Roadworthiness requirements - VicRoads
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Vehicle Standards Information 26
June 2021 This information sheet supersedes
all previous copies of VSI 26.
Roadworthiness requirements
This Vehicle Standards Part 1: Introduction would be required to comply with
in a new and unaltered condition,
Information Sheet New vehicles are manufactured to
comply with a number of standards,
as per the standards for registration
constitutes the written notably the Australian Design Rules
applicable at the date of manufacture
of the vehicle. The requirements have
directions to Licensed (ADRs) and various industry and
consumer requirements, which
been limited to items which relate
Vehicle Testers given ensure that the vehicles achieve a
to safety and compliance and which
lend themselves to detection by
by VicRoads under certain level of safety, environmental
inspection.
harmony and serviceability. During
Regulation 212 of the their use, vehicles are subject to wear A certificate of roadworthiness issued
Road Safety (Vehicles) and tear and can be altered from their by a licensed tester is certification
original form and in some cases this that at the time of inspection a
Interim Regulations can become a hazard to road users vehicle meets the requirements in this
2020. Licensed and others. Although the owner of document and is fit for use on the
a vehicle is responsible for keeping
Vehicle Testers must the vehicle in a safe and roadworthy
road. A certificate of roadworthiness
is not an inspection of the mechanical
ensure that a vehicle condition at all times, roadworthiness quality, reliability or cosmetic aspects
meets these standards testing is undertaken to help minimise
the possible hazard to road users,
of the vehicle.
before a Certificate including buyers of used vehicles
A Licensed Vehicle Tester must
ensure that vehicles are examined
of Roadworthiness where the vehicle may be in a
potentially harmful condition, often
in respect of the appropriate
is issued. without the owner being aware of it.
standards in this document, applying
normal industry standards and test
This information sheet applies The roadworthiness standards set procedures. The tester must also
to vehicles with a Gross Vehicle out in this document are aimed take into consideration any relevant
Mass (GVM) of 4.5 tonne or less. at detecting any excessive wear, information including manufacturer’s
For heavy vehicle requirements deterioration, or alterations that specifications, an approval certificate
could adversely affect the safety issued by a member of the Vehicle
please refer to the National
of the vehicle, its compliance with Assessment Signatory Scheme
Heavy Vehicle Regulator website the standards for registration, and (VASS) or testing authorities, and
at nhvr.gov.au. For motorcycle the ADRs where the items can be various guidelines, such as VicRoads’
and moped requirements please assessed by inspection. VSI sheets, and other information
refer to Vehicle Standards provided by VicRoads in assessing
Compliance with certain elements of
Information (VSI) 4 Summary whether or not the vehicle meets the
ADR and regulatory requirements are
of standards for registration criteria provided. The standards in this
established by ensuring that parts of
requirements for motorcycles the vehicle which cannot be tested
document may be overridden by this
and mopeds. information in some circumstances.
for compliance in a roadworthiness
inspection such as crumple zones, Part 3 of this document contains
airbags and emissions equipment sections dealing with various aspects
are not modified or tampered with of vehicle safety and environmental
in any way. requirements. Some of these will only
apply to certain vehicles and should
It is also important to note that the
be disregarded where they do not
roadworthiness requirements cannot
apply. There will also be a number
be used to impose more stringent
of vehicles that are exempt from
requirements on a vehicle than it
vicroads.vic.gov.ausome requirements under conditional examined. Accordingly, the fee can mudguards when viewed (from
registration or permit procedures. In vary significantly, and it is wise to seek above). Wheels and tyres must not
these examples these standards need a quote for the cost of the inspection contact any part of the vehicle under
not be checked. before you authorise the inspection any combination of steering and/or
to take place. suspension movement.
The information provided in other
VSIs prepared by VicRoads may be A certificate of roadworthiness Wheel studs and nuts
of assistance when interpreting the is current, for the purposes of a The wheels must be securely attached
requirements in this document. transaction, for 30 days from the with the correct number and type of
date of issue. nuts or bolts. Stud or bolt holes, and
Part 2: Certificate of
any locating washers, must not be
Roadworthiness Part 3: General inspection
expanded or elongated, and all wheel
In Victoria, a Certificate of standards for roadworthiness test
and retainer tapers must match. All
Roadworthiness is generally required Section A studs must be securely fitted and
when a vehicle is sold or Wheels and tyres engage for at least the same thread
re-registered, or as part of a length as provided originally by the
Wheels
mandatory periodic inspection vehicle manufacturer.
requirement for a bus or taxi. There is no requirement for a spare
wheel to be carried on a vehicle and Track width
A Certificate of Roadworthiness is the standards for registration exclude The track measured to the centre
also required after a Vehicle Identity wheels not normally used in service of the tyre treads must not exceed
Validation inspection on a repairable from any requirements. However, the original specification by more
write off vehicle. where a spare wheel is carried it must than that specified for that type of
In some cases, a Certificate of be securely retained in or on the suspension in VSI 8. However, for
Roadworthiness is required to clear vehicle. vehicles fitted with diagonally split
a Vehicle Defect Notice. braking systems, there must be no
All road wheels and rims must be free
change in front or rear track from the
A Certificate of Roadworthiness can of cracks or any other type of damage
original specification.
only be issued by a Licensed Vehicle likely to cause failure of the wheel,
Tester operating from an approved rim or tyre. The wheel/rim must not Hub/rim spacers are unacceptable
facility such as a garage or service be bent or buckled or excessively out unless specified by the vehicle
station. of balance. In the case of a passenger manufacturer.
