If you’re planning to take your caravan on the road or looking to sell it in Queensland, getting a caravan roadworthy Gold Coast inspection is a vital step. This check ensures your caravan meets the minimum safety standards required by the state and gives you the legal go-ahead for registration, sale, or transfer. At Roadworthy Gold Coast, we make this process simple, mobile, and stress-free — so you can focus on where you’re heading next.

Let’s walk through what a caravan roadworthy inspection includes, why it’s different from a general service, and how our mobile team helps caravan owners across the Gold Coast stay compliant and confident.

What Does “Caravan Roadworthy” Mean?

In Queensland, a roadworthy certificate — officially known as a safety certificate — is a legal requirement when:

• You’re selling your caravan.
• You’re transferring ownership.
• You’re registering a caravan (newly purchased or previously unregistered)
• You’re moving a caravan’s registration from another state to QLD

A caravan roadworthy inspection checks the safety of key components that affect the van’s ability to be towed safely on public roads. It’s not a mechanical service — it’s a legal compliance check to ensure safety standards are met.

Once your caravan passes the inspection, you’ll receive an official caravan safety certificate, which you’ll need to complete any registration or sale process.

What’s Included in a Caravan Roadworthy Inspection?

A proper caravan roadworthy Gold Coast inspection involves a thorough check of the caravan’s core safety systems. At Roadworthy Gold Coast, our experienced mobile inspectors follow all requirements set by the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads.

Here’s what we assess:

1. Tyres and Wheels

We examine tread depth, signs of wear or damage, correct sizing, and wheel alignment. This includes the spare tyre — so make sure it’s roadworthy too.

2. Braking Systems

If your caravan is fitted with brakes (required for vans over 750 kg GTM), we test their function and integrity. This includes electric brakes, handbrakes, and breakaway systems if installed.

3. Lighting and Reflectors

We check all external lights — tail lights, brake lights, indicators — as well as reflectors and number plate lighting. These must be functional and clearly visible.

4. Suspension and Axles

The undercarriage is inspected for worn components, rust, or signs of damage. We look at leaf springs, shock absorbers, bushings, and axle mounting points.

5. Chassis and Drawbar

We assess structural strength, check for cracks or corrosion, and confirm that the chassis and drawbar are secure and sound.

6. Coupling and Safety Chains

Two hitches and couplings must lock securely. Safety chains should be properly rated, undamaged, and securely attached.

7. VIN Plate

A visible, legible Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate must be affixed to the caravan.

We don’t cut corners. Your safety — and that of other road users — depends on everything being up to scratch.

Roadworthy Certificate vs. Full Caravan Service

It’s common to confuse a caravan roadworthy certificate with a mechanical service, but they serve very different purposes.

• A roadworthy certificate is a legal requirement for sale or registration. It confirms your caravan is safe to tow.
• A mechanical service involves a much deeper check — including internal appliances, water systems, seals, and more.

At Roadworthy Gold Coast, we focus on what the law requires for compliance. If you’re planning a big trip, we always recommend getting a full service separately — but your roadworthy inspection is the first box to tick for legal peace of mind.

Why a Roadworthy Certificate Matters for Caravan Sales

If you’re selling a caravan on the Gold Coast, you’re legally responsible for providing a valid safety certificate before transferring registration. Without it:

• You can’t legally complete the sale.
• The buyer won’t be able to register the caravan.
• You could be fined if caught driving without one.

Buyers are also more confident when a valid certificate is available — it signals transparency and saves them time and money. Whether you’re a private seller or caravan dealer, providing a roadworthy certificate gives your listing a professional edge.

Mobile Caravan Roadworthy Inspections – We Come to You

Let’s face it — towing a caravan to a workshop just for an inspection can be a pain. That’s why Roadworthy Gold Coast brings the inspection to you.

Our mobile caravan inspection service is ideal for:

• Caravans are parked at home.
• Caravans in storage yards
• Holiday parks and caravan parks
• Caravans in hard-to-reach driveways or rural locations

We operate 7 days a week across Palm Beach, Burleigh Heads, Robina, Miami, Currumbin, Tugun, and beyond. You choose the location, and we’ll handle the rest.

How Long Does a Caravan Roadworthy Certificate Last?

In Queensland:

• For private sellers, a safety certificate is valid for 2 months or 2,000 km from the date of issue (whichever comes first).
• For licensed dealers, the certificate is valid for 3 months or 1,000 km.

This time limit means you’ll want to arrange the inspection fairly close to the time of sale or registration. If the certificate expires, a new inspection is required.

Common Reasons Caravans Fail Their First Inspection

While we do everything we can to help our clients pass, some caravans don’t make it through on the first go. Here are the most common issues we find:

• Tyres below minimum tread depth or dry/cracked rubber
• Non-functional brake lights or indicators
• Corrosion on the chassis or drawbar
• Loose or missing safety chains
• Damaged tow hitches or couplings
• Faded or illegible VIN plates

Most of these are easy to fix — and we’ll provide a clear report if anything needs attention. Once those items are sorted, just book a quick re-inspection.

How to Prepare Before We Arrive

Want to avoid surprises? A few quick checks before we arrive can help:

• Test all lights and indicators.
• Check tyre pressure and wear (don’t forget the spare)
• Make sure the VIN plate is visible and clean.
• Confirm that the tow hitch locks are properly engaged and aren’t rusted.
• Inspect the safety chains and their attachments.
• If brakes are fitted, test for smooth operation

Also, please ensure we have safe, level access to the caravan. If it’s in a tight space, let us know in advance — we’ll always do our best to accommodate.

Why Gold Coast Locals Trust Roadworthy Gold Coast

At Roadworthy Gold Coast, we’ve built a reputation for making compliance simple, transparent, and stress-free. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Fully licensed and insured mobile inspectors
• 7-day availability, including public holidays
• Prompt, reliable service that respects your time
• Friendly communication and no unnecessary delays
• Based in Palm Beach and trusted across the Gold Coast
• Certificates are issued promptly once passed.

Whether you’re a retiree prepping for a road trip or a family ready to sell your caravan, we’ll help you tick this box with ease.

Book Your Caravan Roadworthy Gold Coast Inspection Today

Ready to get roadworthy? We’re here to help.

With Roadworthy Gold Coast, booking is simple, the service is mobile, and the inspection process is straightforward. No towing, no workshop stress — just friendly, local professionals helping you stay compliant and safe.