Roadworthy describes a vehicle that's safe and legal to drive on public roads. A roadworthy car has working brakes, functional lights, good tires, and all the other equipment required by law. When a mechanic inspects a car and declares it roadworthy, they're saying it meets the minimum safety standards and won't endanger the driver or other people on the road.

The opposite would be a car that's broken down, dangerously worn out, or missing required equipment. An old truck with bald tires and broken headlights isn't roadworthy. A bicycle with bad brakes wouldn't be roadworthy either (though we usually use the term for cars, trucks, and motorcycles).

Some countries require regular inspections to prove vehicles are roadworthy before owners can renew their registration.