Do you need a safety certificate to sell?
Yes, if the vehicle is registered and you are selling it privately. You can advertise the car without one, but you must have a current certificate before you hand it over and transfer the registration. Selling to a licensed motor dealer is exempt, as are some family and estate transfers.
You also need one to move a vehicle from interstate onto Queensland registration, and to re-register an unregistered vehicle.
Time it right
A certificate is valid for 2 months or 2,000 km from the day it is issued, whichever comes first. Book the inspection once you are close to selling, not when you first list the car, so it does not expire while buyers are still looking. If you keep driving the car while it is for sale, watch the kilometres as well as the date.
One certificate covers one transfer. If a sale falls through after the transfer, or you buy the car back, the next sale needs a new certificate.
Prepare the car before the inspection
The inspection checks tyres, brakes, steering, suspension, body rust or damage, the windscreen and lights. A quick look yourself beforehand avoids an easy fail:
- Every bulb works, including brake lights, indicators and the number plate light.
- Tyres have at least 1.5 mm of tread across the contact area and no sidewall damage.
- The windscreen has no cracks or chips in the driver's line of sight.
- Wipers clear the screen and washers spray.
- No warning lights stay on after starting, particularly brake and airbag lights.
- Seatbelts latch, release and retract properly.
If the car fails
The examiner gives you an inspection report listing each defect. Fix them, then return to the same station within 14 days; the reinspection normally covers the listed items. After 14 days you need a fresh inspection and may pay a new fee.
You can get the repairs done wherever you like. A workshop that both inspects and repairs saves a trip, because it can quote the defects on the spot.
Hand the certificate to the buyer
Certificates are issued on paper or electronically. For an electronic certificate you can give the buyer a digital copy or the certificate number. Keep a copy for your own records along with the transfer paperwork.
What a certificate does not tell a buyer
A safety certificate confirms the car met the safety standards on the day. It is not a full mechanical inspection and says nothing about how long the engine or gearbox will last. Buyers who want that should arrange a pre-purchase inspection.
Quick answers
Can I sell a car without a roadworthy in Queensland?
Only in exempt situations, such as selling to a licensed motor dealer. For a private sale of a registered vehicle, you need a current safety certificate before the transfer.
How much does a safety certificate cost in Queensland?
The Queensland Government lists $102.70 including GST for vehicles up to 4,500 kg GVM, from 1 July 2026. Repairs needed to pass are extra.
Who can issue a safety certificate?
Only an approved examiner at an Approved Inspection Station. The car must be inspected in person.