Quick Answer: There’s no no annual inspection needed in Western Australia to maintain your vehicle licence.
While there’s plenty of government information available online about vehicle and driver licensing, it can sometimes feel difficult to navigate – especially when you’re looking at law and legislation. To help you understand the vehicle registration rules in Western Australia, we’ve covered the key points in this article – so you can get an overview, then dig deeper into any specific point that’s relevant to you!
Motor Vehicle Registration Requirements Western Australia
Here’s a summary of the key Vehicle Registration Rules in Western Australia (WA):
- All motor vehicles driven on WA roads must be registered, with exceptions for temporary permits or towed unregistered vehicles.
- Registration can be done by individuals or businesses who are the registered operators of the vehicle.
- You typically have three months to register a new car in your name. Proof of purchase, an identity check, and a vehicle inspection certificate might be required.
- When buying a used car already registered in WA, you have 14 days to transfer the registration to your name.
- Moving to WA: If moving to WA from another state or territory and bringing your registered car, you have three months to register it in WA. A vehicle inspection might be required.
- You can choose registration periods of 3, 6, or 12 months.
- Registration fees depend on vehicle type, emissions, chosen registration period, and any concessions you might be eligible for (e.g., electric vehicles).
- A vehicle inspection by a licensed workshop is mandatory for new vehicle registrations, transfers from interstate, and registration renewals after a certain period (typically depends on vehicle age).
Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically checked during a WA vehcile registration inspection:
In Western Australia, a vehicle inspection is mandatory for several registration scenarios.
Essential Safety Components:
- Brakes: Functionality, wear and tear on pads and discs/drums.
- Steering and Suspension: Condition of components, alignment, any leaks.
- Tyres: Tread depth, overall condition, correct inflation pressure.
- Lights and Indicators: Operation of headlights, taillights, brake lights, car battery, turn signals, and hazard lights.
- Windscreen and Windows: Cracks, chips, visibility issues that might impede safe driving.
- Seatbelts: Functionality and proper operation.
Body and Chassis:
- Rust or damage that could compromise structural integrity.
- Modifications that haven’t been approved or might affect safety.
- Leaks from fluids like engine oil, brake fluid, or coolant.
Emissions (in some cases):
- Exhaust gas emissions might be tested depending on the vehicle’s age and type, particularly for older vehicles.
Vehicle Identification (VIN):
- Matching the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the car with the one on the registration documents.
Important Notes and Resources:
- The specific inspection requirements can vary depending on the reason for the inspection (new registration, transfer, renewal after a certain period).
- It’s always recommended that a vehicle owner consult a licensed workshop performing the inspection to understand their specific process.
- Department of Transport (WA) – License My Vehicle (Registration):
If you are the owner of a heavy vehicle (including a bus, tow truck, rigid truck, agricultural vehicle, and more), it’s important to look at your vehicle details on the Government Department of Transport website. There are different licensing requirements based on figures relevant to your vehicle – such as gross vehicle mass, maximum loaded mass, aggregate trailer mass and more. Also, different licence fees can apply.
Please remember – this is a general overview. It’s always recommended to consult the official Western Australian government resources for the latest information and any specific requirements that might apply to your situation.
Tips:
- Make sure your car is in good working order before any rego check with a car service.
- If buying a second-hand car, make sure you get a Pre-purchase Inspection to make sure the car is accident-free and not in need of major mechanical work.
Written By
Matt Banks
Matt is the founder of Autohero.com.au and has been hooked on cars and repairs ever since childhood.
A veteran in automotive since leaving school, Matt has completed his trade as a panel beater and is across all things with wheels.
His first car was a 1967 FORD XR Wagon followed by a string of collectable Holden’s.
Have a question for Matt? leave a comment below.