Commercial Vehicle Registration Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Registering a commercial vehicle in Australia is more than just a bureaucratic box-ticking exercise—it’s a crucial foundation for protecting your business, your drivers and your livelihood. Whether you’re running a rideshare car, courier van, taxi, delivery fleet or even a single work ute, ensuring your vehicle is properly registered as “commercial” is not just a legal requirement; it’s also essential for valid insurance cover and peace of mind on the road.

But what actually counts as a commercial vehicle, and why does it matter? The difference between commercial and private registration goes well beyond a label on your rego papers—impacting your insurance, tax position and even the types of plates your vehicle wears. With every state and territory setting its own rules, the process can quickly become tangled, especially for businesses operating in multiple regions or switching vehicles between private and business use.

This guide breaks down the commercial vehicle registration process into 11 straightforward steps—from working out if your vehicle needs commercial registration, to gathering the right documents, passing inspections, and finally receiving your plates. Along the way, you’ll find practical advice, real-world scenarios, and direct links to official resources, making each stage clear and manageable.

Ready to get your commercial vehicle on the road—legally, efficiently and with confidence? Let’s step through the process together, so you can focus on what matters most: running your business safely and successfully.

Step 1: Determine if Your Vehicle Requires Commercial Registration

The first step is understanding whether your vehicle falls under the commercial category. Broadly speaking, if you’re using a vehicle to generate income—whether that’s carrying passengers, delivering goods, hiring it out or providing ride-share services—it’s considered commercial. Common examples include a courier van dropping off parcels, an Uber-style rideshare car ferrying passengers, or a food truck serving hungry customers at events.

Getting this classification wrong can carry more than just a fine. If you register a commercial vehicle as private, your insurer might decline a claim if an incident occurs during business use. You could also face penalties for operating without the correct registration, and miss out on tax deductions or GST credits tied to commercial operations. Even the look of your plates changes—commercial vehicles often carry distinctive numbering or colour schemes to highlight their use.

With each state and territory setting its own criteria, it pays to nail this down from the outset. Below, we unpack the main differences between private and commercial registration, then explore why opting for the right class of registration is worth the effort.

Understanding the Difference Between Commercial and Private Registration

Private registration covers vehicles used almost exclusively for personal travel—weekend trips, school runs or daily commutes to the office. Insurers expect private-registered cars to be driven within that context, and premiums reflect a lower risk profile.

Commercial registration, on the other hand, applies when the vehicle’s purpose is tied to earning money. Whether you’re transporting paying passengers, making regular parcel deliveries or hiring the vehicle out, commercial rego is required. Beyond plate colours and fee structures, this classification influences your tax position—eligible commercial vehicles can attract GST credits on running costs and may be subject to Fringe Benefits Tax if provided to employees.

Benefits of Registering as a Commercial Operator

Opting for commercial registration brings several advantages:

• Valid Insurance Cover: Insurers base their policies on how a vehicle is used. Commercial registration ensures your policy covers business-use risks, from passenger injuries to stock damage in transit.
• Tax and GST Credits: When your vehicle is registered as commercial, you can typically claim operating expenses and GST credits, reducing the overall cost of running your fleet.
• Regulatory Compliance: Many passenger and freight operators must meet specific standards set by transport authorities. Proper registration shows you’re meeting these obligations, avoiding fines and keeping your business credentialed.

By confirming that your vehicle meets the commercial criteria, you’ll avoid compliance headaches and set the stage for smoother operations. Ready for the next step? Let’s look at who can register a commercial vehicle and how to choose the right registered operator.

Step 2: Verify Eligibility and Select the Registered Operator

Before diving into paperwork, check that both you—and your chosen legal entity—meet the requirements to register a commercial vehicle. The registered operator carries legal responsibility for the vehicle’s compliance, insurance and ongoing renewals, so it pays to pick the right option from the outset. Whether you register under your own name, as a partnership, or through a company or trust, each choice has its own age limits, documentation needs and tax implications. In this step, we’ll clarify who can hold the registration and how to choose between a personal or corporate operator.

First, confirm you meet the minimum age for the vehicle class you’re registering. Then consider the type of entity—individual, partnership, company or incorporated association—that best suits your business structure. While a personal name registration can be simpler, registering under a company or trust may deliver greater tax deductions and GST credits. However, corporate registrations demand extra paperwork, such as ABN or ACN details, and may attract higher insurance premiums or Fringe Benefits Tax if the vehicle is provided to staff. By weighing these factors now, you’ll streamline the remainder of your commercial vehicle registration process and avoid surprises down the track.

