If you own a car in Victoria and plan to sell, transfer, or renew registration, you’ve probably heard the term “pink slip” before. But what exactly is a pink slip, and when do you need one? Let’s clear up the confusion around this important document.
What Is a Pink Slip?
A pink slip, officially called a Certificate of Roadworthiness (RWC), is a government-issued document that certifies your vehicle meets minimum safety standards to be driven on Victorian roads.
The pink slip is a physical paper issued by a licensed vehicle tester after they inspect your car to ensure key safety components are in good working order. This includes brakes, tyres, lights, steering, suspension, and more.
When Do You Need a Pink Slip?
In Victoria, you need a pink slip in the following situations:
- When you want to renew your vehicle registration for cars older than six years
- When selling a registered vehicle privately to someone else
- When transferring ownership of a vehicle (in many cases)
If you’re trading in your car at a dealership or selling to a licensed motor trader, a pink slip is usually not required.
What Does the Inspection Include?
During the pink slip inspection, the tester checks:
- Brakes and brake lines
- Tyres and wheels
- Steering and suspension
- Lights and indicators
- Seat belts and safety devices
- Exhaust system
- Windscreen and wipers
If your vehicle passes, you get a pink slip valid for 30 days. If it fails, the tester will provide a report listing what needs fixing before you can get the certificate.
How to Get a Pink Slip
You can get your pink slip from any licensed vehicle tester or authorised repairer in Victoria. It’s a good idea to book ahead, especially during busy periods.
The cost typically ranges between $50 and $75, but prices can vary between testing stations.
What If Your Vehicle Fails the Pink Slip Inspection?
Failing the inspection isn’t the end of the road. The tester will tell you what repairs are necessary to bring your car up to standard. Once the repairs are done, you can return for a re-inspection.
If you’re selling a damaged or unroadworthy car privately, you’re not legally required to get a pink slip, but it may affect your sale price or the buyer’s ability to register the vehicle.
Do You Need a Pink Slip for Scrap or Trade Sales?
If you’re selling your car to a scrapyard, cash-for-cars service, or trading it in to a dealer, you usually don’t need a pink slip. These businesses handle unroadworthy vehicles and registration transfers on their end.
Real-Life Example: Why Getting a Pink Slip Saved a Sale
One of our customers wanted to sell a 10-year-old Ford Falcon privately. When the buyer requested a pink slip, the car initially failed due to worn brake pads and a cracked windscreen.
After repairing these issues, the car passed inspection and sold quickly with the pink slip in hand. This simple step gave the buyer confidence and sped up the sale.
In Summary: When Is a Pink Slip Necessary?
- You need a pink slip for registration renewal if your car is older than six years
- You need one to sell a registered vehicle privately
- You don’t usually need one when trading in or selling to scrap or motor traders
Final Tip: Stay Ahead of the Pink Slip
Even if you’re not selling right now, keeping your car roadworthy and getting a pink slip before you need it can save you last-minute stress. Regular maintenance and safety checks help ensure your vehicle stays safe and legal on the road.
If you need help selling your car—whether it’s roadworthy or not—contact us. We offer hassle-free service and can often buy your vehicle without a pink slip.
If you are in Scoresby, and looking to sell your car or get cash for trucks, below is the best way to visit us.
Eastern Cash For Cars
720 High St Rd, Glen Waverley, VIC 3150
(03) 7035 7830
www.easterncashforcars.com.au
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