A Roadworthy Inspection normally takes 30 Minutes. During this time, the vehicle will be subject to several tests to ensure that the vehicle is safe for normal use on the road. The inspection is generally divided into 4 key parts*

Part 1 – Short Test Drive and Brake Test

The car is taken for a short test drive for the tester to gauge the condition of the vehicle. This is followed by a Brake Test conducted by a Calibrated Brake Testing tool. The Brake tester will measure the distance taken to stop the vehicle from 35km/h and the g-forces while the vehicle is decelerating. The information provided will form part of the Roadworthy Inspection.

Part 2 – Interior Inspection

The Vehicle is then taken to the Testing Bay and the overall condition of the Interior is checked to ensure that all safety related items are functional.

This includes,

  • Condition of the seat and the Seat Rails to ensure that the seat is securely fitted.
  • Seat Belts are securely fitted. All components such as Retractors and Tensioners are functional and there is no visible damage to the Seat Belt Webbing.
  • All latches and switches to operate any hinged doors, tailgates, hatch & bootlid is working from the inside and outside of the vehicle (where applicable)
  • All Driving Controls and Pedal Faces have not worn out and are covered by Non-Slip Material.
  • Condition of the Windscreen Wiper and Washer system
Part 3 – Exterior Inspection (Vehicle on Floor)

The exterior of the vehicle is checked prior to being raised off the ground. The main components that are inspected are

  • Lamps, Signals & Reflectors. All lamps on the vehicle must be working at the time of the test.
  • Condition of the Windscreen. The Windscreen is checked from discolouration, scratches, chips or cracks.
  • Condition of other Windows.
  • The Engine and Driveline is free of flowing or dripping oil or fluid.
Part 4 – Under Car Inspection (Including Wheels and Tyres)

The vehicle is raised off the ground with the vehicles wheel removed. Several key points of the Vehicle is inspected

  • Tread Depth of Tyres (Minimum 1.5mm)
  • Condition of Tyres (Free of Cuts, Bulges or visible structural damage to the rubber)
  • Steering Inspection. This includes check for excessive free play and excessive wear.
  • Suspension Inspection. The suspension must be securely mounted with no cracks or fractures. They must function as designed with no major leaks.
  • Visual Brake Inspection which include the condition and thickness of the brake pad and disc (or drum).
  • Visual Exhaust Inspection
  • General Struction of the Body and Chassis.

*This section covers a brief overview of what is normally inspected. Other safety related items may also be inspected by the tester if necessary. For more detailed information on Roadworthiness Requirements, please see the Vicroads Roadworthiness Requirements Factsheet