Roadworthy Certificates in Cairns

Important: The roadworthy inspection fee is payable whether the vehicle passes or not. If repairs are needed, these will be quoted separately before any work is carried out.

Our licensed mechanics follow a thorough checklist, ensuring that every critical safety feature is in top condition. During your inspection, we’ll assess:

• Brakes and Tyres: Confirming optimal stopping power and road grip.
• Steering and Suspension: Guaranteeing a smooth and stable driving experience.
• Lights and Windscreen: Ensuring clear visibility and fully functional lights.
• Body Condition: Checking for rust or structural issues that could impact safety.

By the end of the inspection, you’ll have confidence that your vehicle meets Queensland’s safety standards. If any repairs are needed, we’ll clearly explain what’s required.

Learn more about how we can help with your roadworthy certificate here.

Need a roadworthy for your motorcycle? Please visit this page.

Getting a safety certificate because you are selling? If you would rather skip the private sale altogether, we also buy vehicles outright, so you can sell it to us directly.

What a safety certificate costs in Queensland

Inspection fees are set by the Queensland Government, not by the workshop, so the price is the same at every approved inspection station in the state. As at 1 July 2026 the fees are:

• Light vehicle up to 4.5t – $102.70
• Motorcycle – $66.00

These fees are indexed and increase on 1 July each year. Any repairs needed to pass are separate, and we quote those before doing the work.

How long a safety certificate lasts

For a private sale, a safety certificate is valid for 2 months or 2,000km, whichever comes first. Licensed dealers work to 3 months or 1,000km. If it expires before the sale completes, the vehicle needs a fresh inspection.

What the inspection actually checks

A safety certificate assesses whether a vehicle is safe for public roads. It is not a full mechanical inspection, and it is not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection if you are buying. It covers safety-critical items: brakes, tyres and wheels, steering and suspension, lights and indicators, windscreen and wipers, seatbelts, body and chassis condition, and exhaust.

What happens if your vehicle fails

Failing is common, particularly on older vehicles, and it is usually small items rather than anything serious. You get a written list of what did not pass. Once the repairs are done the vehicle is re-inspected, and because we are a full workshop we can carry out those repairs on site rather than sending you elsewhere and back again.

Selling a vehicle without a safety certificate

In most cases a safety certificate is required before a private sale or a registration transfer in Queensland. If the vehicle is unregistered, or the cost of getting it through inspection is more than the car is worth, selling as-is may make more sense. We also buy vehicles outright, including cars that would not pass.

When you choose Cairns Auto Works, you’re choosing experienced professionals who prioritise your time and safety. Here’s what makes us different:

• Certified Inspectors: Our team includes licensed experts in vehicle safety.
• Clear, Transparent Process: We never suggest unnecessary repairs; our focus is on certifying your car if it meets the standards.
• Quick Turnaround: Most inspections are completed within an hour, so you can get back on the road quickly.

Ready to book your inspection? Contact Cairns Auto Works for a fast, hassle-free roadworthy certificate in Cairns. Schedule online or give us a call, and we’ll handle the rest!