NZ WoF Inspector cheat sheet

WoF is the periodic safety inspection for light vehicles; CoF applies to heavy vehicles and specified vehicles such as passenger service vehicles, rental, and trade vehicles.

WoF inspection frequency: first inspection by the third anniversary of first registration, then annually until the vehicle is 14 years old, then every 6 months.

CoF frequency: generally every 6 months; certain heavy vehicles may be inspected every 12 months where the operator holds an approved inspection programme.

A WoF/CoF certifies the vehicle met the required standard at the time of inspection only; it is not a warranty of continued roadworthiness.

Inspection outcomes: pass (new warrant issued), fail (defects recorded, vehicle may not be operated except to a permitted destination), or pass subject to minor corrective action where allowed.

The inspection record must identify the vehicle, the inspector, date, odometer reading, and any defects found; records are retained and available for audit.

A vehicle presented with a current warrant that has been modified outside permitted standards may be failed and the modification recorded as a defect.

Corrosion, structural damage, brake performance, steering, tyres, lighting, glazing, and seat restraints are core inspection areas for both WoF and CoF.

A new warrant is issued only after all recorded defects are rectified and re-inspected or verified by an authorised person.

Tyre minimum tread depth for cars and light vehicles is 1.5 mm across the full width of the tread; heavy vehicle tyres require 1.5 mm as well but with additional load and condition checks.

Tyres must be free of cuts, bulges, exposed cords, and must be correctly matched in size and construction on the same axle where required.

Brake performance is assessed by roller brake test or decelerometer; service brake and park brake must meet the minimum efficiency thresholds for the vehicle class.

Lighting: headlamps must be correctly aimed, all lamps must operate, and no lamp may show a colour other than that prescribed (white/amber forward, red rearward).

Glazing: windscreens must be free of damage in the driver's critical vision area; cracks and chips outside that area are assessed against size and position limits.

Seat belts and anchorages must be present, functional, and undamaged; retrofitted belts must meet approved standards.

Exhaust emissions: petrol vehicles are tested for CO and HC at idle and fast idle where applicable; diesel vehicles are assessed for visible smoke.

Steering and suspension components must have no excessive play, and no component may be cracked, bent, or excessively worn.

Vehicle dimensions, gross vehicle mass, and axle loads must not exceed the limits recorded on the vehicle's registration or the applicable standard.

Inspecting organisations must hold a current approval from the transport authority; approval can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance.

Inspectors must hold the appropriate authorisation for the vehicle classes they inspect and must not inspect vehicles they have a conflict of interest in.

Inspectors must use approved equipment that is calibrated and within its calibration validity period at the time of inspection.

An inspector who issues a warrant for a vehicle that does not meet the standard may face suspension, revocation, and civil or criminal liability.

Inspection records must be retained for the period specified by the authority and made available on request for audit.

Inspectors must record all defects found, even if the vehicle ultimately passes after rectification.

Inspecting organisations must maintain a quality management system and undergo periodic audits by the authority.

An inspector must not issue a warrant where the vehicle identity cannot be verified or where the odometer reading is inconsistent with the vehicle's history.

All motor vehicles used on public roads must be registered and licensed; driving an unregistered or unlicensed vehicle is an offence.

Registration is continuous; licensing is periodic (usually 12 months) and a licence label or electronic record must be current.

Road user charges (RUC) apply to diesel vehicles and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass; petrol vehicles pay through fuel excise instead.

RUC is purchased in advance in units of 1,000 km; operating beyond the purchased distance is an offence and attracts penalties.

RUC licence labels must be displayed as required, and the distance recorder (odometer or hubometer) must be accurate and functional.

Exemption from RUC applies to certain vehicles such as those powered solely by petrol or those in specified exempt categories.

Registration can be cancelled only in specified circumstances, such as vehicle destruction or permanent removal from New Zealand roads.

Vehicle licensing fees include the licence fee, ACC levy, and any applicable RUC; failure to pay can result in the licence not being issued.

A vehicle must display a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness in addition to being registered and licensed.

WoF is the periodic safety inspection for light vehicles; CoF applies to heavy vehicles and specified vehicles such as passenger service vehicles, rental, and trade vehicles.

WoF inspection frequency: first inspection by the third anniversary of first registration, then annually until the vehicle is 14 years old, then every 6 months.

CoF frequency: generally every 6 months; certain heavy vehicles may be inspected every 12 months where the operator holds an approved inspection programme.

