Bought an unregistered car or your NSW rego expired? That’s where a Blue slip inspection becomes crucial. It is needed to prove that an unregistered vehicle is safe, compliant, and eligible for registration in NSW.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything from who needs the inspection requirements, fees, validity and how to find a Blue Slip inspection provider near you. Let’s begin!
What is a NSW Blue Slip?
It is an inspection report provided by an authorised inspector, showing that your unregistered vehicle is safe to be registered.
An AUVIS (Authorised Unregistered Vehicle Inspection Scheme) report is a mandatory vehicle safety inspection needed in NSW. This report makes sure that any vehicle that is not registered meets all safety and compliance. Blue slip inspection becomes an important requirement If you have an unregistered vehicle standing in your garage.
Why is a Blue slip inspection important?
A Blue slip check is not just an inspection report, it’s a vital requirement for certain vehicles to be legally registered in NSW. This inspection report makes sure that your unregistered vehicle meets necessary government standards, protecting both the drivers and pedestrians.
An AUVIS check matters because:
- It guarantees safety by informing that your vehicle is roadworthy, reducing the risk of accidents or breakdowns.
- It ensures that your vehicle is compliant with environmental laws and emissions requirements.
- A blue slip inspection verifies the vehicle identity which helps in preventing theft or illegal modifications, hence preventing fraud.
- This report acts as a proof of ownership when registering a vehicle.
So, a Blue slip (AUVIS) plays an important role in NSW, ensuring that your vehicle is safe, legally compliant and eco-friendly before it’s driven on the road.
Who needs a NSW Blue slip?
You will require a Blue slip inspection done if:
- Your vehicle’s registration has expired for more than 3 months.
- The vehicle has no number plates.
- You’re travelling interstate or from other countries to NSW.
- A previously written-off car is now allowed for re-registration.
- Any big modification like new engine installation has been done.
- You have to clear a defect notice.
The AUVIS report makes sure that your car is legally allowed to be on the road, the report is sent to the Transport of NSW (TfNSW) online and is valid for 42 days.
Documents needed for a Blue slip in NSW
When you take your vehicle for a Blue slip inspection, you will need to provide proof of ownership and identification. It shows that the inspection is valid and can be processed by Transport for NSW.
- Proof of Identity
Photo ID like:-
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- NSW photo card
This confirms that the person requesting the Blue slip is legally responsible for the vehicle.
- Proof of Vehicle Ownership
- Registration certificate, or
- Bill of sale / purchase receipt, or
- Any other legal document showing you own the vehicle.
- Vehicle Information
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- Details about the make, model, and year of the vehicle
- Any documentation for major modifications (if applicable, e.g., engine swaps, custom parts).
- Optional / Situational Documents
- Previous inspection reports if available.
- Any defect notices or repair receipts if you’re re-registering after fixing the issues.
Important Tip:
Always bring the original documents and not photocopies, to avoid delays. Without the proper documents, the inspection may not be accepted, and you won’t get your Blue Slip.
Step by step process for a NSW Blue slip
The process of getting a blue slip inspection becomes more simple by following these steps below.
Step 1:
Head to the official Service NSW site to Find services → Driving and transport → Vehicle registrations → Safety check, inspections and vehicle changes then click on Get an authorised unregistered vehicle inspection (blue slip).
Step 2:
Once done, at the bottom you will see a Find a safety inspection provider, click on it.
Step 3:
Now, you’ll be redirected to a page where you will have to enter your postcode to find the nearest inspection provider.
Step 4:
After you have chosen the inspection provider near you, call them up and schedule your Blue slip inspection. Give all the details they ask for like your vehicle make, model, year and VIN.
Step 5:
Make the payment that may vary depending upon your location and the types of vehicle you have.
Fill the below form to find a local inspection station : https://tfnswforms.transport.nsw.gov.au/45070498-appt-of-authorised-inspection-station.pdf
Important Note:
- Make sure that any inspection station you visit is authorised and has an AIS (Authorised Inspection Scheme) sign at the front of the place. This sign shows what safety checks and inspections they can perform.
- Also, bring your original hard copy of the AUVIS report (Blue slip) when you go get your vehicle registered.
Inspection Results & Timeline
- Blue Slip inspection results are usually immediate and available on the same day.
- If the vehicle passes the inspection, the report is uploaded online to Transport for NSW.
- There is no standard waiting period for Blue Slip results in NSW but you may have to wait 2 weeks for results.
- If the vehicle fails, repairs must be completed before re-inspection.
How much does a Blue slip cost?
A Blue slip cost in NSW varies based on the type of car and inspection.The cost depends on the inspection you choose for your vehicle.
| Inspection type | Total fee (inc. GST) |
| Light vehicle (cars, 4WDs) | $80 |
| Motorcycle | $49 |
| Trailer without brakes | $41 |
| Trailer with brakes | $58 |
Note: These are the updated official regulated maximum fees set by Transport for NSW.
What is the validity of a NSW Blue slip?
