In different states and territories in Australia, there are different laws and regulations for a vehicle inspection. So costs vary. Find out what applies where you live.

ACT

If you need a vehicle inspection, you need to go to the Dickson Motor Registry or an Approved Inspection Station. Contact the Approved Inspection Station directly to find out how much this will cost.

Note that all vehicles over 4.5 tonnes GVM, public vehicles, imported vehicles or vehicles without compliance plates must go to the Dickson Motor Registry.

NSW

If your car is older than five years, you will need to get a safety check upon re-registration. Fees vary according to the type of vehicle and services.

Northern Territory

If your car is older than three years, you will need an authorised examiner to inspect it before the registration can be issued, renewed or transferred from interstate to NT. There are a number of Authorised Vehicle Inspection Stations across the state where you can do this. Visit the Department of Transport website to obtain a list and contact them directly for the costs.

Queensland

In Queensland you need a safety certificate before a vehicle can go on sale. You obtain a safety certificate by getting an inspection from an Approved Inspection Station. Fees vary for different vehicles and services, as well as the area. You should contact stations directly for their fees.

South Australia

To book an inspection, go to the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure website. There are a number of different fees for different types of cars and conditions. You should contact them to find out the latest fees.

Tasmania

In Tasmania, you generally need an inspection if your car requires registration or re-registration. You can get this done at an Approved Inspection Station or at the Transport Enquiry Service (for heavy vehicles and written-off vehicles). Fees vary according to what sort of inspection you need. There are no inspection fees for registration for NEW vehicles, though the approved inspection stations charge an inspection fee that they determine themselves. You will need to contact them individually to find out how much it costs.

Victoria

In Victoria, all vehicles to be sold or re-registered require a Certificate of Roadworthiness. These are issued by licensed vehicle testers that operate from nominated service stations or garages. You can find a list of these on the Vic Roads website. You should contact them directly to find out how much it will cost, as it depends on age, type and condition of the vehicle.

Western Australia

In Western Australia you may need an inspection of your vehicle for a few different reasons. There are a number of Approved Inspection Stations but the fees are not fixed and will depend on the type of vehicle and what services you need.

You should check with the Department of Transport in your state or territory in order to confirm the pricing in your area, and to find out where the approved inspection stations are.