A WoF/CoF certifies the vehicle met the required standard at the time of inspection only; it is not a warranty of continued roadworthiness.

Inspection outcomes: pass (new warrant issued), fail (defects recorded, vehicle may not be operated except to a permitted destination), or pass subject to minor corrective action where allowed.

The inspection record must identify the vehicle, the inspector, date, odometer reading, and any defects found; records are retained and available for audit.

A vehicle presented with a current warrant that has been modified outside permitted standards may be failed and the modification recorded as a defect.

Corrosion, structural damage, brake performance, steering, tyres, lighting, glazing, and seat restraints are core inspection areas for both WoF and CoF.

A new warrant is issued only after all recorded defects are rectified and re-inspected or verified by an authorised person.

Tyre minimum tread depth for cars and light vehicles is 1.5 mm across the full width of the tread; heavy vehicle tyres require 1.5 mm as well but with additional load and condition checks.

Tyres must be free of cuts, bulges, exposed cords, and must be correctly matched in size and construction on the same axle where required.

Brake performance is assessed by roller brake test or decelerometer; service brake and park brake must meet the minimum efficiency thresholds for the vehicle class.

Lighting: headlamps must be correctly aimed, all lamps must operate, and no lamp may show a colour other than that prescribed (white/amber forward, red rearward).

Glazing: windscreens must be free of damage in the driver's critical vision area; cracks and chips outside that area are assessed against size and position limits.

Seat belts and anchorages must be present, functional, and undamaged; retrofitted belts must meet approved standards.

Exhaust emissions: petrol vehicles are tested for CO and HC at idle and fast idle where applicable; diesel vehicles are assessed for visible smoke.

Steering and suspension components must have no excessive play, and no component may be cracked, bent, or excessively worn.

Vehicle dimensions, gross vehicle mass, and axle loads must not exceed the limits recorded on the vehicle's registration or the applicable standard.

Inspecting organisations must hold a current approval from the transport authority; approval can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance.

Inspectors must hold the appropriate authorisation for the vehicle classes they inspect and must not inspect vehicles they have a conflict of interest in.

Inspectors must use approved equipment that is calibrated and within its calibration validity period at the time of inspection.

An inspector who issues a warrant for a vehicle that does not meet the standard may face suspension, revocation, and civil or criminal liability.

Inspection records must be retained for the period specified by the authority and made available on request for audit.

Inspectors must record all defects found, even if the vehicle ultimately passes after rectification.

Inspecting organisations must maintain a quality management system and undergo periodic audits by the authority.

An inspector must not issue a warrant where the vehicle identity cannot be verified or where the odometer reading is inconsistent with the vehicle's history.

All motor vehicles used on public roads must be registered and licensed; driving an unregistered or unlicensed vehicle is an offence.

Registration is continuous; licensing is periodic (usually 12 months) and a licence label or electronic record must be current.

Road user charges (RUC) apply to diesel vehicles and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass; petrol vehicles pay through fuel excise instead.

RUC is purchased in advance in units of 1,000 km; operating beyond the purchased distance is an offence and attracts penalties.

RUC licence labels must be displayed as required, and the distance recorder (odometer or hubometer) must be accurate and functional.

Exemption from RUC applies to certain vehicles such as those powered solely by petrol or those in specified exempt categories.

Registration can be cancelled only in specified circumstances, such as vehicle destruction or permanent removal from New Zealand roads.

Vehicle licensing fees include the licence fee, ACC levy, and any applicable RUC; failure to pay can result in the licence not being issued.

A vehicle must display a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness in addition to being registered and licensed.

WoF is the periodic safety inspection for light vehicles; CoF applies to heavy vehicles and specified vehicles such as passenger service vehicles, rental, and trade vehicles.

WoF inspection frequency: first inspection by the third anniversary of first registration, then annually until the vehicle is 14 years old, then every 6 months.

CoF frequency: generally every 6 months; certain heavy vehicles may be inspected every 12 months where the operator holds an approved inspection programme.

A WoF/CoF certifies the vehicle met the required standard at the time of inspection only; it is not a warranty of continued roadworthiness.

Inspection outcomes: pass (new warrant issued), fail (defects recorded, vehicle may not be operated except to a permitted destination), or pass subject to minor corrective action where allowed.

The inspection record must identify the vehicle, the inspector, date, odometer reading, and any defects found; records are retained and available for audit.

A vehicle presented with a current warrant that has been modified outside permitted standards may be failed and the modification recorded as a defect.