After your car has successfully passed the inspection via an authorised inspection station, you will get a Blue slip that’s valid for 42 days. This gives you enough time to complete your vehicle registration. However, if you’re unable to register within the limited timeframe, you’ll have to do the whole inspection process again.
Checklist before a Blue slip inspection in 2026
Before taking your vehicle for a Blue Slip inspection, make sure you’ve done the following:
- Clean the vehicle: Wash the exterior and tidy the interior of the vehicle. So, inspectors can easily check all parts.
- Carry required documents: Bring valid photo ID and proof of vehicle ownership, purchase receipt or old rego papers.
- Fix obvious issues first: Check lights, tyres, brakes, mirrors, seatbelts, and any fluid leaks before inspection.
- Choose an authorised AUVIS station: Visit a licensed inspection station with the AIS (Authorised Inspection Scheme) sign outside.
- Confirm fees and process: Ask about inspection charges and re-inspection rules in advance.
- Have enough fuel: Ensure that there’s sufficient fuel for driving 10km during inspection, to check the vehicle’s functionality.
- Be available during inspection: Staying nearby helps if the inspector needs clarification or finds any issues.
- Review the Blue Slip report carefully: If you fail, understand what needs to be repaired before re-inspection.
- Consider alternatives if needed: If you want to sell your unregistered car, you can get our cash for cars Sydney service. We buy vehicles in any condition and pay you dollars in exchange.
Note: For more information, it recommended to visit Service NSW official website- Safety checks and vehicle inspections | NSW Government
Blue slip inspection process in 2026
If your vehicle is unregistered, the Blue Slip inspection is mandatory before it can be registered in NSW.
In NSW, only AUVIS authorised inspection stations can carry out Blue Slip inspections. These AIS stations are approved by Transport for NSW and conduct both safety and identity checks on unregistered vehicles.
Note: To know more about AIS stations and the checks it conducts, visit : Transport for NSW
What is checked during a blue slip inspection?
Unlike a Pink Slip, a Blue Slip inspection is more detailed and includes mechanical, safety, and identity checks.
- Tyres, wheels, and brakes for legal tread, proper fitment, and safe braking performance
- Lights and indicators to ensure they work correctly and meet legal colour and brightness requirements
- Steering and suspension for secure fitting, stability, and safe operation
- Seatbelts, airbags, and safety systems to confirm they are present and functioning properly
- Windscreen, windows, and wipers for visibility, legal tint levels, and clear driver view
- Vehicle body and structure for rust, accident damage, and overall roadworthiness
- Engine, exhaust, and emissions to check for leaks, excessive noise, and compliance
- Vehicle identity (VIN check) to verify ownership, prevent any tampering, and confirm that the car is not stolen
Note: Pink slip and Blue slip are not the same inspection check, If you want you can read about Pink Slip here.
How long does a Blue slip inspection take?
- The inspection usually takes 30 – 60 minutes
- Results are submitted electronically to Transport for NSW
Inspection Report & Registration
After the inspection:
If your vehicle passes
- The Blue Slip report is sent electronically to Transport for NSW. No paper Blue Slip is issued
- You can proceed with vehicle registration at Service NSW
- A Blue Slip is valid for 42 days
If your vehicle fails
- You’ll receive a report, listing all the required repairs
- Repairs need to be completed before re-inspection
- Re-inspection fees may apply depending on the station
Common reasons why vehicles fail a Blue slip inspection
- Faulty or incorrectly coloured lights
- Worn out tyres or incorrect tyre size
- Brake fluid leaks or weak braking
- Engine oil or coolant leaks
- Excessive exhaust noise or emissions
- Unsafe or non-compliant modifications
- Structural rust or accident damage
- VIN mismatch or identity issues
Important Note:
If your vehicle is not worth repairing then you can just sell it to get some quick cash for cars.
For official guidance, refer to:
Safety checks and vehicle inspections | NSW Government
Conclusion
In short, in this comprehensive guide we have covered everything about how Blue slip (AUVIS) is an important document for unregistered vehicles. It confirms that your vehicle is safe, is roadworthy and compliant with all laws. Whether you’re driving in NSW from another state or country a Blue slip protects you from any legal hassle.
If your vehicle is junk and is not worth repairing, Scraply can help you with it. We give top cash for junk cars and free car removal services.
FAQs
Q1. Do I need a Blue Slip to transfer vehicle registration?
Ans. Yes. Only if the vehicle is unregistered or expired for over 3 months. Registered vehicles don’t need one.
Q2. How long is a Blue Slip valid?
Ans. 42 days from issue date to complete registration.
Q3. Can I drive before getting a Blue Slip?
Ans. No. Unregistered vehicles cannot be driven on public roads.
Q4. Is the Blue Slip different from the Pink Slip?
Ans. Yes. Blue Slip is for unregistered vehicles and includes safety and identity checks, while a Pink Slip is for registered vehicles and covers safety checks only.
Q5. Can a mobile inspector issue a Blue Slip?
Ans. No. Only AUVIS authorised inspection stations can issue Blue Slips.
