How to Sell a Car Without Roadworthy Certificate in Australia (2025 Legal Guide)

Can you sell a car without a roadworthy certificate in Australia? Yes. Here’s how to do it legally, especially in VIC, QLD, and NSW.

In Australia, a roadworthy certificate is typically required when transferring ownership of a registered vehicle—but what if you want to sell a car without roadworthy certificate? Whether your car failed inspection, is no longer worth repairing, or you simply want to avoid the time and cost of obtaining a certificate, you’re not alone. Many sellers ask, “Can I sell my car without a roadworthy certificate?” and the answer is yes—under the right circumstances.

Each state has different rules, but there are legal ways to sell a car without RWC, especially if it’s unregistered, being sold for parts, or going directly to a wrecker. In places like Victoria, VicRoads allows certain private sales without requiring a roadworthy certificate, depending on the vehicle’s registration status and the type of transaction.

Understanding when a certificate is required—and when it’s not—can save you stress, money, and potential fines. This guide will walk you through the exact situations where you can sell a car without roadworthy certificate, the paperwork you still need, and how to avoid the most common legal pitfalls.

If you’re ready to list your car now, whether it’s unregistered, damaged, or sold as-is, you can get started through our Sell Your Car Fast page—built to make the process easy and compliant.

Summary of Legal Options to Sell Without RWC

There are several legal ways to sell a car without roadworthy certificate in Australia, including private sales of unregistered vehicles, sales to wreckers, or trade-ins with licensed dealers. Knowing your options helps you avoid unnecessary inspection costs and speeds up the sale. If you’re unsure whether you need an RWC in your state, always check your local transport authority’s website before proceeding.

Let’s explore what the law says, and how you can complete your sale safely and legally.

Do You Need a Roadworthy Certificate to Sell a Car?

The requirement for a roadworthy certificate when selling a car depends entirely on your location, the status of the vehicle, and the type of sale. In Australia, every state and territory has its own rules—but in most cases, it’s legal to sell a car without roadworthy certificate under certain conditions.

When Is a Roadworthy Certificate Required?

In general, a roadworthy certificate is only mandatory when:

• The vehicle is currently registered, and
• You are selling it to a private buyer who intends to transfer that registration

If you’re selling a registered vehicle in Victoria, for example, and the buyer plans to drive it on the road immediately, then yes—you’ll need to provide a valid roadworthy certificate. This is also the case in Queensland and New South Wales.

However, if you’re selling the vehicle unregistered, or the buyer is planning to register it themselves after repair or inspection, then you’re allowed to sell a car without roadworthy certificate.

Selling a Car in Victoria Without RWC (VicRoads Rules)

In Victoria, VicRoads allows private sellers to:

• Sell registered vehicles without RWC if the buyer is a licensed motor car trader
• Sell unregistered vehicles without a certificate (the buyer must register it later)
• Sell to a wrecker, dismantler, or for parts, where registration transfer isn’t required

You can review VicRoads’ official explanation here:
https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/registration/buy-sell-or-transfer-a-vehicle/selling-a-vehicle

This makes it completely legal to sell a car without RWC in Victoria, as long as it meets the above conditions.

When You Can Sell Without RWC

Many car owners assume that a roadworthy certificate is always required—but that’s not true. There are several perfectly legal situations where you can sell a car without roadworthy certificate in Australia. Knowing these scenarios can save you time and money.

1. When the Vehicle Is Unregistered

If the car’s registration has expired or been cancelled, you are not required to provide a roadworthy certificate. You can simply sell the car as unregistered, and the buyer will handle any inspections if they choose to register it later.

This is one of the most common reasons people sell a car without RWC, and it’s completely legal across all states.

For a complete step-by-step process, check out our article on how to sell an unregistered car in Australia.

2. When Selling to a Wrecker, Dismantler, or Scrap Buyer

Wreckers and scrap yards do not require a roadworthy certificate to purchase a vehicle. They’re buying it for parts, metal value, or recycling—not for road use.

In these cases, you can sell a car without a roadworthy certificate in Victoria, NSW, or any other state without legal risk, as long as ownership is transferred correctly.

