Roadworthy · Rego inspection
Roadworthy certificates in Australian Capital Territory
In ACT the inspection is the Roadworthy inspection (Certificate of Inspection). Here is when a buyer or seller needs one, how long it lasts and who can carry it out.
At a glance
- Official nameRoadworthy inspection (Certificate of Inspection)
- Needed to sell?Yes, in most cases. A vehicle 6 years or older (or imported) needs a roadworthy inspection before the buyer can transfer registration. A Certificate of Inspection is valid for one month from the inspection date.
- Valid forA Certificate of Inspection is valid for one month from the inspection date.
- Who inspectsAccess Canberra inspection stations and authorised examiners
- AuthorityAccess Canberra
Registration renewal
Your renewal notice tells you if the vehicle needs an inspection before renewal.
An inspection is not a history check
A roadworthy or safety inspection covers the car's condition on the day. It does not show finance owing, or whether the car has been reported stolen or written off. For that, run a PPSR check before you pay.
Rules change. This guide was last checked against Access Canberra on 22 September 2026; confirm with them before you buy or sell.
ACT roadworthy FAQs
Do I need a roadworthy to sell a car in Australian Capital Territory?
Yes, in most cases. A vehicle 6 years or older (or imported) needs a roadworthy inspection before the buyer can transfer registration. A Certificate of Inspection is valid for one month from the inspection date.
What is a roadworthy called in ACT?
The official name is Roadworthy inspection (Certificate of Inspection). You will also hear: Roadworthy, Rego inspection.
Do I need an inspection to renew my rego in ACT?
Your renewal notice tells you if the vehicle needs an inspection before renewal.
How long is a ACT inspection valid?
A Certificate of Inspection is valid for one month from the inspection date.
Who can carry out the inspection in ACT?
Access Canberra inspection stations and authorised examiners.
Does a roadworthy show if a car has finance owing or was written off?
No. An inspection checks the car’s safety on the day it is inspected. Finance owing, stolen and written-off records come from a PPSR check, which is a separate search.
Other states and territories
- New South Wales — Safety inspection report (pink slip)
- Victoria — Certificate of Roadworthiness (RWC)
- Queensland — Safety certificate
- Western Australia — Vehicle inspection (Certificate of Inspection)
- South Australia — Roadworthy inspection
- Tasmania — AIS inspection report
- Northern Territory — Roadworthy inspection