Corrosion, structural damage, brake performance, steering, tyres, lighting, glazing, and seat restraints are core inspection areas for both WoF and CoF.

A new warrant is issued only after all recorded defects are rectified and re-inspected or verified by an authorised person.

Tyre minimum tread depth for cars and light vehicles is 1.5 mm across the full width of the tread; heavy vehicle tyres require 1.5 mm as well but with additional load and condition checks.

Tyres must be free of cuts, bulges, exposed cords, and must be correctly matched in size and construction on the same axle where required.

Brake performance is assessed by roller brake test or decelerometer; service brake and park brake must meet the minimum efficiency thresholds for the vehicle class.

Lighting: headlamps must be correctly aimed, all lamps must operate, and no lamp may show a colour other than that prescribed (white/amber forward, red rearward).

Glazing: windscreens must be free of damage in the driver's critical vision area; cracks and chips outside that area are assessed against size and position limits.

Seat belts and anchorages must be present, functional, and undamaged; retrofitted belts must meet approved standards.

Exhaust emissions: petrol vehicles are tested for CO and HC at idle and fast idle where applicable; diesel vehicles are assessed for visible smoke.

Steering and suspension components must have no excessive play, and no component may be cracked, bent, or excessively worn.

Vehicle dimensions, gross vehicle mass, and axle loads must not exceed the limits recorded on the vehicle's registration or the applicable standard.

Inspecting organisations must hold a current approval from the transport authority; approval can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance.

Inspectors must hold the appropriate authorisation for the vehicle classes they inspect and must not inspect vehicles they have a conflict of interest in.

Inspectors must use approved equipment that is calibrated and within its calibration validity period at the time of inspection.

An inspector who issues a warrant for a vehicle that does not meet the standard may face suspension, revocation, and civil or criminal liability.

Inspection records must be retained for the period specified by the authority and made available on request for audit.

Inspectors must record all defects found, even if the vehicle ultimately passes after rectification.

Inspecting organisations must maintain a quality management system and undergo periodic audits by the authority.

An inspector must not issue a warrant where the vehicle identity cannot be verified or where the odometer reading is inconsistent with the vehicle's history.

All motor vehicles used on public roads must be registered and licensed; driving an unregistered or unlicensed vehicle is an offence.

Registration is continuous; licensing is periodic (usually 12 months) and a licence label or electronic record must be current.

Road user charges (RUC) apply to diesel vehicles and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass; petrol vehicles pay through fuel excise instead.

RUC is purchased in advance in units of 1,000 km; operating beyond the purchased distance is an offence and attracts penalties.

RUC licence labels must be displayed as required, and the distance recorder (odometer or hubometer) must be accurate and functional.

Exemption from RUC applies to certain vehicles such as those powered solely by petrol or those in specified exempt categories.

Registration can be cancelled only in specified circumstances, such as vehicle destruction or permanent removal from New Zealand roads.

Vehicle licensing fees include the licence fee, ACC levy, and any applicable RUC; failure to pay can result in the licence not being issued.

A vehicle must display a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness in addition to being registered and licensed.

WoF is the periodic safety inspection for light vehicles; CoF applies to heavy vehicles and specified vehicles such as passenger service vehicles, rental, and trade vehicles.

WoF inspection frequency: first inspection by the third anniversary of first registration, then annually until the vehicle is 14 years old, then every 6 months.

CoF frequency: generally every 6 months; certain heavy vehicles may be inspected every 12 months where the operator holds an approved inspection programme.

A WoF/CoF certifies the vehicle met the required standard at the time of inspection only; it is not a warranty of continued roadworthiness.

Inspection outcomes: pass (new warrant issued), fail (defects recorded, vehicle may not be operated except to a permitted destination), or pass subject to minor corrective action where allowed.

The inspection record must identify the vehicle, the inspector, date, odometer reading, and any defects found; records are retained and available for audit.

A vehicle presented with a current warrant that has been modified outside permitted standards may be failed and the modification recorded as a defect.

Corrosion, structural damage, brake performance, steering, tyres, lighting, glazing, and seat restraints are core inspection areas for both WoF and CoF.

A new warrant is issued only after all recorded defects are rectified and re-inspected or verified by an authorised person.

Tyre minimum tread depth for cars and light vehicles is 1.5 mm across the full width of the tread; heavy vehicle tyres require 1.5 mm as well but with additional load and condition checks.

Tyres must be free of cuts, bulges, exposed cords, and must be correctly matched in size and construction on the same axle where required.