3. When the Buyer Is a Licensed Motor Car Trader

Licensed dealers and motor car traders in most states are exempt from receiving a roadworthy certificate from the seller. They usually handle repairs, inspections, and re-registration themselves.

If you’re looking for a fast sale and want to avoid the inspection process, this is one of the safest ways to sell a car without roadworthy certificate.

4. When the Car Is Being Sold Interstate

If the buyer is from another state, they may prefer to register the car in their own jurisdiction. In this case, they are responsible for getting the roadworthy certificate after the sale, not you.

You must still provide accurate information about the condition, but the inspection requirement is shifted to the buyer.

5. When the Vehicle Is Being Sold for Parts or “As-Is”

If you’re parting out the car or listing it “for spares or repairs,” no roadworthy is needed. Just make sure to clearly state in writing that the car is:

• Not roadworthy
• Unregistered (if applicable)
• Sold as-is, with no guarantee

This reduces liability and ensures the buyer understands the vehicle’s status.

Legal Risks of Selling a Car Without Roadworthy

While it’s legal to sell a car without roadworthy certificate in many situations, you still need to follow the proper process to avoid legal issues after the sale. Failing to do so can result in fines, disputes, or being held responsible for the buyer’s use of the vehicle.

1. Liability if the Vehicle Remains in Your Name

One of the biggest risks is failing to notify your state’s transport authority that the vehicle has been sold. If the buyer doesn’t transfer ownership and the car is still in your name, you could receive:

• Toll notices
• Parking or speeding fines
• Liability for accidents involving the vehicle

This is especially common when people sell a car without RWC in Victoria and don’t submit the VicRoads Notice of Disposal.

Always lodge the correct form immediately after the sale.

2. Disputes from Buyers Who Expect a Roadworthy

Some buyers may assume the car is registered or roadworthy unless clearly told otherwise. If you don’t document the vehicle’s condition, the buyer may try to reverse the sale, demand repairs, or report you to a consumer protection agency.

To avoid this, use a signed “as-is” agreement when you sell, and state clearly that:

• The car is not roadworthy
• It is sold without inspection
• The buyer accepts the condition

You can see an example process in our private car selling guide.

3. Misleading or Incomplete Listings

If you’re selling online and the listing does not mention that the car is unregistered or lacks a roadworthy certificate, that can be viewed as misleading advertising.

Be transparent in your ad:

“Car is being sold without RWC. Unregistered. Buyer to organise inspection if required.”

This reduces the risk of disputes and keeps the sale compliant with your state’s laws.

Steps to Sell a Car Without RWC

If you’re ready to move forward, here are the exact steps you should follow to sell a car without roadworthy certificate legally in Australia. Whether you’re dealing with an unregistered vehicle, a damaged one, or simply don’t want to pay for an inspection, these actions will keep your sale compliant.

Step 1: Confirm Legal Ownership

Before listing the car, ensure the vehicle is registered in your name (even if expired). You’ll need:

• The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
• Your driver’s licence or ID
• Any available rego papers, even if outdated

Without clear ownership, the sale becomes risky for both parties.

Step 2: Disclose the RWC Status Clearly

In your ad or offer, state clearly that the car is being sold without a roadworthy certificate, and whether it’s registered or not. For example:

“Selling as-is. No RWC provided. Buyer responsible for inspection if they wish to register.”

This is crucial when listing privately or online. For guidance on listing formats and avoiding miscommunication, refer to our safe online selling guide.

Step 3: Prepare a Written Sale Agreement

Use a simple bill of sale that includes:

• Full name and contact details of both parties
• Vehicle details: make, model, VIN, engine number
• Statement: “Sold as-is, no RWC provided”
• Final price and date of sale
• Signatures from buyer and seller

This protects you if the buyer later claims that the car was supposed to be roadworthy.

Step 4: Lodge a Notice of Disposal

After the sale, notify your state authority that the car has been sold:

• In VIC: submit a Notice of Disposal via VicRoads
• In NSW: notify through Service NSW
• In QLD: use the Transport and Main Roads (TMR) portal

This ensures the car is no longer in your name, avoiding fines or legal trouble.

Step 5: Remove Number Plates (if required)

If the vehicle is unregistered, remove the plates before the buyer takes it. In some states, plates must be returned to the authority or kept if transferring between private parties.