car, any replacement wheel/rim
Before a Certificate of Tyres
must comply with the applicable
Roadworthiness can be issued for a requirements in VSI 8 Guide to All tyres fitted to the road wheels of a
vehicle, the vehicle must be inspected Modifications for Motor Vehicles vehicle, must be of a type constructed
and found to be within manufacturers unless a VASS approval certificate is and certified for normal road use.
specifications, free of excessive wear, supplied for that modification. Except at the tread wear indicators,
severe deterioration and alterations tyres must have a minimum tread
that would make it unsafe for normal A Certificate of Roadworthiness must depth of 1.5mm in all principal
use on the road. not be issued for a vehicle which has grooves.
a temporary use spare tyre fitted to
A roadworthiness inspection is not a one or more road wheels. The principal grooves are the wide
check of the mechanical reliability or grooves that are usually positioned in
general condition of the vehicle. If a Alloy wheels must bear the the central zone of the tyre but may
comprehensive check of the overall appropriate standards mark as run across the tread.
condition of the vehicle is required, specified in VSI 8.
Tread wear indicators are usually
you should arrange for a separate On wire-spoked wheels, all spokes located in the principal grooves of
independent report. must be intact, straight, fitted the tyre and indicate the degree of
A roadworthiness inspection is and laced correctly and properly tyre tread wear. Where tread wear
also not a complete assessment tensioned. indicators are provided, the tread
of a vehicle’s compliance with the Welds on steel wheels must be of must not be worn to the extent that
standards for registration which, in good quality and free of defects. any tread wear indicator contacts the
most cases, are the Australian Design Widened wheels must have no road surface.
Rules (ADRs). more than one peripheral weld. A tyre can be considered roadworthy
The ADRs are a set of minimum Welds or any other type of repair if there is less than 1.5mm of tread
standards for the construction on wholly cast wheels or cast in the secondary grooves, which are
of motor vehicles and trailers. In structural components of wheels are typically shallower than the principal
most cases, compliance with these not acceptable. Chromed wheels grooves and may disappear during
standards cannot be assessed by other than those chromed during the life of the tyre.
inspection alone. the manufacturing process are not
acceptable. A tyre must not have uneven wear
The cost of obtaining a Certificate across its width such that an edge
of Roadworthiness will depend on a When in the straight ahead position, of the tyre is significantly more
variety of items such as the age, type the wheels and tyres must not project worn than the remainder of the tyre
and condition of the vehicle being beyond the extreme width of the surface.The tyres must not be regrooved Section B Shock absorbers and struts must
unless they are of a type marked by Steering and suspension be securely mounted, function
the manufacturer as being suitable for effectively and be free of leaks.
General
regrooving. Dampness or staining around seals is
The vehicle steering and suspension acceptable.
Tyre sizes must be compatible with system must be free from wear or
rim sizes as set out by the Tyre and play exceeding the manufacturer’s The auto levelling function must
Rim Association. limits and the vehicle must track operate on hydraulic or air suspension
satisfactorily without undue wander. systems.
The tyres and rims must be of the
same dimensions when along the All steering components, including Modified suspensions must comply
same axle (i.e. both tyres and rims at dust and grease seals, must be with the relevant sections of VSI 8.
the front of the vehicle must be of the in good condition, securely and
same dimensions, and both tyres and Section C
correctly mounted, and free from
rims at the back of the vehicle must damage and excessive wear or worn Brakes
be of the same dimensions). beyond manufacturers specifications. General
The tyres should also be checked to All brake components must function
All nuts, bolts and other fasteners
ensure they are free from any deep correctly, be securely mounted,
used on steering components must
cuts, cracks, bulges or any other appropriately located and free from
be secure and fitted with appropriate
damage or defects likely to cause distortion or damage likely to cause
retaining or locking devices where
failure of the tyre. failure, malfunction or uneven
necessary. All fasteners must have at
application or wear outside of that
For vehicles fitted with passenger least the same thread engagement as
specified by the manufacturer.
car tyres and manufactured after when new. There must be no binding
1 January 1973, all tyres fitted to the in the steering system as the steering Brake hoses and piping must be of an
road wheels must be of the same wheel is turned from lock to lock. appropriate material and specification,
carcass construction (i.e. radial ply, adequately supported and free from
Steering wheels
cross ply, bias belted, run-flats etc.), damage.
All safety features installed by
but may have a different tread pattern. the manufacturer at the time of Hydraulic systems must be filled to
Repairs to the sidewall or shoulder compliance must be present and the appropriate level and all pipes,
areas on radial ply passenger car tyres operational. Steering wheel to be hoses, cylinders and reservoirs must
are not acceptable. aligned correctly in the straight- be free from leaks and apparent
ahead position. Steering wheel rims, contamination. However, brake fluid
The load rating of tyres on vehicles knobs and other devices, which have dampness behind cylinder boots is
subject to ADRs must be at least deteriorated to an extent that they are acceptable and alone should not be a
equivalent to the minimum ratings hazardous, are unacceptable. Steering cause for rejection.
shown on the tyre placard. wheel covers, including padded Air systems, including trailer brake
The speed rating of the fitted tyre impact protection, if fitted, must be connections, where fitted, must be
casing must be, at a minimum, the secure. free from leaks. Compressors must
lesser of: Power steering be properly mounted and aligned
∞ 140km/h for a passenger car with Any power steering pump or with drive belts in good condition and
special features for off-road use associated components must correctly tensioned.