Age and Entity Requirements

Light vehicles (GVM up to 4.5 t) can generally be registered by anyone aged 16 or over, provided they hold a valid driver licence. Heavy vehicles (GVM over 4.5 t) usually require the operator to be at least 18 and possess the appropriate heavy-vehicle licence. If you register on behalf of a company or incorporated association, the officer signing the application must be an authorised representative, such as a company director or secretary.

Corporate and association registrations often require proof of legal status. For a company, you’ll need an Australian Company Number (ACN); for a sole trader or partnership, an Australian Business Number (ABN) suffices. Incorporated associations must supply evidence of incorporation. Always double-check state or territory-specific rules, as some jurisdictions impose additional conditions—especially for specialised operators like taxis or passenger buses.

Registering Under a Company Name Versus Personal Name

Choosing to register under your personal name keeps things straightforward: fewer forms, no corporate resolution or company extracts, and no need to manage trust deeds or director appointments. Insurance policies are typically cheaper, but you’ll miss out on some tax advantages. A company-name registration, meanwhile, lets you claim a broader range of business-use expenses and GST credits on running costs, which can improve your cash flow.

On the flip side, corporate registrations bring extra administration. You’ll need to supply your ACN and possibly a company extract from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). If the vehicle is made available to employees, Fringe Benefits Tax may apply unless structured correctly. Ultimately, balance the simplicity of a personal registration against the financial perks of a corporate setup—keeping in mind that National Cover’s experts can help tailor the optimal choice for your commercial vehicle registration process.

Step 3: Ensure Vehicle Compliance with Australian Design Rules (ADRs)

To register any vehicle—new or imported—as commercial, it must meet Australia’s mandatory safety, emissions and anti-theft standards, known collectively as the Australian Design Rules (ADRs). Established under the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018, ADRs provide a consistent benchmark across all states and territories. If your vehicle doesn’t comply, transport authorities will reject your application, so it pays to check early on.

Every motor vehicle supplied in Australia must have been built or modified to satisfy the ADRs in force at its date of manufacture. These rules cover a broad range of requirements, from crash safety and braking performance to exhaust emissions and theft-resistant features. Even if you’re picking up a brand-new commercial ute from a dealer, confirming ADR compliance ensures you won’t hit any snags when it’s time to register.

Overview of ADRs and Their Purpose

The ADRs are a set of national regulations overseen by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications. They exist to:

• Safeguard occupant and pedestrian safety by mandating crash-worthiness and braking standards.
• Limit harmful emissions, supporting cleaner air and public health.
• Require anti-theft features such as immobilisers and steering locks.

Legally, manufacturers and importers must demonstrate ADR compliance before a vehicle can be sold or registered in Australia. This framework not only enhances road safety but also ensures a level playing field for vehicle makers.

Checking Compliance for New and Imported Vehicles

How do you verify your vehicle meets every ADR requirement? Begin by locating the compliance plate—usually on the driver’s door pillar or under the bonnet. This plate details:

• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and model designation.
• Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) and date of manufacture.
• References to the ADRs the vehicle satisfies.

If the compliance plate or supporting documentation is missing, you’ll need to contact the vehicle’s importer or manufacturer. Alternatively, an approved converter can issue an ADR compliance certificate to confirm the necessary standards have been met. Obtaining this certificate before you lodge your registration application avoids delays and keeps the process on track.

For a deeper dive into specific requirements and ADR categories, refer to the full Australian Design Rules (ADRs).

Step 4: Obtain a Roadworthiness or Heavy Vehicle Inspection Certificate

Before you can lodge your registration application, your vehicle must pass the relevant roadworthiness or heavy-vehicle inspection. Without the appropriate certificate, transport authorities won’t accept your application, resulting in costly delays. Whether you’re registering a well-used ute, a courier van or a prime mover, securing the right inspection certificate demonstrates your vehicle meets safety standards and is fit for commercial operations.

