The NT Government has announced “common sense” reforms to light vehicle roadworthiness inspection processes which it says will save drivers time and money.
From 5 January 2026, light vehicles less than 10 years old will no longer require periodic roadworthy inspections, in line with most other Australian states and territories.
Instead, inspections will only be required for light vehicles over 10 years old in the following circumstances:
- When transferring ownership (can be completed by either seller or buyer);
- When re-establishing registration after a lapse of more than 12 months;
- When first registering in the Northern Territory (prior to compliance checks for interstate transfers).
This includes all light vehicles that are 4.5 tonnes (GVM) or less, such as cars, 4WD, mini vans, motorcycles and boat or box trailers (over 750kg). There will be no changes to box or boat trailers under 750kg which will not require roadworthy inspections at any point, as per existing requirements.
Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure, Bill Yan said the reforms were about putting practical measures in place that maintain road safety while reducing unnecessary costs for drivers.
“Territorians with well-maintained, newer vehicles shouldn’t have to jump through hoops or fork out for redundant checks,” Mr Yan said.
“These changes are about using our resources smarter, focusing on active, on-road enforcement to better target unroadworthy vehicles, not penalising responsible motorists.”
The Approvals Fast-track Taskforce delivered its final report Saying ‘Yes’ to Business, which identified key hurdles facing businesses and individuals when navigating certification and licensing processes. This reform delivers directly on those recommendations, reducing compliance burdens and streamlining red tape for Territorians.
Transport Inspectors will now be able to undertake more targeted on-road inspections in conjunction with the Northern Territory Police Force, strengthening road safety outcomes across the Territory, the Minister said.
There will be no changes to periodic inspection requirements for heavy vehicles or commercial passenger vehicles which will continue to require annual roadworthy inspections.
All inspections for modified vehicles, individually constructed vehicles, and written-off vehicles must be carried out at a Government inspection facility.
Chief Executive Officer for Austroads, Geoff Allan, welcomed the Government’s announcement.
“There is a significant amount of research that shows that while there is some safety benefit in regular vehicle inspections for light vehicles, research also shows that other interventions have greater safety outcomes for the same effort,” he said.
“Research, including by the National Transport Commission, shows the benefit in regular heavy vehicle inspections, especially for wearing components such as tyres, brakes, wipers and shock absorbers.”
All drivers remain responsible for ensuring their vehicle is safe and roadworthy. Vehicles that are regularly maintained are more likely to meet inspection standards and avoid enforcement penalties, said Minister Yan.
“The message is simple: drive responsibly and maintain your vehicle. These changes will reduce inconvenience for most drivers while ensuring unsafe vehicles are still caught where it matters, on the road,” he said.
“Our government is committed to safe, practical reforms that support everyday Territorians.
This is another example of delivering action, certainty and security.”
