If you are planning to sell your car in Sharjah, you probably already know that it is more complicated than just finding a buyer and handing over the keys. One of the most difficult and confusing parts of the process is the RTA car inspection. It is very important to understand these rules so that you don’t end up with fines, hold-ups, or a failed transfer at the last minute.
At MyScrapCars.com we get inquiries daily asking us: “Do I need an RTA inspection when I sell my car in Sharjah?” So the short answer is yes — unless you are scrapping the car, exporting it, or transferring ownership within the family under special conditions. Let’s break down the RTA car testing rules from Sharjah, what to expect, what you need to do to pass, and what to do if your car is not in good enough shape to complete the process.
What is the Importance of the RTA Car Inspection?
In the UAE, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Sharjah's car testing centres require vehicles to be roadworthy before they can be sold or transferred to another owner's name. This is typically intended to ensure the vehicle is safe to ensure it meets the environmental standards to be on the road.
So if you have been wondering, "Is an RTA inspection required before I can sell my car in Sharjah?" The answer is almost always yes, especially for registered vehicles. You must have a valid passing certificate to complete the transfer of ownership with the Sharjah Traffic Department.
Where to Get RTA Car Inspections in Sharjah?
Sharjah has many authorized vehicle testing centers, and vehicles are checked for everything from essential safety features to emissions. The following are some notable examples:
- Tasjeel Vehicle Testing Centre
- Wasit Vehicle Testing
- Autopro Testing Centres
- RTA-approved garages
When you type "RTA car inspection near me, Sharjah," you will see there are many licensed centers that can deal with your car's inspection in no time and on the cheap.
What Does the RTA Car Inspection Entail?
This is a common question from car sellers, and I get asked it often: What do they check in an RTA inspection before buying?
In Sharjah, the inspection generally includes:
- Brakes and suspension: Will be in good condition for safe driving.
- Lights and indicators: All lights have to be working.
- Windscreen and windows: No huge cracks or damage that affects visibility.
- Tyres: Have good tread depth, aren’t worn, and are not damaged.
- Exhaust system: Meet UAE emissions.
- Chassis and frame: No significant damage or rust that threatens safety.
They may also investigate any repairs for accident damage to help determine whether the car is fundamentally sound and wasn’t poorly restored.
What Happens if You Fail the RTA Car Inspection?
Failing the RTA inspection is an emotional and frustrating experience, but it is important to remember that it is not the end of the road. You will receive a report that lists the faults that need to be fixed. After the repairs, you will need to re-test the car and pass to legally sell the vehicle.
For some people, particularly people who have older cars or cars that are damaged beyond repair, you would not want to repair a failed car. This is the time to start searching “sell failed car Sharjah” or “scrap my car after failed RTA test.” At MyScrapCars.com, we buy cars that fail, cars that are far too expensive to fix, or cars that have been deemed unroadworthy.
How to clear the RTA inspection before selling
Want to avoid a nasty surprise? Here are a few tips from the experts to pass your RTA inspection the first time:
- Service your car before the test: a simple oil and filter change, followed by a quick safety inspection, can help avoid most common failures.
- Inspect your tyres: ensure proper tire pressure and check tread depth. Worn tyres are one of the leading reasons for failed tests.
- Fix minor lights and chip repairs: replace burnt out bulbs and repair cracked tail lights and chipped, but not severely cracked, windscreens.
- Have your paperwork ready: always keep your Emirates ID, car registration card (Mulkiya), and any previous inspection reports handy.
All these areas help you not only save time if you need multiple re-tests, but also time when finalising your sale.
Whether Scrap Cars Need RTA Inspection?
One question we get asked regularly is: "If I am scrapping my car in Sharjah, do I need to pass an RTA inspection?" The answer is no - if your car is scrapped, and is being de-registered, then you don't require a passing certificate.
However, you must deregister your car in the Sharjah Traffic Department, and there are companies like MyScrapCars.com that will help you with this: we do the RTA de-registration application for you and provide you with a Certificate of Vehicle Cancellation, which is important so that you don't have any fines later.
What Paperwork Do You Need?
If you are selling your scrap car, you\'ll need:
- Emirates ID
- Original car registration ( Mulkiya)
- A valid passing certificate issued by the RTA (unless scrapping)
- Clearance of any car loan or fines owed
- De-registration certificate if you are scrapping
Professional buyers like us make this easy with no fuss or surprises!
Reasons Why Many Sellers Scrap Cars that Fail RTA Testing
Sometimes, the cost of repairs far exceeds the resale value of your car. For example, if you have a very old car with ongoing engine trouble, a severely damaged chassis or significant emission concerns, the cost of repairs may outweigh the resale value of your car.
In such a case, many buyers will look for scrap car buyers in Sharjah instead. Selling to a trusted buyer like MyScrapCars.com allows you to:
- Obtain cash immediately, even for dead or failed cars.
- Eliminate the cost of re-testing fees or the cost of repairs.
- Remove the car for free anywhere in Sharjah.
- Ensure legal de-registration and avoid fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is an RTA passing certificate valid for?
A: Generally, if you receive an RTA passing certificate, it is valid for 30 days. You will need to sell and transfer within the 30 days; otherwise, you will have to ensure that the vehicle passes the re-test.
Q: Can I sell my car without a passing certificate?
A: No, except for scrapping it or exporting it. You need a valid passing report when transferring ownership of all forms of local ownership.
Q: How much does the RTA inspection cost?
A: The fees vary, but are usually between AED 150–250. It depends on your vehicle and your testing centre.
Q: What if I keep a failed car without fixing it?
A: You cannot sell it, legally. You may also be fined if it is abandoned or on public roads.
Why Use MyScrapCars.com?
MyScrapCars.com markets your car for you. We will help owners of Sharjah cars to:
- Sell a car for cash - accident/failed/dead.
- Cancel their car registration fast and legally.
- Get free removal and no additional fees.
- Stop worrying about ending repairs or tests.
MyScrapCars.com is sincerely trusted by thousands when searching “how to sell a car that failed RTA inspection in Sharjah”, or “scrap my car Sharjah”, or “sell dead car for cash".
Conclusion
When it comes to selling your car in Sharjah, knowing how to rule out the RTA car inspection processes can save you time, money, and heartache in the end. And whether your vehicle passes or fails, you still have an option or two — and MyScrapCars.com can assist you with both.
When you're ready to sell your car and don't want the hassle, just reach out to us for a complimentary quote. We pay cash for your old or unpassable, scrap vehicle, and take care of the paperwork so you can move on easily.
