue a safety certificate?
Only approved inspection stations (AIS) licensed by TMR — workshops and mobile examiners. Certificates are issued electronically or handwritten; digital copies are fully valid.