Brake performance is assessed by roller brake test or decelerometer; service brake and park brake must meet the minimum efficiency thresholds for the vehicle class.

Lighting: headlamps must be correctly aimed, all lamps must operate, and no lamp may show a colour other than that prescribed (white/amber forward, red rearward).

Glazing: windscreens must be free of damage in the driver's critical vision area; cracks and chips outside that area are assessed against size and position limits.

Seat belts and anchorages must be present, functional, and undamaged; retrofitted belts must meet approved standards.

Exhaust emissions: petrol vehicles are tested for CO and HC at idle and fast idle where applicable; diesel vehicles are assessed for visible smoke.

Steering and suspension components must have no excessive play, and no component may be cracked, bent, or excessively worn.

Vehicle dimensions, gross vehicle mass, and axle loads must not exceed the limits recorded on the vehicle's registration or the applicable standard.

Inspecting organisations must hold a current approval from the transport authority; approval can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance.

Inspectors must hold the appropriate authorisation for the vehicle classes they inspect and must not inspect vehicles they have a conflict of interest in.

Inspectors must use approved equipment that is calibrated and within its calibration validity period at the time of inspection.

An inspector who issues a warrant for a vehicle that does not meet the standard may face suspension, revocation, and civil or criminal liability.

Inspection records must be retained for the period specified by the authority and made available on request for audit.

Inspectors must record all defects found, even if the vehicle ultimately passes after rectification.

Inspecting organisations must maintain a quality management system and undergo periodic audits by the authority.

An inspector must not issue a warrant where the vehicle identity cannot be verified or where the odometer reading is inconsistent with the vehicle's history.

All motor vehicles used on public roads must be registered and licensed; driving an unregistered or unlicensed vehicle is an offence.

Registration is continuous; licensing is periodic (usually 12 months) and a licence label or electronic record must be current.

Road user charges (RUC) apply to diesel vehicles and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass; petrol vehicles pay through fuel excise instead.

RUC is purchased in advance in units of 1,000 km; operating beyond the purchased distance is an offence and attracts penalties.

RUC licence labels must be displayed as required, and the distance recorder (odometer or hubometer) must be accurate and functional.

Exemption from RUC applies to certain vehicles such as those powered solely by petrol or those in specified exempt categories.

Registration can be cancelled only in specified circumstances, such as vehicle destruction or permanent removal from New Zealand roads.

Vehicle licensing fees include the licence fee, ACC levy, and any applicable RUC; failure to pay can result in the licence not being issued.

A vehicle must display a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness in addition to being registered and licensed.

WoF is the periodic safety inspection for light vehicles; CoF applies to heavy vehicles and specified vehicles such as passenger service vehicles, rental, and trade vehicles.

WoF inspection frequency: first inspection by the third anniversary of first registration, then annually until the vehicle is 14 years old, then every 6 months.

CoF frequency: generally every 6 months; certain heavy vehicles may be inspected every 12 months where the operator holds an approved inspection programme.

A WoF/CoF certifies the vehicle met the required standard at the time of inspection only; it is not a warranty of continued roadworthiness.

Inspection outcomes: pass (new warrant issued), fail (defects recorded, vehicle may not be operated except to a permitted destination), or pass subject to minor corrective action where allowed.

The inspection record must identify the vehicle, the inspector, date, odometer reading, and any defects found; records are retained and available for audit.

A vehicle presented with a current warrant that has been modified outside permitted standards may be failed and the modification recorded as a defect.

Corrosion, structural damage, brake performance, steering, tyres, lighting, glazing, and seat restraints are core inspection areas for both WoF and CoF.

A new warrant is issued only after all recorded defects are rectified and re-inspected or verified by an authorised person.

Tyre minimum tread depth for cars and light vehicles is 1.5 mm across the full width of the tread; heavy vehicle tyres require 1.5 mm as well but with additional load and condition checks.

Tyres must be free of cuts, bulges, exposed cords, and must be correctly matched in size and construction on the same axle where required.

Brake performance is assessed by roller brake test or decelerometer; service brake and park brake must meet the minimum efficiency thresholds for the vehicle class.

Lighting: headlamps must be correctly aimed, all lamps must operate, and no lamp may show a colour other than that prescribed (white/amber forward, red rearward).

Glazing: windscreens must be free of damage in the driver's critical vision area; cracks and chips outside that area are assessed against size and position limits.

Seat belts and anchorages must be present, functional, and undamaged; retrofitted belts must meet approved standards.