Always check local requirements before handing over the vehicle.

Completing these steps ensures you’ve followed the law and protected yourself. Even if you sell a car without RWC, you can do so confidently and legally by handling the paperwork correctly.

Selling a Car Without RWC in Victoria (VicRoads Rules)

If you’re located in Victoria, it’s important to understand how VicRoads handles private vehicle sales without a roadworthy certificate. Many sellers ask: “Can I sell my car without a roadworthy certificate in Victoria?” The answer is yes — but only in certain situations.

Here’s what VicRoads says about when you can sell a car without RWC in Victoria, and what your responsibilities are.

When You Need a Roadworthy in VIC

According to VicRoads:

• If your car is registered and you’re selling it to a private buyer in VIC, you must provide a current roadworthy certificate.
• The RWC must be issued within 30 days of the sale.
• Without it, the buyer cannot legally transfer the registration into their name.

In this case, the roadworthy is mandatory, and failure to provide one could invalidate the sale or delay the transfer.

When You Can Sell Without RWC in VIC

You are legally allowed to sell a car without roadworthy certificate in Victoria if:

• The vehicle is unregistered
• You’re selling it to a licensed motor car trader (LMCT)
• You’re selling it for parts or scrap
• You’re transferring ownership as a gift within a family
• The buyer intends to register it interstate

In all these cases, no RWC is required, and VicRoads does not enforce it.

You can visit here to find VicRoads’ RWC official information.

VicRoads Selling Without RWC — Summary

If you’re selling an unregistered or written-off car in Victoria, you may also want to review our guide on how to sell a damaged car in Australia for more options.

Selling to Wreckers or Cash-for-Cars Services

One of the most common—and simplest—ways to sell a car without roadworthy certificate is through wreckers or cash-for-cars services. These businesses specialize in buying vehicles in any condition, including unregistered, non-running, or written-off cars, and they don’t require roadworthy inspections.

Why Wreckers Don’t Need a Roadworthy Certificate

Wreckers and dismantlers do not intend to register or drive the vehicle—they buy it for parts, scrap metal, or recycling. Since the car is being taken off the road, no RWC is needed.

This means you can sell a car without RWC in Victoria, NSW, QLD, and other states without any legal barrier, as long as you provide proof of ownership and complete the sale correctly.

Pros of Selling to Wreckers

• No need for repairs or cleaning
• No inspection or roadworthy required
• Fast cash offers and same-day pickup
• Most include free towing
• Minimal paperwork

If your vehicle is not worth fixing or is unregistered, this can be the fastest legal option to sell a car without roadworthy certificate.

What Paperwork Do Wreckers Expect?

You still need to:

• Provide ID (e.g. driver’s licence)
• Supply the VIN and engine number
• Sign a sale agreement or handover receipt
• Cancel the registration if still active
• Lodge a disposal notice (e.g. via VicRoads)

These steps apply whether the car is running or completely unroadworthy.

Where to Find Trusted Wreckers

Search for local auto recyclers or use platforms like Aus Carsales that connect you with verified cash-for-cars buyers. For damaged or unregistered cars, wreckers are often the easiest way to get paid legally—without needing a roadworthy certificate.

If you’re looking to sell a car without roadworthy certificate online, make sure to list it on platforms that accept unregistered or non-roadworthy vehicles. Aus Carsales , Gumtree, and dedicated scrap car buyers allow you to post clear, “as-is” listings and reach interested buyers. Be sure to state upfront that no RWC is provided.

Private Sales Without Roadworthy – Is It Safe?

Selling privately is often the best way to get top dollar for your car—but what if you want to sell a car without roadworthy certificate to a private buyer? The short answer: yes, it’s legal in some cases, but only when handled carefully.

When It’s Legal to Sell Privately Without RWC

You can sell privately without a roadworthy certificate if:

• The car is unregistered
• The buyer is interstate
• The vehicle is being sold for parts
• You clearly disclose the condition and status

In Victoria, for example, if your car is registered and you’re selling it privately, then a valid roadworthy certificate is required by law. But if the car is unregistered or going to a dealer or dismantler, you can sell without RWC.