such as 4WD function and be securely mounted. Air compressors must be capable of
∞ 180km/h for any other passenger Hoses, pipes and drive belts, etc. must rapid build up, recovery and working
car not foul any other components in a pressure maintenance. Air tanks and
manner likely to cause failure. other valves and components must
∞ 120km/h for any other motor
vehicle not described above All fittings must be free of oil leaks, be free of contamination, including
however, dampness or staining excessive oil build up, which may
∞ the vehicle’s top speed. adversely affect their operation.
around seals is acceptable. The
All pneumatic tyres not marked reservoir must be correctly filled. Brake linings
“Tubeless” must be fitted with a Suspension Lining material must not be worn
tube, and all retreaded tyres must be down to the wear indicators where
All suspension components must be
marked with the identification of the they are provided. Where no wear
properly mounted and aligned with
retreader and the word “Retreaded” indicators are provided, the minimum
no distortion, cracks, fractures or
and any other markings required by remaining useable thickness of lining
other damage likely to cause failure
the relevant Australian Standard. material measured at any point on
or instability. There must be adequate
Refer to VSI 8 and VSI 16 Tyre clearance between components the lining must be no less than the
Maintenance and Repair for more and the vehicle body, and all joints, vehicle manufacturer’s minimum
information on wheels and tyres. bushes, pivots, dust and grease seals, recommended thickness and where
wheel bearings and mountings must no manufacturer’s instructions are
be in good condition. provided must be no less than 1.0mm.
Brake lining materials must not be
contaminated.Brake discs and drums Table 2. Minimum Braking Section D
The thickness of the friction Performance of Emergency Brakes Seats and seatbelts
section of a brake disc or the Vehicle Max. Min. average Min. peak Seats
internal diameter of a brake drum type by stopping deceleration deceleration
The driver’s seat assembly must be
must be within the manufacturer’s GVM distance from any from any
from legal speed legal speed free from any defects which may
specifications. Light circumferential
35km/h impair the driver’s ability to safely
scoring is acceptable on friction
Vehicles 30.5m 1.6 m/s2 1.9 m/s2 control the vehicle.
surfaces providing it does not affect
under 2.5 (0.16 g) (0.19 g)
the operation or durability of the tonnes All seats and backrests must be
brake system. GVM secure, free of structural damage
and/or defects, sharp and/or jagged
Stopping performance Vehicles 40.5m 1.1 m/s2 1.5 m/s2
2.5 to 4.5 (0.11 g) (0.15 g) edges or protrusions, which could
Vehicle service brakes must function tonnes be hazardous. Any padding originally
correctly and with one sustained GVM provided on the seat must be present,
application of the service brakes, securely held in position on the
under normal operation and Parking brake seat structure, not expose the seat
application conditions, on a dry The parking brake of a vehicle or structure and be in a good condition
smooth level surface free from loose combination must be able to hold the free from improper repairs.
material, be capable of: vehicle or combination stationary on
Unless evidence is produced that a
∞ stopping the vehicle within the a 12% gradient:
vehicle is registered with reduced
distances specified in Table 1 ∞ when the vehicle or combination is seating capacity, all seating positions
∞ achieving the deceleration rates on a dry, smooth road surface, free must be complete and present at the
specified in Table 1. from loose material; and time of inspection. A motorhome
∞ whether or not the vehicle or seating plan can be classified as
Table 1. Minimum braking
combination is loaded. evidence of reduced seating capacity.
performance of service brakes
Warning devices Seat slides and other control
Vehicle Max. Min. average Min. peak
mechanisms used for adjustment of
type by stopping deceleration deceleration Any audible or visible warning devices
GVM distance from any from any the seat and will affect the occupant’s
fitted must be properly mounted and
from legal speed legal speed seated position must be functional,
35km/h function correctly.
have no abnormal looseness, and be
Vehicles 12.5m 3.8 m/s2 5.8 m/s2 Other brakes and equipment effective in the release and locking
under 2.5 (0.39 g) (0.59 g) actions. Optional mechanisms such
tonnes Where required, trailer breakaway
GVM brakes must be fitted and operational. as lumbar adjustments need not
function, providing they do not
Vehicles 16.5m 2.8 m/s2 4.4 m/s2 Where a motor vehicle is fitted with interfere with seat security, or the
2.5 to 4.5 (0.29 g) (0.45 g)
vacuum assisted or air operated driver’s control of the vehicle. Where
tonnes
GVM brakes and that vehicle is equipped provided, head restraints must be
to tow a trailer or a semi trailer, the secure and free of structural damage
The application of the brakes must motor vehicle must be equipped and/or defects.
not cause the vehicle, when travelling with a means for providing that, if
in the centre of a 3.7m wide lane, to the trailer or semi trailer breaks away, Seats equipped with airbags in
project outside that lane. the brakes of the motor vehicle are accordance with manufacturers
capable of stopping the motor vehicle requirements. Where seat covers are
Vehicle parking and emergency fitted on seats with airbags, they must
within the appropriate distance
brakes must function correctly. be of a type approved for that seat so
specified in Table 2.
Parking brakes must be capable as not to restrict the deployment of
of holding the vehicle stationary ABS and ESC (or EBS for trailers) the seat mounted airbag.
on any up or down grade found Where ABS or ESC (or EBS for trailers)
on highways. Seatbelts
is fitted on a vehicle as standard, it
must operate correctly. A fault with Seatbelts must be present as specified
Emergency brakes, including in VSI 21 Summary of Seatbelts and
parking brakes intended to provide the operation of these systems is
determined by the presence of a Child Restraint Fitting Requirements.
emergency braking such as those
on vehicles, which do not have split warning light. All seatbelts must comply with
system service brakes or are not the appropriate seatbelt standard
subject to ADR 31 or ADR 35 must and where initially fitted by the
be capable of either: manufacturer for ADR compliance,
the seatbelts must be original
∞ stopping the vehicle on a dry equipment or appropriate
smooth surface free from loose replacement parts.
material, within the distances
specified in Table 2 Seatbelts must be appropriately and
securely fitted with the appropriate
∞ achieving the deceleration rate
hardware and be accessible, and all
specified in Table 2.
components, including retractorswhere fitted, must function correctly. Vehicles must not be fitted with lights lighting may be allowed to fit the
Seatbelt webbing must be firmly or reflectors not required or permitted lighting under conditional registration
secured to its end fittings and must by the standards for registration or provisions.
not be damaged, cut, knotted or the ADRs.
