When you’re ready to get rid of an old, damaged, or unwanted car, one of the first questions you might have is whether you need a roadworthy certificate to sell a car for scrap. Many car owners aren’t sure what’s legally required, and getting it wrong can lead to unnecessary stress or wasted time. In this blog, we’ll answer your question clearly and explain everything you need to know about roadworthy certificates and scrapping cars.
What Is a Roadworthy Certificate?
A roadworthy certificate (RWC) is an official document that shows a car is safe to drive on public roads. It’s usually required when selling a car to another person, re-registering a car, or registering a car in another state. The inspection checks essential safety parts like the brakes, tyres, steering, lights, and windscreen. If a car passes, the certificate is issued. If not, you’ll need to fix the problems and have it checked again.
Is a Roadworthy Certificate Needed to Scrap a Car?
In most cases, you do not need a roadworthy certificate to sell a car for scrap. Car wreckers and scrap yards don’t require the vehicle to be roadworthy. They’re not going to drive it on the road. They dismantle it for parts or recycle the metal. All they need is proof that you own the car, which means having a valid form of ID and the car’s title or registration documents. This makes it much easier and faster than selling to a private buyer.
Why You Don’t Need a Roadworthy Certificate
A roadworthy certificate confirms that a car is safe to drive. But when you sell a car for scrap, the vehicle isn’t going to be driven—it’s going to be picked up, dismantled, or crushed. That’s why scrap buyers don’t expect the car to meet safety standards. Even if the engine doesn’t start or the tyres are flat, it can still be accepted as scrap. This also saves you money, as roadworthy inspections and necessary repairs can cost hundreds of dollars.
Also visit for scrap car removal: https://www.metalbiz.com.au/scrap-metal/ipswich/
What Do You Need Instead?
Although you don’t need a roadworthy certificate, you will need to prove that you own the car. Most car removal companies will ask for:
- A photo ID (like a driver’s licence)
- The vehicle’s registration papers or title
Some states also require you to complete a notice of disposal or cancel the registration before the car is picked up. Check with your local transport authority for the exact steps in your area.
Exceptions: When Might You Need One?
If you’re selling your car to a private buyer or dealership instead of scrapping it, then yes, you might need a roadworthy certificate. For example, in Queensland, a safety certificate is legally required if you’re selling a registered vehicle. But this only applies to road-legal cars, not cars going to a wrecker or scrap yard. If you’re unsure, contact a local wrecker and ask them directly—they’ll tell you what they need.
How the Scrap Car Process Works
Here’s a simple breakdown of what usually happens when you sell a car for scrap:
- Get a Quote – You call or fill out an online form to get a price for your car.
- Book a Pickup – If you accept the offer, a time is set to collect the car.
- Prepare Documents – Make sure you have ID and the car’s papers ready.
- Car Is Removed – A tow truck arrives, checks the documents, and loads the car.
- Get Paid – You get paid on the spot, usually in cash or bank transfer.
All of this can happen in just a few hours, and there’s usually no paperwork beyond confirming ownership. That’s why this is such a stress-free option for unwanted cars. Discover more
Benefits of Scrapping Without a Roadworthy Certificate
- Faster Sale: No inspection delays or repairs.
- Save Money: No cost for certificate or mechanical fixes.
- Convenient: Wreckers handle all the work, including towing.
- Eco-Friendly: Parts are reused, and metal is recycled properly.
These benefits make scrapping an ideal choice for cars that are too old, too damaged, or too expensive to fix.
Final Tips Before You Sell Your Car For Scrap
- Remove personal belongings from the car.
- Take off the licence plates if required in your state.
- Cancel the registration if needed.
- Get written confirmation of the sale from the scrap company.
These steps ensure everything is wrapped up properly and that there’s no confusion later.
Conclusion
You don’t need a roadworthy certificate to sell your car for scrap. As long as you can prove ownership, most wreckers will take your vehicle, regardless of its condition. This saves you time, money, and hassle. If your car is no longer roadworthy and not worth repairing, scrapping it is a smart and easy solution.
Read more informtive blogs on our website.
