Written-off vehicle inspections
They are part of the national theft reduction initiative and are required to ensure that the identity of repaired written-off vehicles is legitimate. This is to combat the illegal use of vehicle identifiers and to stop the re-birthing of stolen vehicles.
Where can I get a written-off vehicle inspection?
Queensland Inspection Services do written-off vehicle inspections. They have sites in Brisbane, Bundaberg, Cairns, Gold Coast, Mackay, Rockhampton, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba, and Townsville. To get more information or make a booking, contact 1300 722 411.
What is the process to get a written-off vehicle inspection?
Booking times range from a few days to over a month so forward planning is always suggested. When booking an inspection, the vehicle’s details, including the vehicle identification number (VIN) make, model, colour and registration number must be provided.
On the day of the appointment, the owner will need to personally present the vehicle at the inspection site. If this is not possible, the person presenting the vehicle will have to prove their identity by showing an acceptable form of identification, such as a Queensland driver licence.
The representative of an organisation must show a letter of authority to conduct business on behalf of the organisation, in addition to their own personal identification.
What documents are required?
On the day of the inspection you will be required to provide:
- appropriate evidence of identity
- a current safety certificate
- proof of purchase or ownership
- receipts for parts or repairs.
Failure to provide some documentation could result in delays during the vehicle inspection.
How long will the inspection take?
You must drop the vehicle off to the inspection site on the morning of the appointment—you are not allowed to be present during the inspection process. The inspection, on average, takes 1 day. The examiner will contact you when the vehicle is ready to be collected. If more time is required to complete the inspection, you may have to leave the vehicle at the inspection site for longer.
What is the difference between a safety certificate inspection and a written-off vehicle inspection?
A safety certificate inspection meets the minimum legal safety requirements to be driven on the road, as specified in the Vehicle Inspection Guidelines.
The written-off vehicle inspection is a thorough and detailed analysis of the identity and history of the vehicle to ensure its identity is legitimate. The inspection includes an analysis of the vehicle’s history and repair documents. If there is any doubt or inconsistencies with the vehicle’s identity, history or documentation, the vehicles are referred to the Queensland Police Service for further inspection. The Queensland Police Service may undertake a
detailed forensic inspection on the vehicle to confirm its legitimate identity.
