Safety Inspections & Roadworthy

In Queensland, a roadworthy certificate (or safety certificate) is valid for 2 months or 2,000km, whichever comes first. This means once issued, you need to complete the transfer of ownership or registration within that timeframe. If it expires, you must arrange a new inspection to obtain a new certificate.

The cost of a roadworthy certificate can vary depending on the type of vehicle and inspection provider. On average, you can expect to pay between $90 and $120 for most cars. Larger vehicles like trucks or modified 4WDs may incur a higher fee due to more complex checks. At 4WD Obsession Noosa, we provide transparent pricing and no hidden extras—just honest, reliable inspections.

In Queensland, you can verify the status of a roadworthy certificate via the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) website. You’ll need the certificate number and vehicle details. This is especially useful if you’re buying a used vehicle and want to confirm that the certificate is genuine and still valid.

A roadworthy certificate (or safety certificate) is an official document issued by a licensed inspection station that confirms your vehicle meets the minimum safety standards required to drive on public roads. It’s mandatory when selling, transferring ownership, or re-registering a vehicle in Queensland. The certificate covers key safety components such as tyres, brakes, lights, steering, and windows.

No—if the car is registered, a valid roadworthy certificate is legally required to sell it in Queensland. The only exception is if you’re selling an unregistered vehicle or trading it in with a dealer (who may handle the inspection themselves). Private sellers must provide the buyer with the certificate before finalising the sale.

You can get a roadworthy certificate by booking an inspection at a Queensland-licensed approved inspection station, like 4WD Obsession Noosa. During the inspection, we assess your vehicle’s key safety systems. If everything is in good condition, we issue your certificate on the spot. If repairs are required, we’ll let you know exactly what needs fixing—no guesswork involved.

In Queensland, yes. “Safety certificate” is used interchangeably with “roadworthy certificate”. Both refer to the same legal document that certifies a vehicle’s safety for road use. However, different states use different terminology, such as pink slip, eSafety check and RWC, so it’s worth double-checking the local requirements if you're coming from interstate.

Not in Queensland. A pink slip is the term used in New South Wales for that state’s version of a roadworthiness check. In Queensland, the equivalent is called a safety certificate or roadworthy certificate. While they serve the same purpose, the names and processes differ depending on the state or territory.

If you're in the Sunshine Coast area, 4WD Obsession Noosa is your local licensed approved inspection station. We carry out roadworthy inspections for cars, 4WDs, and commercial vehicles. Book with us for fast, professional service close to home.

No. A roadworthy certificate can only be used for one transaction, such as a sale or registration. If the vehicle changes hands again, or if the registration process is delayed past the certificate’s expiry, you’ll need to obtain a new one.

Yes, especially if your car is being re-registered after cancellation, brought in from interstate, or hasn't been on the road for a while. A safety inspection ensures that your vehicle meets current road safety standards and is fit for legal use in Queensland.

Not necessarily. If your car is already registered and in use, you don’t need to hold a current roadworthy certificate. However, if you plan to sell, transfer ownership, or register the vehicle, you’ll be required to present a valid certificate before proceeding.

Your car will need a safety inspection when you’re selling, transferring ownership, re-registering, or clearing a defect notice. Regular inspections are also a smart way to keep your car safe to drive on the road, even if they aren’t legally required.

Most safety inspections take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your vehicle’s type and condition. We aim to complete inspections as efficiently as possible without cutting corners, so you can confidently get back on the road.

A standard inspection includes brakes, tyres, suspension, steering, lights, seatbelts, windscreen, rust and structural integrity checks. These components are critical to your safety and must meet Queensland’s roadworthiness standards before a certificate can be issued.

In addition to the key systems mentioned above, we also inspect the vehicle’s body for rust or damage, ensure that lights and indicators function correctly, and check that mirrors, horns, and windscreens meet safety criteria.

If you’re in Noosa or the Sunshine Coast, head to 4WD Obsession Noosa for a quick and certified safety inspection. We’re a trusted local approved provider of roadworthy certificates and can assist with cars, 4WDs, and light trucks.

Yes—selling a registered vehicle in Queensland requires a valid roadworthy (safety) certificate. Without it, the sale cannot be completed legally, and fines may apply.