Light Versus Heavy Vehicle Inspection Requirements

Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) up to 4.5 tonnes require a Certificate of Roadworthiness (sometimes called a safety inspection or blue slip, depending on the state). Inspectors will check key safety items such as:

• Brakes and hydraulic lines
• Suspension and shock absorbers
• Steering components and wheel alignment
• Lighting, indicators and reflectors
• Tyres (tread depth and condition)
• Windscreen and wipers

For heavy vehicles (GVM over 4.5 tonnes), you must obtain a Heavy Vehicle Authorised Inspection Scheme (HVAIS) certificate. This inspection is more comprehensive, covering load restraint, air-brake performance, chassis integrity and other items specific to larger rigs. Authorities treat a valid HVAIS certificate as proof that your commercial vehicle complies with roadworthiness and load-safety regulations.

Locating Approved Inspection Providers

Every state and territory maintains a register of authorised inspection stations. To find a provider:

1. Visit your local transport authority’s website and search for “authorised inspection station” or “HVAIS provider.”
2. Confirm the provider is certified to perform the inspection your vehicle requires (light-vehicle roadworthy or heavy-vehicle scheme).
3. Book your inspection early — popular providers can be fully booked weeks in advance.

On the day, present your vehicle clean and with all fluids topped up, ensuring easy access to inspection points. A well-prepared vehicle can speed up the process and increase the chance of passing on the first visit. Once the inspector issues your certificate, keep it with your registration paperwork — without it, your commercial vehicle application will stall.

Step 5: Gather Essential Documentation and Proofs

Nothing derails a registration application faster than missing paperwork. Before you approach your state or territory transport authority, collect every required document and double-check each one for accuracy. Group your paperwork into three categories: identity and residency, vehicle ownership, and business credentials. Keeping these neatly organised will save time, reduce stress and ensure your application sails through without extra trips to service centres.

Start by laying out all forms on a clean surface or a digital folder. Tick off each item as you go, and make clear photocopies or scanned PDFs of originals—transport agencies often require both originals (for sighting) and copies (for retention). With your documents in order, you’ll avoid delays and have peace of mind that you’re ready for the next step.

Proof of Identity and Residency

Every jurisdiction needs to verify who you are and where you live. Generally, you must present:

• One primary photo ID such as:
  • Australian driver licence
  • Australian passport
  • Birth certificate (with photo ID)
• One secondary document showing your name and current address, for example:
  • Utility bill (electricity, water or gas) dated within the last three months
  • Bank or credit-card statement
  • Electoral enrolment confirmation

At least one document must display your Australian residential address—this establishes your eligibility to register vehicles in that state or territory. If you’re registering under a company or trust, you may also need to supply company extracts or trust deeds to prove legal status.

Proof of Vehicle Ownership and Company Details

Transport authorities will want clear evidence you own—or have the right to register—each vehicle. Acceptable proofs include:

• Bill of sale or tax invoice from the seller, showing purchase price, date, VIN/engine number and signatures
• A copy of the previous registration certificate or “rego papers” in your name
• A dealer receipt or certificate of dealer sale

When transferring a vehicle from one private owner to another, some states require a transfer form (for example, Form MR9 in NSW). In Western Australia, the Form VL17 application doubles as proof of ownership when correctly completed by the seller. If the vehicle is being registered in a corporate name, you’ll also need your Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN) and, in some cases, a current ASIC company extract.

By assembling these documents ahead of time, you’ll sidestep common pitfalls and move to the next step—securing insurance and submitting your application—with confidence.

Step 6: Secure Compulsory Third Party (CTP) Insurance

Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance, often called a “green slip” in some states, is mandatory before any vehicle registration can be finalised. This cover protects other road users by ensuring personal injury costs are met if you’re at fault in an accident. Without a valid CTP policy, transport authorities will reject your registration application, and driving unregistered can lead to hefty fines or licence suspensions.

Understanding CTP Cover and Its Importance

CTP insurance safeguards individuals, rather than the vehicle itself. It covers legal and medical expenses for third parties who suffer injuries as a result of a vehicle accident you cause. What’s included typically varies between states and territories: for example, Queensland’s green slip scheme operates differently from New South Wales’ statutory scheme, and excess levels or claims processes can differ. Despite these variations, the principle remains the same—CTP ensures victims receive swift support without dragging the at-fault driver through lengthy legal battles.

How to Obtain and Provide CTP Certificate

Purchasing CTP is straightforward. You can buy green slips or certificates directly through insurer websites, compare offers on online platforms, or go through a broker. Once you’ve settled on a policy, you’ll receive a digital certificate, confirmation number or paper slip—details you must present when lodging your registration. In most states, the insurer transmits your details automatically to the transport authority, but it’s wise to keep a copy of your certificate handy. That way, if there’s a hiccup in the system, you can prove your cover instantly and avoid unnecessary delays.