Exhaust emissions: petrol vehicles are tested for CO and HC at idle and fast idle where applicable; diesel vehicles are assessed for visible smoke.

Steering and suspension components must have no excessive play, and no component may be cracked, bent, or excessively worn.

Vehicle dimensions, gross vehicle mass, and axle loads must not exceed the limits recorded on the vehicle's registration or the applicable standard.

Inspecting organisations must hold a current approval from the transport authority; approval can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance.

Inspectors must hold the appropriate authorisation for the vehicle classes they inspect and must not inspect vehicles they have a conflict of interest in.

Inspectors must use approved equipment that is calibrated and within its calibration validity period at the time of inspection.

An inspector who issues a warrant for a vehicle that does not meet the standard may face suspension, revocation, and civil or criminal liability.

Inspection records must be retained for the period specified by the authority and made available on request for audit.

Inspectors must record all defects found, even if the vehicle ultimately passes after rectification.

Inspecting organisations must maintain a quality management system and undergo periodic audits by the authority.

An inspector must not issue a warrant where the vehicle identity cannot be verified or where the odometer reading is inconsistent with the vehicle's history.

All motor vehicles used on public roads must be registered and licensed; driving an unregistered or unlicensed vehicle is an offence.

Registration is continuous; licensing is periodic (usually 12 months) and a licence label or electronic record must be current.

Road user charges (RUC) apply to diesel vehicles and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass; petrol vehicles pay through fuel excise instead.

RUC is purchased in advance in units of 1,000 km; operating beyond the purchased distance is an offence and attracts penalties.

RUC licence labels must be displayed as required, and the distance recorder (odometer or hubometer) must be accurate and functional.

Exemption from RUC applies to certain vehicles such as those powered solely by petrol or those in specified exempt categories.

Registration can be cancelled only in specified circumstances, such as vehicle destruction or permanent removal from New Zealand roads.

Vehicle licensing fees include the licence fee, ACC levy, and any applicable RUC; failure to pay can result in the licence not being issued.

A vehicle must display a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness in addition to being registered and licensed.

WoF is the periodic safety inspection for light vehicles; CoF applies to heavy vehicles and specified vehicles such as passenger service vehicles, rental, and trade vehicles.

WoF inspection frequency: first inspection by the third anniversary of first registration, then annually until the vehicle is 14 years old, then every 6 months.

CoF frequency: generally every 6 months; certain heavy vehicles may be inspected every 12 months where the operator holds an approved inspection programme.

A WoF/CoF certifies the vehicle met the required standard at the time of inspection only; it is not a warranty of continued roadworthiness.

Inspection outcomes: pass (new warrant issued), fail (defects recorded, vehicle may not be operated except to a permitted destination), or pass subject to minor corrective action where allowed.

The inspection record must identify the vehicle, the inspector, date, odometer reading, and any defects found; records are retained and available for audit.

A vehicle presented with a current warrant that has been modified outside permitted standards may be failed and the modification recorded as a defect.

Corrosion, structural damage, brake performance, steering, tyres, lighting, glazing, and seat restraints are core inspection areas for both WoF and CoF.

A new warrant is issued only after all recorded defects are rectified and re-inspected or verified by an authorised person.

Tyre minimum tread depth for cars and light vehicles is 1.5 mm across the full width of the tread; heavy vehicle tyres require 1.5 mm as well but with additional load and condition checks.

Tyres must be free of cuts, bulges, exposed cords, and must be correctly matched in size and construction on the same axle where required.

Brake performance is assessed by roller brake test or decelerometer; service brake and park brake must meet the minimum efficiency thresholds for the vehicle class.

Lighting: headlamps must be correctly aimed, all lamps must operate, and no lamp may show a colour other than that prescribed (white/amber forward, red rearward).

Glazing: windscreens must be free of damage in the driver's critical vision area; cracks and chips outside that area are assessed against size and position limits.

Seat belts and anchorages must be present, functional, and undamaged; retrofitted belts must meet approved standards.

Exhaust emissions: petrol vehicles are tested for CO and HC at idle and fast idle where applicable; diesel vehicles are assessed for visible smoke.

Steering and suspension components must have no excessive play, and no component may be cracked, bent, or excessively worn.

Vehicle dimensions, gross vehicle mass, and axle loads must not exceed the limits recorded on the vehicle's registration or the applicable standard.

Inspecting organisations must hold a current approval from the transport authority; approval can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance.

Inspectors must hold the appropriate authorisation for the vehicle classes they inspect and must not inspect vehicles they have a conflict of interest in.

