Thinking of hitting the road in an unregistered vehicle? Hold on! Do you know the risks involved? Without a permit, driving an unregistered car is illegal. But don’t worry–getting back on the road legally is possible! All you need is to re-register your call and get a blue slip.
But what exactly is a blue slip? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from how to get one to the costs involved and what to do if your vehicle doesn’t pass the AUVIS inspection.
What is a Blue Slip in NSW?
A Blue Slip, officially called an Authorised Unregistered Vehicle Inspection Scheme (AUVIS) report, is a certification that confirms an unregistered vehicle is roadworthy and meets all safety standards. In NSW, any unregistered light vehicle must pass this inspection before it can be registered.
Why is a Blue Slip Important?
More than just a piece of paper, a blue slip ensures safety, legal compliance, and even environmental responsibility. Here’s why it’s essential:
- Road Safety: Verifies that your vehicle meets all required safety standards, reducing the risk of accidents and breakdowns.
- Public Protection: Makes sure that only well-maintained cars are allowed on the road, keeping pedestrians and other drivers safe.
- Legal Compliance: Proves that your car meets registration and environmental regulations, including emission standards.
- Proof of Ownership: This serves as a document that confirms the identity of your vehicle, helping in cases of theft or illegal modifications.
- Eco-Friendly Driving: Inspections detect environmental harms, promoting responsible vehicle maintenance and cleaner air.
Who’s Eligible for a Blue Slip in NSW?
Before you go ahead with a blue slip inspection, let’s first see if your vehicle qualifies. You’ll need a blue slip if your car meets any of the following conditions:
- The registration has been expired for more than three months.
- The vehicle is from another state, territory, or overseas.
- The car has no number plates.
- It was previously written off but is now approved for re-registration.
- Significant modifications have been made like a new engine.
- A defect notice needs to be cleared.
Blue Slip Cost in NSW
The Blue slip cost depends on the type of car inspection required:
- Light vehicles – $78
- Motorcycles – $48
- Trailers without brakes – $39
- Trailers with brakes – $56
How to Get an AUVIS Report (Blue Slip) in 4 Easy Steps
Navigating the Blue Slip process doesn’t have to be stressful! Follow these simple steps to make sure of a smooth experience:
Step 1: Locate an Inspection Provider
Head over to the Service NSW website, where you’ll find a handy tool to locate approved inspection stations near you. Simply click on “Find a Safety Inspection Provider” (see image below).
Step 2: Enter Your Location & Choose Wisely
Type your location in the search box and browse the list of nearby inspection centers. Pick the one that best fits your needs.
Step 3: Book Your Appointment
Once you’ve found a suitable inspection center, give them a call. Share major details about your car such as make, model, condition, and VIN, and schedule a convenient appointment.
Step 4: Pay the Inspection Fee
The final step is to pay the inspection fee, which varies depending on your vehicle type and chosen inspection centre.
The AUVIS Inspection: What to Expect
Before you can secure an AUVIS report, your car must undergo a thorough inspection. Below’s how it works:
The Inspection Process
During the inspection, an expert will assess major components of your car which include:
- Tyres & Wheels
- Engine & Emissions
- Lights
- Steering & Suspension
- Brakes
- Vehicle Body Condition
- Seatbelts & Airbags
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- Overall Safety Factors such as checking for leaks, damage, or modifications
What Happens Next?
- If your vehicle passes, you’ll get a Blue Slip report, allowing you to register it with Transport for NSW.
- If it fails, you’ll need to address the issues and repeat the process.
How Long Does It Take?
Expect the inspection to last 30–60 minutes.
For official safety checks, visit the: Safety Checks and Vehicle Inspections | NSW Government
What to Do If Your Vehicle Fails a Blue Slip Inspection in NSW
So, your vehicle didn’t pass the blue slip inspection? Don’t stress–it happens! Below’s what you need to do next to get your car road-ready.
Step 1: Identify the Issues
First, speak with the mechanic to know about why your car failed. They will provide a written report detailing the needed repairs and an estimate of the expenses involved.
Step 2: Get the Repairs Done
Find a reputable mechanic who uses approved parts and tools. Prioritise major repairs first–minor fixes can wait. Keep all receipts as proof of repairs.
Step 3: Schedule a Re-Inspection
Once repairs are complete, book another inspection at the same or another authorised station. Be prepared to pay the inspection fee again.
Failing a blue slip isn’t the end of the road—just a pit stop. Follow these steps, and you’ll be back on track in no time!
Common Reasons Vehicles Fail a Blue Slip Inspection
- Lights – Faulty or missing headlights, brake lights, turn signals, or incorrect brightness/colour.
- Windscreen & Windows – Cracks, chips, obstructed vision, illegal tint, or faulty window mechanisms.
- Tyres – Insufficient tread depth, improper size/pressure, visible cuts or bulges.
- Suspension – Worn shocks or springs, excessive noise, vibration, or fluid leaks.
- Modifications – Non-compliant modifications, missing compliance plates, or unsafe installations.
- Brakes – Worn brake pads, leaking brake fluid, or uneven braking performance.
- Other Issues – Oil leaks, exhaust problems, missing safety features (seatbelts, airbags), or structural damage.
Essential Tips for Getting a Blue Slip in NSW
When it comes to obtaining a Blue Slip in NSW, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure a hassle-free process.
- Every Authorised Inspection Station (AIS) has a sign displayed at the front of their premises. This indicates that they are approved to conduct safety inspections.
- Once you get your Blue Slip, go through it thoroughly to understand the inspection results.
- Attending the inspection allows you to ask questions, clarify concerns, and better understand the process. Before the inspection, make sure your vehicle is clean and all required paperwork is ready, including proof of ownership and any past inspection reports.
- Always choose an inspection provider Transport for NSW to ensure a legitimate safety and compliance check for your vehicle.
- When heading to Service NSW for re-registration, don’t forget to carry the hard copy of your Blue Slip report.
- Think about providers with good reviews, experience, and a solid reputation to ensure a smooth process.
- Different stations may have varying fees. Check the pricing, additional expenses, and overall process before making a choice.
- If you decide not to re-register your unregistered vehicle, you can always choose cash for cars in Sydney. We offer competitive prices for unwanted cars!
Conclusion
This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a Blue Slip in NSW—from costs and inspections to essential considerations. With this information, you can navigate the process with confidence. Stay tuned for more insightful blogs to help you make informed decisions about your vehicle!