Refer to VSI 12 Flashing lights, Other
frayed. Repairs or modifications of any
All lamps that are required under the Lights and Reflectors for more
kind to webbing, buckles, retractors
standards applicable at the time of information.
or other seatbelt components are
manufacture must be operational.
not permitted. Seatbelts that have Section F
been melted or repaired with heat are All lamps fitted to a vehicle, including Exhaust and emission control
prohibited. any optional lamps, but excluding
General
undipped headlamps and ancillary
Where present, pretensioners must be The exhaust system of a vehicle must
driving lamps, must be fitted with
in operational condition. Any indicators not pass through the cabin or any
lenses or otherwise shielded so that
of faulty or deployed pretensioners passenger area and must be free of
the light emitted does not cause
including an SRS warning light, leaks. Condensation drain holes are
glare. All lenses must be of the
locked seatbelt retractors or retracted not leaks.
correct colour, not substantially faded
seatbelt buckles are unacceptable.
and must be clean on the inside and The exhaust system must be fitted
Refer to VSI 21 for more information free of any damage, which would with an effective silencing device and
on seatbelts. permit dust or water to enter the all exhaust gases must pass through
lamp. Headlamp reflectors must be in the device.
Section E good condition.
Lamps, signals, reflectors etc. All mountings must be secure and the
Where fitted, driving lamps or LED exhaust system must have adequate
General
light bars must only be able to be clearance between all other parts of
Lighting requirements (lamps, activated when the high beams are on the vehicle and the road.
reflectors and marking plates) vary and must turn off if high beams are
substantially with the type of vehicle turned off. Unshielded parts of an exhaust
and its date of manufacture. system, other than the outlet, must
The presence of minor condensation not protrude beyond the profile of the
For newer vehicles and optionally on semi sealed lamps is acceptable. vehicle other than on the underside.
for older vehicles, details of the
All lamps must be securely mounted The outlet must be located so as to
requirements together with the type,
and correctly orientated. avoid direct entry of gases into the
number, location, colour, operation
passenger compartment and must not
adjustment of lamps and reflectors
extend beyond the plan of the vehicle.
are set out in the Third Edition ADRs
and the Road Safety (Vehicles) Interim Note Refer to VSI 8 for more information
Regulations 2020. Alternatively, for on exhausts.
vehicles not required to meet the Applicable vehicles are required
to comply with ADR 13, ADR Vehicles manufactured to comply with
Third Edition ADRs, the requirements
19 and provisions within the emission control ADRs must have all
specified in the standards for
Road Safety (Vehicles) Interim pipes, hoses, valves, sensors, fuel and
registration for that particular type of
Regulations 2020. air control devices, catalytic converters
vehicle must be applied.
and any other emission control
Generally, all motor vehicles must equipment originally fitted by the
be fitted with functional headlamps, Warning lamps/telltale lamps vehicle manufacturer properly located
stop lamps, front and rear position and connected and not apparently
All mandatory internal warning lamps,
(parking) lamps, a number plate lamp damaged, deteriorated or altered in
including the airbag check lamp
and turn signal lamps emitting light of any way so as to appear ineffective.
where fitted, must function correctly.
the specified colour. All other vehicles
On passenger vehicles manufactured
(trailers etc.) require rear position Reflectors
from 1 January 1986, no
lamps, stop lamps, a number plate Reflectors must be functional, of the modifications are permitted from
lamp and turn signal lamps. correct colour and securely mounted. the clean side of the intake air
In addition to these lamps, a number Rear marking plates must not be faded filter through to the last catalytic
of other lamps such as work lamps, or deteriorated and must be of the converter or particulate filter in the
auxiliary driving lamps, LED light correct type and correctly located. exhaust system, unless modified in
bars, front and rear fog lamps, accordance with VSI 8.
reversing lamps, external cabin lamps, Additional Lighting
Some vehicles, due to the nature Dual fuelled vehicles must retain any
clearance lamps, marker lamps,
of their use, require additional or emission control equipment fitted
daytime running lamps and front
special lighting or lighting located to enable them to meet emission
lamps on sidecars are either required
in non-complying positions. These requirements while operating on
or permitted. While the vehicle is
vehicles will usually belong to Police, petrol. However, allowances are made
being driven on the road there shall
Emergency, Road Maintenance for minor air cleaner and carburettor
be no visible red light to the front or
or other similar organisations. modifications required to fit the
visible white light to the rear. Hazard
Other vehicles owned by private conversion. The heated air intake
warning lamps are required on certain
organisations requiring special system can be removed and the air
buses and late model vehicles.cleaner replaced with one to suit the ∞ in the case of a laminated Any tinting applied to the windows
LPG conversion. windscreen, it has any crack that of a vehicle after it has been
penetrates more than one layer of manufactured must comply with
For vehicles fitted with a four-stroke
glass the requirements specified in VSI 2
engine, exhaust emissions (except
∞ in the case of a laminated Window Tinting.
