A Guide to Warrant of Fitness in New Zealand

Ensuring the Safety of Your Vehicle

As proud car owners in New Zealand, it’s essential to prioritise the safety and reliability of our vehicles, especially older ones. One crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance is the Warrant of Fitness (WoF). In this blog, we will explore the significance of WoF inspections, address common concerns, and provide you with essential information to ensure your vehicle’s compliance with safety standards. 

What is a Warrant of Fitness?

A Warrant of Fitness (WoF) is a legal document that certifies your vehicle’s roadworthiness. It ensures that your car meets the required safety and emission standards set by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA). A WoF is represented by a sticker placed on your vehicle’s windscreen. 

How often do you need a Warrant of Fitness?Tyres

For vehicles first registered on or after 1st January 2000, a WoF inspection is required every 12 months. However, older vehicles, registered before 1st January 2000, need a WoF inspection every 6 months. Regular checks are essential to maintain the safety of both the driver and other road users. 

Can I drive with an expired WoF?

No, it is illegal to drive a vehicle without a valid WoF unless you are taking it to a testing station for inspection or taking it somewhere for repair – provided it’s safe to do so. 

The specific penalties for driving without a valid WoF can vary, but they typically involve fines and demerit points on your driver’s license. 

What does a Warrant of Fitness show?

During a WoF inspection, a certified inspector assesses various safety components of your vehicle. These components include tyre condition, brakes, lights, suspension, steering, and other vital aspects. Additionally, the inspector checks for visible smoke emissions and examines the structural integrity of the vehicle. A thorough WoF inspection aims to identify any potential safety hazards. 

What happens if you fail a Warrant of Fitness?

If your vehicle fails the WoF inspection, you will receive a report outlining the issues that need to be addressed. You have 28 days from the initial assessment to rectify the areas of concern and make the necessary repairs to meet the required standards for re-inspection. It is crucial to promptly address these issues to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.  

How much does it cost for a Warrant of Fitness?

The cost of a WoF inspection can vary depending on the testing station and the make and model of your vehicle. On average, the price ranges from $50 to $70. Remember, investing in a WoF inspection is a small price to pay for peace of mind and road safety. Consider it an investment in your own safety and the safety of others. 

What about a Certificate of Fitness (CoP) for passenger service and rental vehicles?

In New Zealand, the Certificate of Fitness (CoF) is primarily required for commercial vehicles to comply with legal and regulatory requirements set by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and other relevant authorities. If you operate a passenger service vehicle, such as taxis, buses, or shuttles, or if you rent out vehicles, these vehicles need to undergo more frequent and rigorous inspections to ensure the safety of passengers. 

Maintaining the safety of our vehicles is of utmost importance for all New Zealanders. The Warrant of Fitness (WoF) plays a vital role in ensuring that our cars meet the necessary safety standards. By adhering to the WoF inspection schedule, not only do you stay on the right side of the law, but you also ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and minimise the risk of accidents. So, stay proactive, prioritise vehicle maintenance, and drive with confidence, knowing that your vehicle is in good shape. 

Please keep in mind that specific requirements and regulations may change over time, so it’s always advisable to consult the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) or their official website for the most up-to-date information regarding the Warrant of Fitness, Certificate of Fitness, and their purposes. 

Drive Safe & Happy Motoring!