Ensuring your vehicle meets the required safety standards is paramount in Western Australia, and the Department of Transport (DoT) plays a crucial role in overseeing this process. To facilitate convenient and accessible vehicle inspections, the DoT has authorised Authorised Inspection Stations (AIS), which are private businesses located throughout metropolitan and regional Western Australia. These AIS are your primary point of contact for vehicle inspections, offering a range of services to keep your vehicle compliant and safe on WA roads.
Understanding Authorised Inspection Stations (AIS)
The DoT licenses private businesses as Authorised Inspection Stations (AIS) to conduct vehicle inspections. This network of AIS provides widespread access to inspection services, offering flexibility in terms of location and operating hours. Unlike the DoT’s limited facilities, AIS providers often have varied schedules, and some even offer weekend appointments. It’s advisable to contact several AIS in your area to find a booking time that suits your needs.
Key Considerations Before Booking an AIS Inspection:
- Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM): Before you book an inspection for a light vehicle, it’s critical to check your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM). For inspection at a standard AIS, your vehicle’s GVM must be less than 4,500kg. You can find the GVM on your vehicle’s registration papers or the compliance plate, usually located in the engine bay or on the door frame. Vehicles with a GVM of 4,500kg or greater must be inspected at a heavy vehicle AIS.
- Motorcycle Engine Capacity/LAMS: If you own a motorcycle, inform the AIS about its engine capacity or LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme) category when booking. This ensures the AIS assigns an inspector with the correct motorcycle license class (RE or R) to examine your bike.
Types of Vehicles and Specific Inspection Notes
The AIS network caters to a broad range of vehicles, but it’s important to be aware of specific requirements and exceptions:
- Light Vehicles: Typically include cars, SUVs, and light commercial vehicles with a GVM under 4,500kg. This category also extends to caravans, trailers, and motorcycles that fall within this weight limit.
- Heavy Vehicles: Encompass vehicles with a GVM exceeding 4,500kg. This category also includes heavy caravans and trailers. Heavy vehicle inspections must be conducted at specialized heavy vehicle AIS locations.
- Stretch Limousines: Owners of stretch limousines should inform the AIS of their vehicle’s dimensions when booking. This ensures the inspection station has the necessary facilities and equipment to accommodate the vehicle’s size.
Important Notes for Vehicle Owners Regarding Inspections
- Unlicensed Vehicles: If your vehicle is unregistered or unlicensed and requires an inspection, you will need to obtain a Temporary Movement Permit from the DoT to legally drive it to the AIS.
- Written-off Vehicles: Inspections for written-off vehicles are handled by specific authorised written-off vehicle AIS. Refer to the DoT’s website for a list of these specialized inspection stations.
- Personal Import Vehicles: AIS do not inspect personal import vehicles. Contact the DoT directly for information on the inspection process for vehicles imported from overseas.
- Exclusions: It’s important to note that exclusions may apply at certain AIS locations. Always contact your preferred AIS outlet to confirm they can inspect your specific vehicle type and to clarify any potential exclusions.
Department of Transport Kelmscott Vehicle Examination Centre (VEC)
While AIS handle the majority of vehicle inspections, the DoT maintains the Kelmscott Vehicle Examination Centre (VEC) for specific and complex cases. This facility operates on an appointment-only basis and is reserved for:
- High-Risk Vehicles: Vehicles identified as posing a higher safety risk.
- Highly Modified Vehicles: Vehicles with significant modifications that require specialized inspection.
- Oversized Vehicles: Vehicles exceeding standard size limits.
- Tow Trucks (First-Time Licensing): Inspections for tow trucks being licensed for the first time are conducted at the VEC.
The Kelmscott VEC also plays a vital role in maintaining inspection standards by providing ongoing training to all AIS examiners, ensuring consistent and high-quality inspection services across Western Australia. Appointments at the Kelmscott VEC are only available to customers directly instructed by the DoT.
Conclusion
Navigating vehicle inspections in Western Australia is made easier through the network of Authorised Inspection Stations. By understanding the role of AIS, knowing your vehicle’s GVM, and being aware of specific vehicle requirements, you can ensure a smooth and efficient inspection process. Always remember to check with your chosen AIS for any specific requirements or exclusions to guarantee your vehicle meets all necessary standards set by the Department of Transport, keeping our roads safe for everyone.