for water vapour) must not be visible
to the naked eye for more than 10 windscreen, it has one or more Primary Vision Area
seconds under normal operating bulls eyes or star fractures over For cars and other light vehicles,
conditions. When running, the 16mm in diameter or one or more the primary vision area can be
engine must not discharge excessive cracks over 150mm in length in a approximated by excluding the area
crankcase fumes, and where single layer of glass within the area above the wiper arc or the top 10%
crankcase ventilation equipment is wiped by the windscreen wiper(s). of the windscreen, whichever is the
fitted, it must be secure and leak free. One or more bulls eyes or star greater.
fractures up to 16mm in diameter
Crankcase ventilation recirculation and cracks up to 150mm in length Section H
equipment is required on petrol in a single layer of glass within Windscreen Wipers, Washers and
engine vehicles (other than the area wiped by the windscreen Demisters.
motorcycles) built from 1 January wiper(s) are allowable provided
1972. General
that they do not impair the driver’s
All motor vehicles (except
Nitrous oxide injection systems must vision to the extent that the vehicle
motorcycles) fitted with a windscreen
not be fitted. This prohibition includes cannot be driven safely.
must be fitted with an effective
a partial installation or a disconnectable windscreen wiper system. If
nitrous oxide system that is fitted to Side windows that are scratched or
otherwise damaged to the extent manufactured before 1960 then
the vehicle ready for use. the wiper need only be fitted to the
that the driver’s vision is so impaired
Exhaust Particulate Filter that the vehicle cannot be driven driver’s side. On vehicles where the
Where a motor vehicle has been safely should also be rejected. Where windscreen is such that a driver, in the
manufactured with a Diesel signalling devices are not provided, the normal driving position, can obtain
Particulate Filter (DPF) or Gasoline driver’s side window must be capable adequate vision of the roadway ahead
Particulate Filter (GPF) it must not be of being opened or some other means by looking over the top, below or to a
removed or rendered inoperable. provided to give hand signals. side of the windscreen, a windscreen
wiper system is not required.
Section G Repairs and obstructions to view
If the vehicle is required by the
Windscreen and windows In a repaired windscreen a faint
standards or the ADRs to have a
outline of the repaired damage or in
General windscreen washer system then
some cases a slightly dull spot may
All glazing used in motor vehicles the system must be fitted and work
be visible where the repair has been
built after June 1953 is to be safety effectively.
performed. A repaired crack may
glass or other approved material. The also be detectable by a fine hairline All motor vehicles manufactured
glazing that is necessary to allow the surface mark. These are acceptable on or after 1 September 1966
driver to see the road and other road and should not be rejected during and required to be fitted with a
users is not to be damaged or altered a roadworthy test providing the rest windscreen wiper system must also
to the extent that it prevents the of the windscreen complies with the be fitted with an effective windscreen
vehicle being used safely. requirements as set out in this section. washer system.
At least half the number of windows Apart from any pillar or other part of Both the windscreen wiper system
must be openable or the vehicle the vehicle’s structure or fittings, there and the windscreen washer system
must be provided with an alternative must be no internal obstructions to a must be capable of being operated
method of ventilation. driver’s view through the swept area by the driver from the normal driving
Wear or damage of the windscreen, to the right of the position.
During the service life of a vehicle, the driver’s position or 60° to the left of
the driver’s position, except for the All components of both systems
windscreen and windows may incur must be secure, functional and not
various types of damage. Testers are area outside the primary vision area.
excessively worn. Windscreen wiper
advised that deterioration from the Tinting requirements blades must only sweep over the
‘as new’ condition is allowable and The primary vision area of the windscreen glass and not contact any
a windscreen or window with minor windscreen of a vehicle may be lightly other component to an extent which
damage should not be rejected. tinted to achieve a light transmittance could affect their performance while
A windscreen should only be rejected of no less than 75% if the vehicle in operation.
if: was manufactured from 1 January
Windscreen washer jets must be
∞ it is discoloured, badly scratched, 1972, or 70% if manufactured earlier.
correctly aimed.
fractured or chipped within the Tinting in the primary vision area must
have been incorporated during the Rear windscreen wipers need not be
area wiped by the windscreen
manufacture of the windscreen and operational.
wiper(s) to the extent that the
driver’s vision is so impaired that not by coating or tint films added
the vehicle cannot be driven safely afterwards.Windscreen Demisters All latches and secondary latches on all to cause failure. All electrical wiring,
Vehicles required to comply with doors giving access to the passenger connectors, couplings, flexible pipes,
demisting provisions must have the areas must function correctly and etc associated with a device for
necessary equipment present and secure the doors and allow them to coupling a trailer to a motor vehicle
operational. Demisters were required be readily opened in an emergency. must be in good condition.
on passenger vehicles built from 1971 Wheelguards (mudguards) Where the coupling manufacturer
onwards and were required on other has specified a wear limit the coupler
Effective wheel guards must be
vehicle types in subsequent years as must be within this wear limit.
fitted for all wheels on all vehicles
per the relevant ADR.
except front wheels on mopeds and Bonnet scoops
Section I motorcycles manufactured before 1
The shape of the scoop must comply
Body and chassis July 1988. Wheel guards may include
with the requirements of Vehicle
parts of bodywork, etc.
