A vehicle is considered roadworthy when it meets all mechanical and safety standards required for legal operation on public highways. This status means the brakes, steering, suspension, tires, and lighting systems function correctly and pose no danger to the occupants or other drivers. Mechanics verify this condition during official state or national safety inspections.
We patched the floor pan and replaced the tie rods, so it's finally roadworthy enough to pass the state inspection.
Related terms
Unroadworthy
An unroadworthy vehicle has mechanical or structural defects that make it unsafe or illegal to drive on public roads.
Warrant
A regional term for a mandatory safety inspection certificate required for legal road use.
SORN
The Statutory Off Road Notification used in the UK to declare a vehicle is not being driven.