Step 7: Submit Your Registration Application (State and Territory Guide)

With all inspections passed, insurance secured and paperwork in order, you’re ready to lodge your application. Each state and territory has its own agency and processes—some allow online lodgement, while others require you to visit a service centre or post the forms. Below is a snapshot of how to submit your registration in four major jurisdictions. Always double-check any state-specific checklists and fees before you start.

New South Wales

In NSW, commercial and heavy-vehicle registrations are managed through Service NSW. You can complete the process online or in person, but you’ll need to have:

• Proof of identity and residency
• Your valid CTP certificate (green slip)
• A current HVAIS inspection certificate for GVM > 4.5 t or a roadworthy for light commercial vehicles
• Evidence of ownership (bill of sale, previous rego papers or dealer invoice)

Once you’ve gathered these, fill in the heavy-vehicle registration form and lodge it via your MyServiceNSW account or at a Service NSW centre. Payment is taken at the time of application, and you’ll receive your rego plates and certificate either immediately or by post. For details and to start your application, see Apply for heavy vehicle registration in NSW.

Victoria

VicRoads handles all registrations in Victoria. If your vehicle is used and under 15 years old, you’ll need a Certificate of Roadworthiness before you arrive. Here’s the usual process:

• Book an appointment with VicRoads or one of their authorised agents
• Bring your identity documents, CTP certificate and roadworthy/HVAIS report
• Complete the VicRoads application, pay the fee and receive your certificate
• Have your plates fitted on the spot—or they’ll be mailed to you if ordered

The booking system lets you choose a time that suits, avoiding long waits. To see which centres offer online lodgement or to book, visit Register a vehicle with VicRoads.

Queensland

In Queensland, the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) oversees commercial registrations. You can apply at any TMR customer service centre or through a licensed agent. Make sure you have:

• A completed registration application form
• Primary and secondary ID
• Your CTP green slip number
• Roadworthy or HVAIS inspection certificate (for heavy vehicles or older units)
• Proof of ownership

Forms can be downloaded in advance or filled in at the centre. If you prefer, some agents offer a fully digital experience—just check their website for details. To locate your nearest centre or start the online process, head to Register your commercial vehicle in QLD.

Western Australia

Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) in WA manages both light and heavy commercial registrations. The key steps are:

• Complete the Form VL17 (“Application to License a Vehicle”)
• Present your proof of identity, CTP confirmation and inspection certificate
• Supply proof of ownership and, if registering under a company, your ABN or ACN
• Pay the licensing fee and vehicle licence duty

Applications must be lodged in person at a DVS centre, regional DoT office or agent. Once processed, you’ll walk out with your plates and a vehicle licence document. For more on the WA procedure, see Licence a vehicle in WA.

Step 8: Calculate and Pay Registration Fees, Duties and MII Insurance

Once your application is accepted, you’ll receive a notice outlining three distinct costs: the registration fee, any vehicle licence duty (a state tax on vehicle value) and—where applicable—Motor Injury Insurance (MII). Registration fees fund road maintenance and enforcement, licence duty is payable on the dutiable value of the vehicle (sometimes adjusted if you trade in an older unit) and MII is Western Australia’s version of compulsory third-party cover. In other states and territories, that third-party cover is bundled as CTP (green slip) and is typically settled when you first purchase your registration.

Rather than guess these charges, use the online calculators or duty estimators provided by each state revenue office. They let you enter your vehicle’s make, model, GVM or purchase price and will spit out the duty you owe. If you’re registering heavy vehicles across multiple jurisdictions, it’s wise to contact each revenue office directly or speak with a specialist—this avoids surprises, especially if you qualify for a concession or run a large fleet.

Heavy Vehicle Registration Charges and the PAYGO Model

Heavy-vehicle fees generally follow a pay-as-you-go (PAYGO) approach, where charges depend on:

• Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) or Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM)
• Number of axles in the combination
• Distance travelled (in some categories)

Each year these rates are indexed and published in national schedules. You can review the full breakdown of categories and charges on the National Transport Commission’s site: registration charges for heavy vehicles. As a simple illustration:

• A 2-axle rigid truck with a GVM of 8 t might attract a lower fee than a 4-axle prime mover towing two trailers.
• An operator running higher-mass combinations will see fees scale up accordingly.