How to Protect Yourself in a Private Sale

If you choose this path, follow these guidelines:

• Write “sold as-is, no RWC provided” in all listings and documents
• Use a detailed bill of sale including buyer/seller info, VIN, engine number, and final price
• Require photo ID from the buyer
• Lodge a disposal notice with your state authority immediately after sale

For more tips, see our guide on how to sell a car privately in Australia.

What to Say in the Ad

Here’s an example of a clear and honest listing description:

“Selling 2008 Toyota Corolla. Unregistered, no RWC supplied. Buyer must arrange inspection if planning to register. Good for parts, or repair and re-register.”

This protects you from legal issues and sets the right expectations. Many buyers are mechanics or DIYers looking for budget cars—they don’t expect perfection, but they do expect transparency.

Documents You Still Need to Sell a Car Without RWC

Even though a roadworthy certificate isn’t always required, there are still essential documents you must prepare if you want to sell a car without roadworthy certificate legally and safely.

Whether you’re selling to a private buyer, dealer, or wrecker, proper documentation protects both parties and ensures the transfer is recognized by your state transport authority.

1. Bill of Sale

This is a must-have in any private sale. It should include:

• Full name and address of buyer and seller
• Vehicle details (make, model, year, VIN, engine number)
• Date of sale and price
• Clear note stating: “Vehicle sold as-is without roadworthy certificate”
• Signatures from both parties

If you’re unsure how to draft one, you can adapt examples available from your state transport authority or create your own using these elements.

2. Proof of Ownership

Before you sell a car without RWC, make sure you can verify you own it. Suitable proof includes:

• Registration papers (even if expired)
• Past renewal notices
• A statutory declaration (if paperwork is missing)
• Purchase receipt from when you acquired the car

This prevents disputes and helps the buyer re-register it if they choose to.

3. Photo ID

Both you and the buyer should exchange copies of photo ID, such as a driver’s licence. This helps with paperwork, protects against fraud, and is often required by your state transport department.

4. VIN and Engine Number

These should be clearly listed on the bill of sale and match the physical identifiers on the car. If there’s any mismatch, it can delay or prevent the buyer from registering the car later—even if they knew you were going to sell the car without a roadworthy certificate.

5. Disposal or Transfer Notification

Every state requires you to notify them once the vehicle has been sold. This applies whether the vehicle is registered or not. If you’re in Victoria, you can do this online via the VicRoads Notice of Disposal portal.

Without this step, your name remains legally tied to the car—and any future issues.

Coming prepared with the right paperwork is the key to a smooth, legal sale—especially when you sell a car without roadworthy certificate and need extra clarity in the process.

Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a Car Without RWC

Even though it’s legal to sell a car without roadworthy certificate in many cases, sellers often make avoidable mistakes that lead to fines, disputes, or legal issues. Here’s what not to do if you want a smooth and compliant sale.

1. Failing to Disclose the Vehicle Has No RWC

This is one of the most common and serious errors. If you list your car without stating clearly that no roadworthy certificate is included, buyers may assume it’s ready for transfer or road use.

This can lead to:

• Refund demands
• Consumer complaints
• Breach of sale disputes

Always state in your listing and in writing: “Vehicle sold without roadworthy certificate” or “No RWC provided – sold as-is.”

2. Not Lodging a Notice of Disposal

Whether your car is registered or not, failing to inform your transport authority that you sold it is risky. You could remain liable for:

• Toll fines
• Speeding or parking offences
• Rego renewals
• Accidents involving the vehicle

This is especially important if you sell a car without RWC in Victoria, where VicRoads expects a Notice of Disposal immediately after the transaction.

3. Leaving Plates on an Unregistered Vehicle

If your vehicle is unregistered, most states require you to remove and return the plates. Leaving them on could cause confusion or result in misuse by the buyer. In some states, this is also a legal violation.

Before you sell a car without roadworthy certificate, double-check plate handling rules with your local transport authority.

4. Accepting Partial Payment or Unverified Transfers

Never hand over keys or paperwork until:

• You’ve received the full agreed payment, and
• You’ve confirmed it has cleared in your bank account (if electronic)

This is especially important in private sales where there’s no dealer protection. If you’re unsure about safe practices, our guide on how to sell your car online safely includes tips on spotting scams and securing payment.

