Can You Sell a Car Without a Roadworthy in Victoria?

If you’re planning to sell your car in Victoria, you may be wondering whether a roadworthy certificate (RWC) is necessary. In Victoria, a roadworthy certificate is required for private sales of registered vehicles. However, you can sell a car without an RWC if you’re selling it to a licensed motor dealer or selling it unregistered.

If you want to sell your car without a roadworthy certificate, consider the following options:

• Sell Your Car Unregistered

  If you don’t want to obtain an RWC, you can sell the car unregistered. This means the buyer will be responsible for obtaining a roadworthy certificate and re-registering the vehicle. To do this properly:

  • Cancel the registration with VicRoads.
  • Remove and return the number plates to VicRoads.
  • Provide a written agreement stating that the car is being sold unregistered.

•  Sell to a Licensed Car Dealer or Wrecker

  Licensed car dealers and wreckers can buy vehicles without a roadworthy certificate. This is a quick and convenient way to sell your car, especially if it’s old or not in great condition.

• Sell It for Parts

  If your car is no longer roadworthy and you don’t want to go through the process of obtaining an RWC, selling it for parts might be a viable option. Many scrap yards and car dismantlers buy vehicles purely for their usable components.

Selling a car without a roadworthy certificate has some ups and downs. Here’s what you need to know:

• Pros:

  • Faster Sale

    Selling a car as-is can be quicker, especially to dealers or wreckers.

  • No Inspection Costs

    You avoid the cost of getting a roadworthy inspection and fixing potential issues.

  • Less Hassle

    You don’t need to arrange repairs or deal with RWC paperwork.

• Cons:

  • Lower Selling Price

    Buyers may negotiate a lower price since they have to obtain an RWC themselves.

  • Limited Buyer Pool

    Private buyers might be hesitant to purchase an unregistered vehicle without an RWC.

  • Potential Legal Issues

    If a buyer fails to re-register the car, you could still be liable for fines or penalties linked to the vehicle.

If you decide to sell your car without a roadworthy certificate, follow these tips to ensure a smooth process:

• Be Transparent

  Clearly inform potential buyers that the car is being sold without an RWC.

• Cancel the Registration

  If selling unregistered, cancel the registration with your local transport authority to avoid any future liabilities.

• Use a Proper Sales Contract

  Always draft a written agreement stating the car is being sold without a roadworthy certificate and that the buyer is responsible for obtaining one.

• Remove the Number Plates

  If the car is unregistered, remove the plates and return them to your state’s transport department.

https://www.officeofroadsafety.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/infra6351-rules-for-vehicle-standards-in-australia-acc.pdf