Factor in anticipated annual mileage if you fall under any mass-distance-based schemes—estimating too low can incur penalties, while overestimating ties up extra capital.

Calculating Duties and Concessions

Vehicle licence duty is calculated on the dutiable value, which is generally the market value minus any trade-in allowance. Each jurisdiction sets its own rates—for example, some states charge a flat percentage up to a threshold, then a higher rate above that.

A basic formula looks like:

Dutiable Value = Purchase Price – Trade-in Allowance 
Duty Payable = Dutiable Value × Applicable Rate 

If you bought a truck for $80 000 and traded in your old van for $15 000, your dutiable value is $65 000. At a 3 % rate, duty would be:

$65 000 × 0.03 = $1 950 

Many operators qualify for concessions, which can reduce or waive duty:

• Charitable organisations
• Primary producers and agricultural vehicles
• Local and state government fleets
• Ambulance and emergency service vehicles

Each concession has its own criteria and application process. Always check your state revenue office’s website for the latest concession guidelines, and have documentation (such as charity registration or land-use declarations) ready when you apply.

By running through these calculators and factoring in any discounts, you’ll know exactly what to budget before you hit the counter or click “Confirm Payment.” Once paid, your registration is fully live, and you can collect your plates and certificate with confidence.

Step 9: Receive Your Registration Plates and Certificate

Once your application has been approved and payment is processed, you’ll receive two key pieces of evidence: your number plates and your vehicle licence certificate. In most jurisdictions, if you lodge in person at a service centre (for example, Service NSW, VicRoads or a WA DVS office), you’ll walk out with physical plates fitted to your vehicle and a paper licence certificate in hand. Alternatively, if you’ve applied online or by post, expect your plates and certificate to arrive by mail within a few business days.

Increasingly, states and territories also offer digital registration—sometimes called e-rego—where your certificate is emailed as a PDF or made available via a mobile app. Even if you choose digital delivery, you’ll still receive physical plates; the digital option simply replaces the paper certificate. Keep an eye on your email inbox (and junk folder) after lodgement, or log into your online account with the transport authority to download your e-certificate once it’s ready.

Plate Allocation and Display Requirements

Commercial vehicles often carry standard-issue plates, but some fleets opt for specialist series (such as heavy-vehicle or hire-hire plates) that use unique prefixes or colours to denote their status. Check your state’s guidelines to see if a particular plate series applies—any specific requirements will be detailed when you complete your application.

When mounting plates, follow these general rules:

• Position them centrally on the front and rear of the vehicle, no lower than 300 mm from the ground and no higher than 1 200 mm.
• Ensure plates are clean, legible and free from obstructions (tow bars, mudguards or aftermarket accessories shouldn’t cover any characters).
• Fit plates using corrosion-resistant fixings and, if required, illuminate the rear plate with a white number-plate lamp so it’s visible at night.

Failure to meet display requirements can attract on-the-spot fines or even result in de-registration until corrected—so it pays to follow the rules from day one.

Issuing Digital Versus Physical Evidence of Registration

Physical certificates remain fully valid and accepted by enforcement officers, but digital certificates are gaining traction for their convenience. An emailed PDF or app-based rego card is quick to access and harder to misplace. In Victoria, for example, you can store your registration in the VicRoads app; in NSW, your licence details link to your MyServiceNSW profile.

Regardless of format, you must carry proof of registration at all times. If you drive without any evidence (paper or digital), you risk fines or impoundment—even if your vehicle is fully paid up. Aim to keep a copy on your phone and tuck the paper certificate in your glovebox as a backup. With plates in place and your certificate ready, your commercial vehicle is now legal to operate on Australian roads.

Step 10: Maintain Your Commercial Registration

Securing your commercial registration is a milestone, but it’s only half the battle. Ongoing compliance ensures you stay legal, avoid penalties and protect your bottom line. Missing a renewal date or losing critical documents can mean fines, a lapse in insurance cover or delays in operating your vehicle. By taking a proactive approach to renewals and record-keeping, you’ll keep your fleet on the road and your mind at ease.

Renewals and Reminder Systems

Every state and territory will send you a renewal notice—typically six to eight weeks before your registration expires—but these grace periods vary. Some jurisdictions let you renew online, by phone or at an agency, while others require a quick trip to a service centre. To stay ahead:

• Mark the renewal date on your calendar as soon as you receive the initial notice.
• Sign up for email or SMS reminders from your transport authority’s online portal.
• Consider subscribing to National Cover’s policy alerts if you have commercial motor insurance with us—our team flags upcoming expiry dates for both registration and insurance.

