Can you sell a car without a roadworthy in QLD

Are you planning to sell your vehicle in Queensland? If so, you may be curious as to whether you need a roadworthy certificate to do so. A roadworthy certificate is a legal requirement for selling a car in Queensland, but there are certain circumstances where you may be able to sell your car without one.

In this article, we'll discuss the legal requirements for selling a car in QLD and the implications of selling a car without a roadworthy.

What is a Roadworthy Certificate?

A roadworthy certificate is a document that certifies that a vehicle meets a minimum safety standard set by the Queensland government. This certificate is legally required when you want to sell your car or transfer ownership. The certificate is usually issued by a licensed mechanic or an approved inspection station after a thorough vehicle inspection.

Legal Requirements for Selling a Car in Queensland

Obtaining a roadworthy certificate

A current roadworthy certificate is required to sell a vehicle in Queensland, except in certain circumstances. An authorised inspection station issues the safety certificate and verifies that the vehicle meets the minimum safety standards set by the Queensland government.

Transfer of ownership

The transfer of ownership of a vehicle requires the completion of specific paperwork. You should submit a transfer of ownership form to the (DTMR) Department of Transport and Main Roads within 14 days of the sale.

Payment of transfer fees

Along with the transfer of ownership form, you must also pay a transfer fee to the Department of Transport and Main Roads. The cost paid varies depending on the type of vehicle and the transaction type.

Disclosing vehicle history

Sellers must disclose any possible defects or issues with the vehicle to potential buyers. This includes any previous accidents, repairs, or modifications made to the car.

Providing clear title

As the seller, you are liable for providing a clear title to the vehicle. This means there should be no outstanding loans or debts associated with the car, and you should be able to provide proof of ownership.

Risks of Selling a Car Without Roadworthy in QLD

Legal penalties

Selling a car without the necessary roadworthy certificate in Queensland can result in significant legal penalties, including fines ranging from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. This depends on the circumstances.

Unsafe vehicle

If you sell a car without a roadworthy certificate, you may be putting the buyer at risk of driving an unsafe vehicle. This can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. As a seller, you have a duty of care to ensure that the car you're selling is safe and roadworthy.

Reduced sale price

Selling a car without a roadworthy certification can significantly reduce the vehicle's sale price. Buyers may hesitate to purchase a car without a roadworthy certificate, as they will have to pay for any repairs necessary to bring the vehicle up to standard.

Limited buyer pool

Selling a car without a roadworthy certificate can limit the number of potential buyers for the vehicle. Many buyers will only consider cars with a current roadworthy certificate, making it harder to find a buyer.

Potential liability

Suppose the buyer of the vehicle is involved in an accident due to an issue that would have been identified in a roadworthy inspection. In that case, you may be held liable for any damages or injuries that result.

Tips for Selling a Car Without a Roadworthy in QLD

Be honest about the vehicle's condition

If you're selling a car without a roadworthy certificate, it's essential to be upfront and honest about the vehicle's condition. Be transparent about any defects or issues with the car, and provide potential buyers with a detailed vehicle history.

Sell to a licensed dealer

In Queensland, you can sell a vehicle without a roadworthy certificate to a licensed car dealer. This can be a good option if you cannot obtain a roadworthy vehicle certificate.

Offer a discount

If you're selling a car without a roadworthy certificate, consider offering a discount to potential buyers. This can help offset the cost of any repairs the buyer may need to make to the vehicle.

Obtain a pre-sale inspection

While not a substitute for a roadworthy certificate, obtaining a pre-sale inspection can give potential buyers peace of mind about the vehicle's condition. It can also help identify any issues that may have gone unnoticed, allowing you to address them before selling the car.

Provide a written disclaimer

If you're selling a car without a roadworthy certificate, you must protect yourself legally by providing a written disclaimer. This should clearly state that the vehicle is sold without a roadworthy certificate. The buyer will be responsible for obtaining one if they wish to register the car for use on the road.

How to Obtain a Roadworthy Certificate in QLD

Find an authorised inspection station

To obtain a roadworthy certificate in Queensland, you must take the vehicle to an authorised inspection station. The Queensland government authorises these stations to conduct roadworthy inspections and issue certificates.

Schedule an inspection

Once you've found an authorised inspection station, you'll need to schedule an inspection. The inspection will typically take around 30 minutes to complete and will cover a range of safety checks and tests.

Address any issues

If the vehicle fails the roadworthy inspection, you'll need to address any issues before obtaining a certificate. The inspection station will provide you with a list of any problems that need to be fixed, and you'll need to have them repaired before returning the vehicle for a re-inspection.

Obtain the certificate

If the vehicle passes the roadworthy inspection, you'll be issued a certificate. This certificate is valid for two months, during which time you'll need to complete the transfer of ownership and registration of the vehicle.

Renew the certificate

If you don't sell the vehicle within the 2-month validity period of the certificate, you'll need to obtain a new certificate before selling the car. This may require another inspection and any necessary repairs.

Exceptions to Roadworthy Certificate Requirements

While roadworthy certificates are required in most cases for selling a car in Queensland, there are some exceptions to this requirement. Here are some of the exceptions to the roadworthy certificate requirements:

Transferring within the family

A roadworthy certificate is not required if you're transferring vehicle ownership to a family member. This includes transfers between spouses, parents, children, siblings, and grandparents.

Vehicles registered in another state

If the vehicle is registered in another territory, you may be able to sell the car without a Queensland roadworthy certificate. However, it's essential to check the state's requirements where the vehicle is registered, as some may require a roadworthy certificate for registration.

Unregistered vehicles

If you have an unregistered vehicle, you may be able to sell it without a roadworthy certificate. However, you should note that the buyer cannot register the car until they obtain a roadworthy certificate.

Registered written-off vehicles

If the vehicle has previously been written off and is now registered, you may not need a roadworthy certificate. However, it's essential to check with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads.

Collector and vintage vehicles

If the vehicle is a collector or vintage car, it may be exempt from the roadworthy certificate requirement. However, these types of vehicles may have specific needs and limitations.

It's important to note that even if a roadworthy certificate is not required, the vehicle must still be safe to drive and comply with all other Queensland regulations. It's also essential to be honest with potential buyers about the vehicle's condition and any issues.

Sell Your Car with Confidence in Queensland

If you decide to sell your car in Brisbane or any other city in Queensland, it's essential to follow the legal requirements and obtain a roadworthy certificate. This will protect you from legal penalties and ensure the vehicle is safe for the new owner to drive. By following this guideline, you can confidently sell your car and avoid any potential issues.

Remember to be honest about the vehicle's condition and consider obtaining a pre-sale inspection. With the appropriate knowledge and preparation, you can successfully sell your car.