What Is WOVR in QLD? Written-Off Vehicle Rules, Checks & Selling Tips
Find out what WOVR means in Queensland, how it affects selling and registering a car, what WOVI inspections involve, and what to do if you're dealing with a repairable write-off.
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May 17, 2025
Thinking of Buying or Selling a WOVR Car in Queensland?
If you’ve come across a WOVR vehicle—or are trying to sell one—it’s important to know exactly what that means. In this guide, I’ll explain what WOVR is, how the inspection process works, and what to expect if you're buying or selling a car that’s been written off.
What Does WOVR Mean in Queensland?
WOVR stands for the Written-Off Vehicle Register. It’s a national database that tracks vehicles that have been deemed uneconomical to repair—either due to accident damage, water damage, or being written off by an insurer.
There are two main types:
- Statutory Write-Off: Cannot be registered again, ever.
- Repairable Write-Off: Can be re-registered, but only after a WOVI inspection.
If a car is on the WOVR, it means it’s been flagged. This shows up in history checks and affects resale, registration, and insurance.
What Is a WOVI Inspection?
WOVI stands for Written-Off Vehicle Inspection. It's required in QLD before a repairable write-off can be re-registered.
Here’s how it works:
- The car must be repaired to meet roadworthy standards.
- You’ll need to book a WOVI through Queensland Transport.
- They’ll inspect the vehicle and check the identity of key parts to prevent rebirthing.
- You can’t just roll up—WOVI bookings are tightly managed.
A WOVI is not the same as a roadworthy certificate - you’ll need both if you’re re-registering the car.
WOVR vs WOVI vs Write-Off Types
| Term | What It Means |
|---|---|
| WOVR | Written-Off Vehicle Register – a national record of damaged cars |
| Repairable Write-Off | Can be fixed and re-registered after passing WOVI and roadworthy |
| Statutory Write-Off | Can’t be registered again – only sold for parts or scrap |
| WOVI | An inspection required to re-register a repairable write-off |
Can You Sell a WOVR Car in QLD?
Yes, but it depends on the status:
- Registered Repairable Write-Off:
You can sell it like any other car—but you must disclose that it’s been written off. - Unregistered Repairable Write-Off:
You can still sell it, but the buyer will need to pass a WOVI before it’s registered again. - Statutory Write-Off:
You can only sell for parts or scrap—it can’t ever be registered.
So yes, WOVR cars can be sold, but they’re a different beast entirely.
| Type of WOVR Car | Can You Sell It? | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Repairable Write-Off | Yes | Must disclose to buyer |
| Unregistered Repairable Write-Off | Yes | Buyer must pass WOVI + roadworthy |
| Statutory Write-Off | No (for road use) | Parts or scrap only |
Can You Insure a Repairable Write-Off?
It’s tricky. Most insurers won’t cover WOVR vehicles with comprehensive insurance, even after a WOVI.
You might be able to get:
- Third-party property
- Fire and theft cover
- Or no insurance at all
Be honest with your insurer, or you could end up with a useless policy.
Tips for Selling a WOVR Car in QLD
If you’re selling a WOVR vehicle, here’s how to do it right:
- Be upfront in your ad. Say it’s on the WOVR.
- Show how photos of damage and receipts for repairs.
- Mention if it passed a WOVI or roadworthy.
- Sell to someone who understands what WOVR means (like us).
Trying to hide it will just waste your time and invite lowballers.
How to Check a Car’s WOVR Status
Before you buy or sell, run a quick WOVR check using the Queensland Government PPSR website.
It’ll tell you:
- If it’s a statutory or repairable write-off
- If it passed a WOVI
- If it’s been registered since
Some buyers will check this themselves, so beat them to it.
We Buy WOVR Cars (So You Don’t Have to Stress)
Don’t want to deal with picky buyers or inspection bookings?
We buy WOVR cars as-is—no pressure, no judgement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The WOVR?
WOVR stands for the Written-Off Vehicle Register. It’s a national database that records vehicles that have been written off due to damage. In Queensland, this impacts whether a car can be re-registered, insured, or legally sold.
What’s the Difference Between WOVR and WOVI?
WOVR (Written-Off Vehicle Register) is the register where written-off vehicles are recorded.
WOVI (Written-Off Vehicle Inspection) is a physical inspection required in Queensland before a repairable write-off can be re-registered.
Can You Sell a Car That’s on the WOVR?
Yes, you can sell a WOVR-listed car in QLD—but there are rules. Repairable write-offs can be sold (with full disclosure), while statutory write-offs can only be sold for parts or scrap.
If you're unsure about what steps to take after the WOVI or how to actually list the car, check out our complete QLD selling guide for tips on prep, pricing, and paperwork.