5. Not Documenting the Sale in Writing

Verbal agreements are unreliable. Without a signed bill of sale, you’re leaving yourself open to risk—even when selling to wreckers or traders.

If you plan to sell a car without RWC, clear documentation protects you and allows the buyer to register or transport the car legally in the future.

Can You Sell a Car Without Rego and RWC?

Yes — you can legally sell a car without roadworthy certificate and registration in Australia, but only under specific conditions. Many sellers assume both are required to sell a car, but that’s not true. In fact, some buyers prefer unregistered vehicles to restore or dismantle.

When Both Rego and Roadworthy Aren’t Required

You don’t need either if:

• The vehicle is sold as unregistered
• It is being sold to a wrecker, dismantler, or car yard
• The buyer is a licensed motor trader
• The vehicle is sold for parts or non-road use
• The buyer plans to register it interstate

In these cases, you’re allowed to sell a car without roadworthy certificate and without active registration, as long as you provide:

• A proper bill of sale
• Proof of ownership
• A VIN and engine number

Do You Need to Get It Roadworthy Before Selling?

Only if:

• The vehicle is still registered, and
• You’re selling to a private buyer within your state (e.g. VIC or QLD)

If you’re considering fixing the car to get a higher price, you might wonder how to get it roadworthy.

How to Get a Roadworthy Certificate (If You Decide To)

If you’re thinking of providing an RWC to make the car more appealing, here’s what you need to know:

How to Get a Roadworthy Certificate in Australia

To get a roadworthy certificate:

1. Book an inspection with a licensed tester (mechanic, workshop, or authorised inspection centre)
2. The vehicle must pass basic safety checks:
   • Brakes, tyres, suspension, lights
   • Windscreen, wipers, seats and seatbelts
   • Steering and body condition
3. If the car passes, you’ll receive a Certificate of Roadworthiness.

Common Search Queries Answered:

• How do I get a roadworthy certificate?
  → Contact a certified inspection centre in your state. In VIC, search “VicRoads licensed vehicle tester.”
• How to obtain a roadworthy certificate?
  → You need to pass inspection first; it can’t be bought without testing.
• How much is it to get a roadworthy certificate?
  → Usually between $150–$250, depending on state and vehicle condition.
• How long does a roadworthy test take?
  → Most inspections take 30 minutes to 1 hour, but repairs may extend that.
• How to get your car roadworthy?
  → Fix any defects before the inspection. Common failures include tyre tread, lights, and suspension issues.
• How to get roadworthy licence?
  → If you’re a mechanic wanting to issue RWCs, you’ll need to apply through your state regulator (e.g. VicRoads).

Should You Bother Getting One?

If the vehicle is low-value, damaged, or you need a quick sale, it’s often better to sell a car without roadworthy certificate and let the buyer handle it.

But if the car is clean, safe, and close to passing inspection, spending a couple hundred dollars on a certificate could help you get a better sale price.

Trade In a Car Without Roadworthy – What to Expect

Many car owners wonder, “Can I trade in my car without a roadworthy certificate?” The answer is yes — in most cases, you can. Trading in is often one of the simplest ways to sell a car without roadworthy certificate, especially if you don’t want to deal with private buyers or inspections.

Do Dealerships Require a Roadworthy?

No. Licensed dealerships and motor car traders do not require an RWC from you when accepting a trade-in. They will:

• Perform their own safety checks
• Repair or inspect the car themselves
• Handle the paperwork internally

This makes trade-ins one of the few ways to sell a car without a roadworthy certificate and still avoid legal risk or negotiation stress.

Will I Get Less Money Without RWC?

Yes, but it may still be worth it. Dealerships will deduct:

• Cost of RWC and repairs
• Re-registration expenses
• Any towing or logistics

However, the trade-off is convenience. If your car is unroadworthy or recently deregistered, the dealer might still offer you a reasonable price — especially if you’re buying another vehicle from them.

What You’ll Need for a Trade-In Without RWC

Even without a certificate, you should provide:

• Photo ID
• VIN and engine number
• Proof of ownership (old rego papers, receipts, etc.)
• Signed handover or trade-in agreement

If your car is unregistered, remove the plates before dropping it off, or inform the dealer if they’ll handle that for you.