Inspectors must use approved equipment that is calibrated and within its calibration validity period at the time of inspection.

An inspector who issues a warrant for a vehicle that does not meet the standard may face suspension, revocation, and civil or criminal liability.

Inspection records must be retained for the period specified by the authority and made available on request for audit.

Inspectors must record all defects found, even if the vehicle ultimately passes after rectification.

Inspecting organisations must maintain a quality management system and undergo periodic audits by the authority.

An inspector must not issue a warrant where the vehicle identity cannot be verified or where the odometer reading is inconsistent with the vehicle's history.

All motor vehicles used on public roads must be registered and licensed; driving an unregistered or unlicensed vehicle is an offence.

Registration is continuous; licensing is periodic (usually 12 months) and a licence label or electronic record must be current.

Road user charges (RUC) apply to diesel vehicles and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass; petrol vehicles pay through fuel excise instead.

RUC is purchased in advance in units of 1,000 km; operating beyond the purchased distance is an offence and attracts penalties.

RUC licence labels must be displayed as required, and the distance recorder (odometer or hubometer) must be accurate and functional.

Exemption from RUC applies to certain vehicles such as those powered solely by petrol or those in specified exempt categories.

Registration can be cancelled only in specified circumstances, such as vehicle destruction or permanent removal from New Zealand roads.

Vehicle licensing fees include the licence fee, ACC levy, and any applicable RUC; failure to pay can result in the licence not being issued.

A vehicle must display a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness in addition to being registered and licensed.

WoF is the periodic safety inspection for light vehicles; CoF applies to heavy vehicles and specified vehicles such as passenger service vehicles, rental, and trade vehicles.

WoF inspection frequency: first inspection by the third anniversary of first registration, then annually until the vehicle is 14 years old, then every 6 months.

CoF frequency: generally every 6 months; certain heavy vehicles may be inspected every 12 months where the operator holds an approved inspection programme.

A WoF/CoF certifies the vehicle met the required standard at the time of inspection only; it is not a warranty of continued roadworthiness.

Inspection outcomes: pass (new warrant issued), fail (defects recorded, vehicle may not be operated except to a permitted destination), or pass subject to minor corrective action where allowed.

The inspection record must identify the vehicle, the inspector, date, odometer reading, and any defects found; records are retained and available for audit.

A vehicle presented with a current warrant that has been modified outside permitted standards may be failed and the modification recorded as a defect.

Corrosion, structural damage, brake performance, steering, tyres, lighting, glazing, and seat restraints are core inspection areas for both WoF and CoF.

A new warrant is issued only after all recorded defects are rectified and re-inspected or verified by an authorised person.

Tyre minimum tread depth for cars and light vehicles is 1.5 mm across the full width of the tread; heavy vehicle tyres require 1.5 mm as well but with additional load and condition checks.

Tyres must be free of cuts, bulges, exposed cords, and must be correctly matched in size and construction on the same axle where required.

Brake performance is assessed by roller brake test or decelerometer; service brake and park brake must meet the minimum efficiency thresholds for the vehicle class.

Lighting: headlamps must be correctly aimed, all lamps must operate, and no lamp may show a colour other than that prescribed (white/amber forward, red rearward).

Glazing: windscreens must be free of damage in the driver's critical vision area; cracks and chips outside that area are assessed against size and position limits.

Seat belts and anchorages must be present, functional, and undamaged; retrofitted belts must meet approved standards.

Exhaust emissions: petrol vehicles are tested for CO and HC at idle and fast idle where applicable; diesel vehicles are assessed for visible smoke.

Steering and suspension components must have no excessive play, and no component may be cracked, bent, or excessively worn.

Vehicle dimensions, gross vehicle mass, and axle loads must not exceed the limits recorded on the vehicle's registration or the applicable standard.

Inspecting organisations must hold a current approval from the transport authority; approval can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance.

Inspectors must hold the appropriate authorisation for the vehicle classes they inspect and must not inspect vehicles they have a conflict of interest in.

Inspectors must use approved equipment that is calibrated and within its calibration validity period at the time of inspection.

An inspector who issues a warrant for a vehicle that does not meet the standard may face suspension, revocation, and civil or criminal liability.

Inspection records must be retained for the period specified by the authority and made available on request for audit.

Inspectors must record all defects found, even if the vehicle ultimately passes after rectification.

Inspecting organisations must maintain a quality management system and undergo periodic audits by the authority.

