Rules change, so always confirm the current requirements on the official ACT Government (Access Canberra) website before you rely on anything here.
What an inspection checks
A roadworthy-style inspection looks at the safety essentials: brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, lights, seatbelts and the body. It's about safety, not condition — a car can pass and still need work.
When you typically need one
- Registering a vehicle new to the ACT (e.g. brought in from interstate).
- Re-registering a vehicle whose rego has lapsed.
- Certain older-vehicle or transfer situations — check the current rules.
Why it matters when buying or selling
If you're buying, a current rego with plenty of time left is money you don't have to spend soon. If you're selling, sorting rego and a recent inspection can make your car easier to sell and support your asking price.
💡 Buying and not sure what a car will cost to keep on the road? Tell us what you're after and local dealers will factor rego and readiness into their offer.