Tip

While private sales may earn you more, trading in is the fastest way to sell a car without roadworthy certificate if convenience matters most. Be upfront about the car’s condition, and let the dealer assess it from there.

How long after rego expires do you need a roadworthy?

In most Australian states, if your car registration has expired for more than 3 months, it is considered unregistered, and you will need to obtain a roadworthy certificate (or equivalent inspection) before you can re-register the vehicle.

For example, in Victoria, once registration has lapsed for over 3 months, the vehicle is removed from the registration system, and you must apply for a new registration, which includes:

• A Certificate of Roadworthiness
• A Vehicle Identity Check (if required)
• Proof of ownership (e.g., purchase receipt or previous rego papers)

However, if your goal is not to re-register the vehicle, but instead to sell a car without roadworthy certificate, you can do so legally as long as:

• The vehicle is clearly sold as unregistered
• The buyer is aware and agrees to take responsibility for registration and roadworthiness
• You provide the correct documentation and notify your state transport authority

So, to summarize: you only need a roadworthy if you’re re-registering the vehicle, not if you’re planning to sell the car without a roadworthy certificate.

What happens if your car is unroadworthy?

If your car is deemed unroadworthy, it legally cannot be driven on public roads in Australia. An unroadworthy vehicle may:

• Fail safety inspections
• Be issued with a defect notice by police or road authorities
• Become ineligible for registration renewal
• Lead to fines if driven or parked in a public place

You may also be denied insurance coverage if you’re involved in an accident with an unroadworthy vehicle.

However, being unroadworthy doesn’t stop you from selling the car. Many sellers choose to sell a car without roadworthy certificate to avoid costly repairs or inspection failures. You can legally sell an unroadworthy car as long as you:

• Disclose its condition in writing
• Provide a bill of sale
• Remove or cancel the registration (if still active)
• Complete a Notice of Disposal with your state transport authority

Buyers will typically arrange their own repairs and inspection before attempting re-registration.

What can fail a pink slip?

A pink slip (also known as an eSafety check) is required for vehicle registration renewals in New South Wales (NSW). Common reasons a car might fail this inspection include:

• Worn or bald tyres
• Faulty headlights, brake lights, or indicators
• Leaking fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid)
• Damaged or cracked windscreen
• Worn-out brakes or suspension components
• Rust, particularly near structural points
• Broken seatbelts or inoperative safety systems
• Exhaust leaks or excessive noise

If your vehicle fails the pink slip, you’ll be given a Repairs Needed Report and must fix the defects before the vehicle can pass. However, if the cost of repairs is too high or you’re not planning to keep the vehicle, you can choose to sell a car without roadworthy certificate instead.

Many car owners decide to skip repairs and inspection altogether and legally sell a car without roadworthy certificate by listing it as unregistered or selling directly to a wrecker or trader.

Frequently Asked Questions About Selling a Car Without Roadworthy Certificate

These are the most common questions Australians ask when trying to sell a car without roadworthy certificate, especially in Victoria, Queensland, and New South Wales.

Conclusion: Sell a Car Without Roadworthy Certificate – Legally and Safely

While it’s legal in many cases to sell a car without roadworthy certificate, it may not always be ideal. If the car is in excellent mechanical condition, investing in a certificate could increase its value. However, if you’re short on time or dealing with a vehicle that needs work, skipping the inspection is both legal and practical—just be transparent with your buyer.

You don’t need to stress if your car failed inspection, is unregistered, or just not worth fixing. You can still sell a car without roadworthy certificate legally in Australia—if you understand the rules and take the right steps.

From selling to wreckers or licensed dealers, to parting it out or listing it online with proper documentation, this guide has shown that a roadworthy certificate isn’t always required. In fact, for unregistered or damaged cars, selling without RWC is often the most practical and cost-effective option.

Just remember:

• Always disclose the lack of RWC in writing
• Prepare a proper bill of sale and verify ownership
• Notify your state authority with a disposal form
• Avoid common mistakes like leaving plates on or handing over the vehicle before payment

If you’re ready to take action, create your free listing now through AusCarSales. Our platform makes it easy to connect with real buyers—even for cars without registration or roadworthiness.

Start selling your car here – fast, legal, and stress-free