An inspector must not issue a warrant where the vehicle identity cannot be verified or where the odometer reading is inconsistent with the vehicle's history.

All motor vehicles used on public roads must be registered and licensed; driving an unregistered or unlicensed vehicle is an offence.

Registration is continuous; licensing is periodic (usually 12 months) and a licence label or electronic record must be current.

Road user charges (RUC) apply to diesel vehicles and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass; petrol vehicles pay through fuel excise instead.

RUC is purchased in advance in units of 1,000 km; operating beyond the purchased distance is an offence and attracts penalties.

RUC licence labels must be displayed as required, and the distance recorder (odometer or hubometer) must be accurate and functional.

Exemption from RUC applies to certain vehicles such as those powered solely by petrol or those in specified exempt categories.

Registration can be cancelled only in specified circumstances, such as vehicle destruction or permanent removal from New Zealand roads.

Vehicle licensing fees include the licence fee, ACC levy, and any applicable RUC; failure to pay can result in the licence not being issued.

A vehicle must display a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness in addition to being registered and licensed.

WoF is the periodic safety inspection for light vehicles; CoF applies to heavy vehicles and specified vehicles such as passenger service vehicles, rental, and trade vehicles.

WoF inspection frequency: first inspection by the third anniversary of first registration, then annually until the vehicle is 14 years old, then every 6 months.

CoF frequency: generally every 6 months; certain heavy vehicles may be inspected every 12 months where the operator holds an approved inspection programme.

A WoF/CoF certifies the vehicle met the required standard at the time of inspection only; it is not a warranty of continued roadworthiness.

Inspection outcomes: pass (new warrant issued), fail (defects recorded, vehicle may not be operated except to a permitted destination), or pass subject to minor corrective action where allowed.

The inspection record must identify the vehicle, the inspector, date, odometer reading, and any defects found; records are retained and available for audit.

A vehicle presented with a current warrant that has been modified outside permitted standards may be failed and the modification recorded as a defect.

Corrosion, structural damage, brake performance, steering, tyres, lighting, glazing, and seat restraints are core inspection areas for both WoF and CoF.

A new warrant is issued only after all recorded defects are rectified and re-inspected or verified by an authorised person.

Tyre minimum tread depth for cars and light vehicles is 1.5 mm across the full width of the tread; heavy vehicle tyres require 1.5 mm as well but with additional load and condition checks.

Tyres must be free of cuts, bulges, exposed cords, and must be correctly matched in size and construction on the same axle where required.

Brake performance is assessed by roller brake test or decelerometer; service brake and park brake must meet the minimum efficiency thresholds for the vehicle class.

Lighting: headlamps must be correctly aimed, all lamps must operate, and no lamp may show a colour other than that prescribed (white/amber forward, red rearward).

Glazing: windscreens must be free of damage in the driver's critical vision area; cracks and chips outside that area are assessed against size and position limits.

Seat belts and anchorages must be present, functional, and undamaged; retrofitted belts must meet approved standards.

Exhaust emissions: petrol vehicles are tested for CO and HC at idle and fast idle where applicable; diesel vehicles are assessed for visible smoke.

Steering and suspension components must have no excessive play, and no component may be cracked, bent, or excessively worn.

Vehicle dimensions, gross vehicle mass, and axle loads must not exceed the limits recorded on the vehicle's registration or the applicable standard.

Inspecting organisations must hold a current approval from the transport authority; approval can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance.

Inspectors must hold the appropriate authorisation for the vehicle classes they inspect and must not inspect vehicles they have a conflict of interest in.

Inspectors must use approved equipment that is calibrated and within its calibration validity period at the time of inspection.

An inspector who issues a warrant for a vehicle that does not meet the standard may face suspension, revocation, and civil or criminal liability.

Inspection records must be retained for the period specified by the authority and made available on request for audit.

Inspectors must record all defects found, even if the vehicle ultimately passes after rectification.

Inspecting organisations must maintain a quality management system and undergo periodic audits by the authority.

An inspector must not issue a warrant where the vehicle identity cannot be verified or where the odometer reading is inconsistent with the vehicle's history.

All motor vehicles used on public roads must be registered and licensed; driving an unregistered or unlicensed vehicle is an offence.

Registration is continuous; licensing is periodic (usually 12 months) and a licence label or electronic record must be current.

Road user charges (RUC) apply to diesel vehicles and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass; petrol vehicles pay through fuel excise instead.

RUC is purchased in advance in units of 1,000 km; operating beyond the purchased distance is an offence and attracts penalties.

