Expert in all services · Private sales & transfers
RWC for Selling a Car in Brisbane
A current safety certificate is required before you can transfer a registered vehicle in Queensland. We come to you, inspect, and lodge it with TMR the same day.
The rule
Why you need an RWC to sell
In Queensland, the seller of a registered light vehicle must hold a current safety certificate before registration can be transferred to the buyer. The certificate number also has to appear in your advertisement, whether that's a marketplace listing or a sign in the window.
The certificate is valid for two months or 2,000km for a private seller — so book it once you're ready to advertise, not months in advance.
MEDAUTO™ handles the whole thing at your address. Inspection, written result, on-the-spot repairs where possible, and same-day electronic lodgement with the Department of Transport and Main Roads so the buyer can transfer immediately.
RWC for transfer QLD
Selling checklist
- Book the safety certificate before advertising
- Display the certificate number in your ad
- Have your registration certificate and ID ready
- Fix any defects and use the free 14-day re-inspection
- Complete the vehicle transfer form with the buyer
- Buyer lodges the transfer within 14 days of sale
- Keep a copy of the certificate for your records
- Remove personalised plates before the sale if retaining them
Edge cases
Unregistered, interstate and dealer sales
Selling an unregistered vehicle? You can sell it as-is provided the buyer is told it's unregistered — but they'll need a safety certificate to register it, and we can inspect it where it stands so it never has to be towed.
Moving a car in from interstate, or re-registering one that's been off the road? Both require a safety certificate too, and the process is identical.
FAQ
Common questions
Do I need an RWC to sell my car in Queensland?
Yes. To transfer a registered light vehicle in QLD the seller must provide a current safety certificate. The only common exemptions are sales between spouses, unregistered vehicles sold as-is with the buyer notified, and some trade or auction scenarios.
How long is the safety certificate valid?
Two months or 2,000km from issue for private sellers, whichever comes first. Licensed dealers get three months or 2,000km. It must still be current on the day of transfer.
When should I book the inspection?
Right before you advertise. A displayed safety certificate number is required in the ad, and buyers move faster on a car that's already certified.
What if the buyer wants their own inspection?
That's fine, and common. The seller's safety certificate is the legal requirement for transfer; a buyer's pre-purchase inspection is a separate, optional check we also offer.
What happens if I sell without one?
Transfer can be refused and penalties apply under the Transport Operations regulations. It also gives the buyer grounds to walk away after agreeing on price.
How much does an RWC for selling a car in Brisbane cost?
Base fees are $102.70 for cars and sedans, $119 for 4WDs, SUVs and utes, and $129 for vans and light trucks, plus a travel fee that depends on your location. Same-day electronic lodgement with TMR is included — get a quote now for your accurate final price.
Do I need an RWC for transfer in QLD if the car is unregistered?
No safety certificate is required to sell an unregistered vehicle as long as the buyer is told it's unregistered — but they'll need one to register it, so most sellers get it done anyway to protect the sale price.
Who pays for the safety certificate, buyer or seller?
The seller. Providing a current safety certificate is the seller's legal obligation for a registered light vehicle transfer in Queensland.
Can you inspect at the buyer's address or a meeting point?
Yes. We're fully mobile, so we can inspect at your home, the buyer's address or wherever the car is parked, as long as there's safe room to jack it.
My certificate expired before the sale — do I need a new one?
Yes. The certificate must be current on the day of transfer, so if the two months or 2,000km has lapsed a fresh inspection is required. We can usually re-issue same day.
More answers, pricing and booking options on our Roadworthy Certificate hub.
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MEDAUTO™ — Mobile Across Brisbane
We come to your home, office or roadside anywhere in Brisbane, Ipswich and Logan.
- 0485 677 439
- medautobrisbane@gmail.com
- Brisbane, Queensland
Testimonials
What Our Customers Say About Us
5.0 on Google · 6 verified reviews