Renewing early has its perks: you lock in current fees, sidestep last-minute fees or surcharges, and avoid the risk of driving unregistered. Whether you use an online account or set a manual reminder, building a simple system now will save you headaches—and potential fines—later.

Record-Keeping and Ongoing Compliance

Good record-keeping is more than a filing chore—it’s your best defence if you’re inspected or audited. Transport authorities and insurers may request proof of:

• Registration certificates or e-rego PDF files.
• Latest inspection reports, including roadworthiness or HVAIS certificates.
• Current CTP or Motor Injury Insurance documents.

Store digital copies in a shared, secure folder (with read-only access for drivers) and keep paper originals in a dedicated binder or glovebox. For larger fleets, consider a central compliance register that logs renewal dates, inspection schedules and insurance expiries. When you can retrieve any document in minutes, you’ll breeze through spot checks and reduce the risk of overlooked omissions.

By embedding these maintenance routines into your business operations, you’ll ensure every commercial vehicle remains legally registered, fully insured and ready for the road—whatever the demands of your business.

Step 11: Consider Operator Accreditation under NHVAS for Fleets

If you’re managing more than a handful of heavy vehicles, accreditation under the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS) is worth a close look. NHVAS isn’t mandatory, but it rewards operators who build and maintain strong safety and maintenance systems. Accredited fleets often enjoy reduced roadside inspections, access to mass concessions and a stronger reputation among clients and regulators alike. In short, NHVAS can smooth your day-to-day operations while cutting costs over the long run.

Before you decide, weigh the upfront investment—time, documentation and an independent audit—against the ongoing efficiencies. For many fleet operators, the initial effort pays off quickly through better planning, fewer delays and a demonstrable commitment to safety. In the sections below, we’ll unpack what NHVAS entails and how to get the wheels rolling on accreditation.

Overview of the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme

The NHVAS, administered by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), recognises operators that implement robust management systems across key areas of heavy-vehicle operation. It’s built around three core modules:

• Mass Management: Allows access to concessional mass limits when you demonstrate accurate load controls.
• Maintenance Management: Rewards a documented and proactive maintenance regime, reducing unplanned downtime.
• Fatigue Management: Confirms you have systems to monitor driver hours, fatigue training and schedules that keep teams safe.

By meeting NHVAS standards, you signal to clients, insurers and enforcement agencies that your fleet runs to a consistent, high standard.

Benefits and Application Process for Accreditation

Accredited operators typically see a range of perks, including:

• Mass concessions that let you haul slightly more payload without breaching legal limits.
• Fewer roadside inspections—authorities trust your systems, so you spend less time pulled over.
• A competitive edge when tendering for contracts that specify NHVAS or high-safety credentials.
• Potential insurance discounts, as insurers view accredited fleets as lower risk.

Getting started is straightforward:

1. Choose the module(s) you want to adopt and download the NHVAS guidelines.
2. Develop or refine your management system documentation—policies, checklists, training records and maintenance logs.
3. Engage an approved auditor to assess your processes and submit the audit report to the NHVR.
4. Once your application passes review, you’ll receive accreditation for the module(s) you applied for.

For full details on eligibility, fees and the application pack, visit the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS) page.

Accreditation may not be on every operator’s bucket list, but for medium-to-large fleets it often pays dividends in safety, compliance and cost savings. If your business moves substantial freight or passengers, NHVAS could be the boost you need to streamline your operations and stand out in a crowded market.

Ready to Hit the Road

You’ve now navigated the essentials—from confirming your vehicle’s commercial status and meeting ADR and roadworthiness standards, through to organising your identity, ownership proofs, CTP insurance, fees and ongoing renewals. With each box ticked, your commercial vehicle is fully compliant and officially registered to carry passengers or goods across Australia.

Keeping everything up to date is just as important as the initial registration. Stick to inspection schedules, renew your registration and insurance on time, and maintain accurate records of your certificates. This simple routine will protect your business from unexpected fines, interrupted services or insurance headaches down the track.

Feeling confident? Make sure your cover matches your new registration. For competitive, tailored commercial motor insurance that safeguards your fleet—and your bottom line—turn to National Cover. We’ll help you hit the road knowing your vehicles, drivers and reputation are in expert hands.