General Standards Bulletin 14 (VSB 14). The
The structural components of all Mud guards must extend to within driver’s vision requirements specified
vehicles must be sound and free 230mm of ground level on all vehicles in VSI 29 Drivers Field of View
from cracks, damage, faulty repairs with four or more wheels or within Requirements must be met.
or modifications, rust, deterioration, 300mm of ground level on off-road
Wheelchair accommodation, hoist
distortion or any other condition vehicles.
and ramps
which could lead to structural failure Mudflaps are not normally required Every wheelchair position, hoist and
of the vehicle or adversely affect the on passenger car type vehicles as ramp provided, must be securely
performance of safety related features. bodywork serves the mud guard mounted, in good condition and not
The body and fittings of all vehicles function. However, mudflaps must be present a danger to passengers and
must be free from any damage, which in place on vehicles where they form equipment operators. All roll stops
might increase the risk or severity of part of the wheel guard system such for hoists and edge barriers for hoists
injury to any occupant, pedestrian as on some motorbikes and vehicles and ramps must be present and in
or other road user. The body must with a tray type body. a serviceable condition. In the fully
also be free of any damage likely Flexible wheel guards or mud flaps raised position there must not be
to allow the entry of exhaust gases must retain their functional position more than 12mm vertical distance
into the passenger area. All seals at when the vehicle is in motion. between the horizontal surface of
body openings necessary to prevent the hoist platform and the horizontal
the entry of exhaust gases into any The tyre section width must be surface of the vehicle entrance
passenger area must seal effectively. covered when the wheels are in the (floor level). The surface of any hoist
straight-ahead position as viewed in or ramp, and standing area for a
Floors including floors in load areas plan (from above). For motorcycles, wheelchair must be skid resistant,
must be free of structural damage sidecars and trikes, guards must cover effective and free of structural
and/or defects. Floors in passenger the tyre section width. damage and/or defects.
areas must be free of loose material
or objects or tears, or incorrectly Relaxed wheel guard provisions may Wheelchair occupant restraints must
fitted matting, or covering likely to apply to some special purpose vehicles. be marked with AS 2942 or 10542
interfere with the driver’s ability to Bumper bars/bull bars compliance markings.
safely operate the vehicle.
Bumper bars and bull bars, where Wheelchair hoists and ramps must
For passenger vehicles fitted with fitted, must be secure and designed be marked as compliant with ‘AS/NZS
airbags, the rail extensions forward of to eliminate sharp corners or 3856 – Hoists and ramps for people
the engine subframe and the vehicle protrusions, which might cause with disabilities – vehicle mounted;
cross car beam (bumper) must be free injury to other road users. They Parts 1 and 2.’
of damage, repairs or modification, must not obscure any lamps, unless
other than those specifically authorised additional lamps are fitted, and must
Section J
by the vehicle manufacturer, due not substantially exceed the normal Engine and driveline
to the risk of compromise to the width of the vehicle body. ADRs and General
vehicle’s crash structure. VicRoads information sheets cover All mountings, brackets and
visibility angles of lamps. Ends of fastenings necessary for the safe
Door latches
bumper bars must turn towards the operation of the vehicle secure and
All doors, boot lid, bonnet, hatch, body to a sufficient extent to avoid within manufacturers specifications
tailgates and any other hinged or any risk of hooking or grazing. where available, free from damage,
removable covers, and all other
Refer to VSI 1 Bull Bars for more excessive wear, or abnormal
attachments to the body both inside
information. deterioration. All shafts, splines,
the passenger area and outside the
universal joints, support bearings,
vehicle must be securely mounted Towing couplings tail shaft guards, and other drive
and located. All latches and latch
Any towbars, eyes, hooks, turntables line components must be in good
mechanisms, hinges and other
or automatic couplings fitted to a condition and free of excessive wear
securing devices including tilt cab
vehicle must be in good condition, or vibration and must be within
latches must be in good condition
secure and not cracked, excessively manufacturer’s specifications.
and effective.
deformed or damaged in a way likelyThe power unit, clutch system, The periodic inspection requirements Horn
transmission system, differentials, axle of Australian Standard 1425 should be All motor vehicles must be fitted with
housings and all associated pipes and used when carrying out a roadworthy one or more effective horns or other
lines must be properly sealed and free inspection on a vehicle fitted with audible warning device, which produces
of dripping or flowing leaks onto the LPG. a steady sound of constant pitch.
roadway, exhaust system or brake
All work conducted on LPG systems Fuel system
friction surfaces. Dampness, weeping or
must be conducted in a workshop Fuel tanks must be securely mounted
staining are acceptable, but fluid leaking
with a current AFSACS agreement in and the fuel system including fuel
from the underside of the vehicle to
place authorised by VicRoads. lines and filler pipes must not project
such an extent that it is likely to drop on
the road surface (if the vehicle is parked Section K beyond the widest part of the vehicle.
or idling stationary) is unacceptable. Other items Additional or replacement fuel tanks
Water condensation drops from air must be at least of an equivalent
Driving Controls
conditioning systems is acceptable. standard to the original tanks and
All driving control pedal faces must
Slipping clutches and automatic have an effective non slip surface or not affect the vehicle’s compliance
transmissions are acceptable so long be covered with a non slip material. with evaporative emissions or other
as it does not impact the safety of the All essential driving controls must provisions.
vehicle. function properly. All fuel lines, vent lines, pumps, valves
Any insulating material in an engine Padding and fittings must be secure, free of
enclosure must be in good condition leaks, adequately protected from
Padding on dashboards, steering
and free from contamination by fuels damage, and must not chafe or rub
wheels and sun visors where originally
or lubricants and there must not be against each other or other parts of
provided must be secure and must
any accumulation of fuel or lubricant the vehicle. No component of the fuel
not have deteriorated to the extent
in engine compartments. system should be mounted within the
that its effectiveness is substantially
occupant space of the vehicle.