RUC licence labels must be displayed as required, and the distance recorder (odometer or hubometer) must be accurate and functional.

Exemption from RUC applies to certain vehicles such as those powered solely by petrol or those in specified exempt categories.

Registration can be cancelled only in specified circumstances, such as vehicle destruction or permanent removal from New Zealand roads.

Vehicle licensing fees include the licence fee, ACC levy, and any applicable RUC; failure to pay can result in the licence not being issued.

A vehicle must display a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness in addition to being registered and licensed.

WoF is the periodic safety inspection for light vehicles; CoF applies to heavy vehicles and specified vehicles such as passenger service vehicles, rental, and trade vehicles.

WoF inspection frequency: first inspection by the third anniversary of first registration, then annually until the vehicle is 14 years old, then every 6 months.

CoF frequency: generally every 6 months; certain heavy vehicles may be inspected every 12 months where the operator holds an approved inspection programme.

A WoF/CoF certifies the vehicle met the required standard at the time of inspection only; it is not a warranty of continued roadworthiness.

Inspection outcomes: pass (new warrant issued), fail (defects recorded, vehicle may not be operated except to a permitted destination), or pass subject to minor corrective action where allowed.

The inspection record must identify the vehicle, the inspector, date, odometer reading, and any defects found; records are retained and available for audit.

A vehicle presented with a current warrant that has been modified outside permitted standards may be failed and the modification recorded as a defect.

Corrosion, structural damage, brake performance, steering, tyres, lighting, glazing, and seat restraints are core inspection areas for both WoF and CoF.

A new warrant is issued only after all recorded defects are rectified and re-inspected or verified by an authorised person.

Tyre minimum tread depth for cars and light vehicles is 1.5 mm across the full width of the tread; heavy vehicle tyres require 1.5 mm as well but with additional load and condition checks.

Tyres must be free of cuts, bulges, exposed cords, and must be correctly matched in size and construction on the same axle where required.

Brake performance is assessed by roller brake test or decelerometer; service brake and park brake must meet the minimum efficiency thresholds for the vehicle class.

Lighting: headlamps must be correctly aimed, all lamps must operate, and no lamp may show a colour other than that prescribed (white/amber forward, red rearward).

Glazing: windscreens must be free of damage in the driver's critical vision area; cracks and chips outside that area are assessed against size and position limits.

Seat belts and anchorages must be present, functional, and undamaged; retrofitted belts must meet approved standards.

Exhaust emissions: petrol vehicles are tested for CO and HC at idle and fast idle where applicable; diesel vehicles are assessed for visible smoke.

Steering and suspension components must have no excessive play, and no component may be cracked, bent, or excessively worn.

Vehicle dimensions, gross vehicle mass, and axle loads must not exceed the limits recorded on the vehicle's registration or the applicable standard.

Inspecting organisations must hold a current approval from the transport authority; approval can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance.

Inspectors must hold the appropriate authorisation for the vehicle classes they inspect and must not inspect vehicles they have a conflict of interest in.

Inspectors must use approved equipment that is calibrated and within its calibration validity period at the time of inspection.

An inspector who issues a warrant for a vehicle that does not meet the standard may face suspension, revocation, and civil or criminal liability.

Inspection records must be retained for the period specified by the authority and made available on request for audit.

Inspectors must record all defects found, even if the vehicle ultimately passes after rectification.

Inspecting organisations must maintain a quality management system and undergo periodic audits by the authority.

An inspector must not issue a warrant where the vehicle identity cannot be verified or where the odometer reading is inconsistent with the vehicle's history.

All motor vehicles used on public roads must be registered and licensed; driving an unregistered or unlicensed vehicle is an offence.

Registration is continuous; licensing is periodic (usually 12 months) and a licence label or electronic record must be current.

Road user charges (RUC) apply to diesel vehicles and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass; petrol vehicles pay through fuel excise instead.

RUC is purchased in advance in units of 1,000 km; operating beyond the purchased distance is an offence and attracts penalties.

RUC licence labels must be displayed as required, and the distance recorder (odometer or hubometer) must be accurate and functional.

Exemption from RUC applies to certain vehicles such as those powered solely by petrol or those in specified exempt categories.

Registration can be cancelled only in specified circumstances, such as vehicle destruction or permanent removal from New Zealand roads.

Vehicle licensing fees include the licence fee, ACC levy, and any applicable RUC; failure to pay can result in the licence not being issued.

A vehicle must display a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness in addition to being registered and licensed.