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Vehicles exempt from roadworthy certificate

Most vehicles need a roadworthy certificate when selling or re-registering – but there are some exceptions.

For most vehicles you need a roadworthy certificate when selling, re-registering or clearing defect notices. 

The vehicles below do not need a roadworthy certificate.

Brand new vehicles

Vehicles that are brand new and have never been registered in Victoria or any other state or country, do not need a roadworthy certificate.

If your new vehicle is going to be used as a taxi, then you will need to get a roadworthy certificate.

Trailers

You won’t need a roadworthy certificate for:

  • a brand-new heavy trailer (with an aggregate trailer mass greater than 4.5 tonnes)
  • a light trailer (with an aggregate trailer mass of 4.5 tonnes or less).

Motorcycles and quad bikes

You won’t need a roadworthy certificate for:

  • a recreational motorcycle

  • a quad bike or ATV (special work vehicle type 1 or 2). 

Specially constructed vehicles

Vehicles not designed primarily for carrying passengers or goods don't need a roadworthy certificate.

This includes vehicles like:

  • bulldozers
  • diggers
  • forklifts
  • golf carts
  • tractors.

Your specially constructed vehicle will need a roadworthy certificate if it’s fitted on a truck cab and chassis.