Is Your Car Due for Rego? Everything You Need to Know About Registration Inspections

For many Australians, owning a car is essential for everyday life—whether it's for commuting, family trips, or weekend adventures. But along with car ownership comes the responsibility of keeping your vehicle roadworthy and legally registered. One of the most crucial steps in this process is the registration inspection.

If you’ve ever found yourself searching for “rego check near me” or wondering “when do I need a registration inspection near me?”, this comprehensive guide is here to help. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from what a registration inspection involves to how to find a licensed inspection station in your area.

What Is a Registration Inspection?

A registration inspection, also known as a pink slip (especially in New South Wales), is a safety check that ensures your vehicle meets all roadworthy standards. It’s a requirement for many vehicles to remain registered, particularly if your car is over five years old or you're registering it after its rego has expired.

The inspection covers various safety components of your vehicle, such as:

• Brakes and tyres
• Lights and indicators
• Seatbelts and mirrors
• Suspension and steering
• Windshield condition and wipers
• Fluid leaks

If your vehicle passes the registration inspection, an eSafety Check report is electronically sent to Transport for NSW, allowing you to proceed with renewing your registration.

Do All Vehicles Need a Registration Inspection?

Not all vehicles need to undergo a registration inspection every year. Here’s a general guide:

• Vehicles under 5 years old: Usually exempt from annual safety checks unless stated otherwise.
• Vehicles 5 years or older: Require annual registration inspections.
• Light vehicles: Including passenger cars and small vans, typically need a pink slip inspection.
• Heavy vehicles: Often require additional roadworthiness checks (e.g., blue slips, defect notices).

Note: If you’re registering a vehicle that has never been registered in NSW or has been unregistered for more than 3 months, you’ll need a blue slip inspection instead of a pink slip.

How to Know When You Need a Rego Check

The most reliable way to determine if you need a registration inspection is to check your renewal notice. The notice from Transport for NSW or your state's road authority will tell you whether a pink slip inspection is required before renewing your rego.

You can also search online using terms like “rego check near me” to find local inspection stations and learn more about your vehicle’s rego status.

Additionally, you can:

• Log in to your Service NSW account
• Use the Check Registration feature on the Transport for NSW website
• Visit an authorised inspection station near you
  

Where Can You Get a Registration Inspection Done?

When you’re ready for your pink slip, simply look for a mechanic or inspection centre licensed to perform eSafety checks. Search for “registration inspection near me” to find the closest options in your suburb or local area.

Authorised inspection stations are located across:

• Metropolitan areas (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, etc.)
• Regional towns and country areas
• Automotive service centres and some dealerships

It’s important to make sure the service centre is accredited by your state’s road authority to ensure your inspection is valid.

What Happens During the Inspection?

During a typical registration inspection, a licensed mechanic will assess the safety and condition of your car. The process generally takes about 30–45 minutes. Here's a breakdown of what they check:

1. Braking system – pads, rotors, and fluid levels
2. Tyre condition – tread depth and inflation
3. Lights and indicators – working bulbs, lens condition
4. Windshield and wipers – clear visibility and function
5. Horn, mirrors, seatbelts – legal compliance and condition
6. Fluid leaks – checking for oil, coolant, or brake fluid leaks
7. Suspension and steering – responsiveness and wear

If your vehicle passes, the report is immediately submitted online. If repairs are required, you’ll need to fix the issues and return within 14 days for a reinspection at no additional cost.

How Much Does a Registration Inspection Cost?

Prices can vary slightly by location and vehicle type, but the typical cost of a pink slip in NSW is regulated. As of 2025, it usually costs around:

• $45–$65 for a light vehicle
• $25–$40 for motorcycles
• More for heavy vehicles or specialised inspections

Always confirm pricing with the mechanic when booking your registration inspection near me.

Can You Renew Rego Without an Inspection?

If your renewal notice says that an inspection is required, you cannot renew your registration without it. The eSafety check must be completed and submitted to Transport for NSW before the renewal can be processed.

However, if no inspection is required (usually for newer vehicles), you can renew your rego online without visiting a mechanic.

What If Your Vehicle Fails the Inspection?

Failing a registration inspection doesn’t mean the end of the road. The mechanic will provide a detailed report listing the issues found. You have 14 days to get those issues resolved and return for a free reinspection.

If you delay beyond that period, you’ll need to pay for a new full inspection.

Some common reasons for failure include:

• Bald or damaged tyres
• Leaking fluids
• Cracked windshields
• Faulty lights or indicators
• Worn-out brake pads

Tips for a Smooth Rego Check

Want to breeze through your next rego check? Here are some tips:

• Keep your car clean and maintained – Regular servicing goes a long way.
• Do a pre-check – Test lights, brakes, and fluid levels before heading in.
• Fix known issues early – Don’t wait for the inspection to deal with a worn tyre or broken light.
• Book ahead – Especially around peak renewal months.

Being proactive saves you time, money, and hassle—especially if you’re trying to avoid repeat visits.

Why Rego Checks Are Important

Rego checks might feel like a hassle, but they serve a very important purpose: road safety.

• Protecting yourself and By ensuring your vehicle is in safe operating condition, you’re:
  passengers
• Minimising the risk of accidents
• Staying compliant with the law
• Avoiding fines or cancelled registrations

Moreover, it gives you peace of mind knowing your car is safe for the roads.

Looking for a Rego Check Near You?

If your renewal notice has arrived and you’re typing “rego check near me” into Google, make sure you choose a certified provider. Look for:

• Authorised eSafety Check stations
• Positive reviews and local reputation
• Fair pricing and transparency
• Convenient appointment options

Whether you're in Sydney’s inner suburbs or a regional NSW town, finding a reliable mechanic for your registration inspection near me is easier than ever with online directories and tools like Service NSW’s station locator.

Final Thoughts

Staying on top of your rego obligations doesn’t have to be complicated. Understanding the basics of registration inspections, knowing when they’re needed, and how to find reliable providers can help you avoid unnecessary stress or penalties.

From keeping your vehicle roadworthy to renewing your registration on time, regular inspections are a key part of responsible car ownership.

If your car is due, don’t delay book your registration inspection today and keep your vehicle safe, legal, and ready for the road.