Check engine lamp may be reduced.
illuminated if it can be established Fuel filler caps must be secure and
Speedometer
that the fault code does not cause the seal properly. Plastic emergency fuel
Vehicles manufactured from 1 July filler caps are not acceptable.
vehicle to operate in limp mode, have
1988 must be fitted with a functioning
any impact on a safety system or have Electrical wiring
speedometer calibrated in km/h.
any impact on the operation of the
Electrical wiring must be properly
vehicle emissions system. Rear vision mirror
supported at least every 600mm,
Hybrid systems/electric vehicles All motor vehicles must be fitted insulated, protected from chafing
with a rear vision mirror capable of and located to minimise hazards to
If a vehicle is a hybrid vehicle, the
providing a clear view to the rear of vehicle occupants or others.
hybrid batteries must be present and
the vehicle from the normal driving
the hybrid system must function as Battery
position. Any vehicle designed
the manufacture intended. Batteries
primarily for the carriage of goods or All batteries must be adequately
and electrical cabling must comply
any vehicle subject to internal rear supported and secure. In addition,
with the appropriate section of this
vision obstruction must be fitted with if fitted in a luggage or occupant
VSI. All insulation around orange or
external rear vision mirrors on both compartment, the battery must either
high voltage cables must be free of
sides of the vehicle. be of a type that is fully sealed or be
damage and/or defects or beyond
located within a sub-compartment
manufacturers specifications. All rear vision mirrors must be
which is vented to atmosphere
securely and firmly mounted and
LPG equipment outside the vehicle.
capable of appropriate adjustment.
VSI 27 LPG/LNG/CNG conversions The reflective surface must not Vehicles with batteries located
and repairs contains further be cracked or broken nor peeled, in the same way that the vehicle
information regarding LPG tarnished, discoloured or deteriorated manufacturer installed the original
conversions. to such an extent that its effectiveness battery are deemed to comply with
A LPG system fitted to a vehicle is reduced. this requirement, provided the battery
must comply with the requirements is of the same type as the original,
On all vehicles subject to ADR 14,
of the Australian Standard AS and its installation and related
except motorcycles, any internal
1425 applicable at the date of the components are as per the vehicle
vision mirror must be flat. However,
installation. If the date of installation is manufacturer’s specification.
additional curved mirrors may also
not known, the age of the vehicle and be fitted, either independently or Fire extinguishers
LPG tank date stamp may be used in on standard mirrors. If fitted on a Motor homes and caravans subject
determining the date of installation. standard mirror they must not occupy to ADR 44 must have the correct
The LPG system must be free of a substantial part of the reflective number and type of extinguishers
leaks and all components secure and surface of the standard mirror. fitted in an accessible location.
free from damage and deterioration Fire extinguishers should be fully
or beyond the manufacturers maintained and marked as complying
specifications. with the relevant Australian Standard.Visual Display Units (VDU) Where evidence can be provided for body panels necessitating panel
Any Visual Display Unit that is visible the certification of a modification, removal or other means to determine
to the driver from the normal driving inspection may be limited to the the extent of structural deterioration.
position should be rejected if it does safety of the installation. Where
Floors and steps must have a suitable
not: certifiable modifications exist on
non-slip surface.
a vehicle and certification cannot
∞ switch off the visual display while
be established, VASS Signatory Luggage racks
the vehicle is in motion
certification should be sought. Where a bus is fitted with a luggage
∞ function as a driver’s aid while the rack or racks, there must be no
vehicle is in motion Refer to VSI 8 for more information
on modified vehicles. projections that could cause injury to
∞ meet the field of view requirements passengers, and the rack or racks are
as specified in VSI 29. Compliance (identification) plates to be adequately secured and prevent
and VASS Approval Certificates movement of luggage during normal
Examples of driver’s aids: Compliance plates were required on braking and cornering manoeuvres.
∞ closed-circuit television security vehicles manufactured after June
Doors, Emergency Exits and
cameras 1988 as evidence that, at the time of
Warning Devices
first registration, the vehicle complied
∞ dispatch systems Driver controlled doors on buses
with the applicable ADRs. However,
∞ navigational or intelligent highway compliance plates are often damaged, must open and shut correctly when
and vehicle system equipment lost or stolen during the life of the operated from the driver’s position.
∞ rear view screens vehicle. Therefore, the presence of a Emergency exits on buses must be
compliance (identification) plate is not clear of obstruction and must be clearly
∞ ticket-issuing machines
a mandatory requirement for the issue identified, with the method of opening
∞ vehicle monitoring devices. of a certificate of roadworthiness. clearly indicated unless obvious from
Similarly, VASS approval certificates the design. The exits must be capable
Accessories
are generally supplied as evidence at of being readily operated.
Additional equipment fitted to the
the time of registration or change of The warning devices provided on all
interior or exterior of a vehicle
description, that the vehicle complies emergency exits, other than service
must not present an undue risk to
with the applicable standards for doors and breakable glass emergency
occupants or others.
registration. exits, must be present and serviceable.
Optional and non essential
A VASS approval certificate should The warning must be given when the
equipment
only be requested by a Licensed engine is started and/or vehicle is in
Where optional and non essential
Vehicle Tester, when a vehicle motion, if:
equipment is fitted, such as air
modification, which affects handling,
conditioning, rear window demisters, ∞ the primary opening or ejection
structural integrity or compliance
etc, it is not necessary for it to work device is moved
with the standards for registration,
providing it does not adversely ∞ an emergency exit is locked from
does not appear to comply with good
affect the safety of the vehicle or the outside
industry practices, VSI 8 or VSB 14
its compliance with mandatory
as published on the Commonwealth ∞ an emergency door or window is
standards for registration.
