A Safety Certificate is required when selling a registered trailer. A trailer will fail an inspection for its electrical components if the following is present.

• Are not clearly visible, affected by dirty lenses or poor electrical contact
• Lenses are not mounted securely, cracked, holes, faded, discoloured or any other damage that allows dirt or moisture into the lens.
• The number plate light directs light on other surfaces other than the number plate
• The reverse light does not operate when the towing vehicle is engaged in reverse (if fitted with these lights)

These rules are applicable to any of the following lights.

• Park or side lights
• Brake Lights (on hand and foot control
• Tail Lights
• Turn signal indicator lights
• Clearance/Side Marker Lights (if fitted)
• Number plate Light
• Reversing Light (if fitted)
• Additional lights (if fitted)

Take care in adding additional lights to a trailer because if they obstruct the statutory lighting then it will also cause a rejection for the Safety Certificate.

Wiring harnesses need to be stowed in a securely mounted position and insulated. Exposure to heat or chafing will cause danger to the operation of the vehicle and will not pass a Safety Certificate Inspection.

Additional Tips:

• All doors, hatches and removable covers need to be securely fitted and operational.
• All door handles, catches and hinges need to be operation and free from corrosion and not cracked/broken.

Note: There are other categories that are required to pass the minimum Safety Standards as per the Department of Queensland Transport and Main Roads Code of Practice.

This article is only highlighting the most common faults.