A car needs to have a roadworthy certificate before you can get its registration renewed, and it's important that you know how this is done if you need to renew a registration in the state of Victoria; driving with an expired registration can mean severe penalties, and a car that doesn't pass this inspection won't be eligible for registration renewal. Note a few commonly asked questions about a roadworthy certificate in Victoria so you know what's involved in obtaining this certificate.

What if the vehicle doesn't pass, but you disagree with the certifier?

If your vehicle doesn't pass inspection, but you disagree with the certifier's findings, you can take the vehicle to another inspector. If the second inspector passes your vehicle, this can allow you to renew your registration. You can show that second inspection to the first inspector and ask for a refund of their fees, but note that the state doesn't have any jurisdiction over this type of claim. If you cannot resolve the issue with the first inspector, you would need to get legal advice on how to recoup your costs or what other legal rights you may have in such a case.

What is the cost of the inspection?

The cost of having this inspection done is up to each certified mechanic. This cost often varies according to the age and overall condition of the vehicle; for example, if the tyres are obviously brand new and in good condition, the inspector won't need to test the overall tread depth of each tyre, to see if they're safe, so the inspection may be cheaper for your car than one with worn and older tyres. Because the pricing will be different for each inspector and each vehicle, ask for an estimate when making your appointment so there are no surprises when it comes to this fee.

How often can you have the inspection done if the vehicle doesn't pass?

There is no rule that says you're not allowed to renew your registration if the vehicle fails a certain number of inspections; however, to avoid the risk of having your vehicle fail a second inspection, you might take it to a qualified mechanic who can perform needed repairs properly, rather than trying to do them yourself. It can be worth that investment if it means getting your car roadworthy the first time it fails the inspection, rather than paying for inspection after inspection.