Department of Infrastructure, not securely closed.
Motor homes Transport, Regional Development and
All gas and electrical installations Communications (DITRDC) website. The warning device must provide
must be certified to the relevant a visible and audible warning to
Part 4: Buses the driver and must activate with
Australian Standards as specified
in VicRoads’ VSI 5 Conversion of Seats movement of the catch or other
Vehicles to Motor Homes. Any padding originally provided on device securing the emergency
bus seat backs must be present and in exit, not only by movement of the
Modified vehicles good condition. emergency exit itself.
Acceptable modifications to vehicles
Lamps Every service door shall be capable of
fall into two broad categories:
Hazard warning lamps are required on being easily opened from inside and
∞ those covered by guidelines from outside the vehicle when the
published in VicRoads Vehicle certain buses.
vehicle is stationary. Provision to lock
Standards Information sheets Stairwell lighting is required on all the door from outside is permissible,
∞ those which require individual buses with a stairwell structure. provided that the door can always be
approval and thus an approval Body Structure and chassis opened from the inside.
certificate from a VASS.
Where a bus is more than 25 years Fittings
This makes it difficult to determine old, proof of a current acceptable Any guard rail provided for the driver
whether the modification has structural assessment must be must be secure and in a sound
been approved in the context of a provided and sighted by the tester. condition.
roadworthiness inspection. In some buses, extensive corrosion Padding on seatbacks and bars in
may be hidden by inner and outer buses, where originally providedmust be secure and must not have Part 5: Additional inspection Wheelchair and occupant restraints
deteriorated to the extent that its standards for Wheelchair must be free from fraying, tears and
effectiveness is substantially reduced. Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) knots.
Handgrips, rails, straps or stanchions operating as a Commercial All restraints fitted must comply with
on buses must be in a serviceable Passenger Vehicle the applicable Australian/New Zealand
condition and effective. The inspection standards in this standards including ‘AS/NZS 10542
section apply to Wheelchair Parts 1 and 2 Wheelchair tie down and
Fire extinguishers
Accessible Vehicles licensed under occupant-restraint systems’ and any
Buses subject to ADR 44 or ADR 58 requirements contained in ‘AS2942-
must have the correct number and the Commercial Passenger Vehicle
Industry Act 2017. These standards 1994/Amendment 1-1998 Wheelchair
type of extinguishers fitted in an Occupant Restraint Assemblies for
accessible location. Fire extinguishers have been determined by the
Commercial Passenger Vehicles Motor Vehicles, which are not covered
should be fully maintained and in AS/NZS 10542 Parts 1 and 2.
marked as complying with the Victoria.
relevant Australian Standard. Allocated floor space/access for Wheelchair accommodation, hoists
wheelchair positions and ramps
Additional inspection standards
Each wheelchair position (allocated Refer to Section I of Part 3 of this
for buses
floor/ceiling space) must be allocated document.
The inspection standards in this
section apply to Buses subject to the at least 1300mm (length) x 800mm Child restraint anchorages
Bus Safety Regulations 2020 as in (width) x 1500mm (height) as required Child restraint anchorages must be
force from time to time. by the Commonwealth Government’s provided for at least two forward
‘Disability Standards for Accessible facing rear seating positions.
Door interlocks Public Transport’ Anchorages must be the clip type and
Where a bus is fitted with door compliant with the applicable ADRs.
All WAVs must have door entry
interlocks, the interlocks must be
dimensions (i.e. where wheelchairs Fire extinguisher
serviceable.
enter) of at least 1500mm high and
All WAVs must be equipped with a
Internal Mirrors or CCTV 800mm wide.
fully maintained fire extinguisher of at
Internal mirrors or CCTV used to Wheelchair/occupant restraint least 20B rating. It must be securely
provide the driver with a view of systems mounted in a position so as to be
passengers in or on the bus must be readily available for use and not be
Each wheelchair position in a WAV
serviceable and functioning. a hazard or cause annoyance to the
must be fitted with an occupant
Maximum safe carrying capacity restraint system (seatbelts) and a vehicle occupants.
signs/notices wheelchair restraint system. Approval certificates
Maximum Safe Carrying Capacity Seatbelts must be a lap and sash All vehicles converted to be a WAV
signs/notices on buses with seating emergency locking retractor type require a VASS approval certificate
positions for 13 or more adults, or a lap and harness type assembly. when first converted to show that the
including the driver, which display vehicle meets the relevant standards
the maximum number of passengers for registration. The certificate must
PTVH5189 STU02895 06.21 Authorised by the Department of Transport, 1 Spring Street, Melbourne
that may be safely carried on that Note contain a notation identifying that
bus, must be in a position visible to the vehicle is suitable for use as a
A lap only seatbelt is not a
the driver and use letters that are WAV. Approval may also be required
compliant restraint system for
at least 25 millimeters high and of if the number or position of seats
people in wheelchairs.
proportionate width. and seatbelts are changed. If any
Tail Shaft Guards concerns arise regarding the VASS
Where the transmission incorporates Wheelchairs must be secured to the certification, the vehicle should be
any longitudinal drive shafts, WAV using at least four tie-down referred to a VASS.
couplings, or intermediate shafts, points with approved wheelchair
provision shall be made to prevent restraints. The number of complete For further information
the front end of any such shaft or sets of restraints in the vehicle at Further information is available
coupling contacting the road in the all times must equal the number of on the VicRoads website:
event of detachment of the front end wheelchair positions. vicroads.vic.gov.au or by calling
from its normal position. VicRoads on 13 11 71 (TTY 13 36 77,
Speak and Listen 1300 555 727).
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