​

WoF inspection frequency

          New Vehicle

           An initial WoF inspection, another one at three years old, then one per year for the lifetime of the vehicle

 

           Vehicle first registered anywhere in the world on or after 1 January 2000

           One per year for the lifetime of the vehicle

 

           Vehicle first registered anywhere in the world before 1 January 2000

           One every six months for the lifetime of the vehicle

​

Research shows that over 12 years old, the percentage of vehicles involved in crashes with warrant of fitness defects, while still very low, starts to increase. The data also shows that the increase for older vehicles is falling over time as vehicle quality improves.

​

What motorists can do to keep their vehicles safe

There are several simple things motorists can do to keep their vehicle in roadworthy condition. These include:

• checking tyres for depth of tread, punctures or cracks

• keeping tyres at their recommended pressure

• making sure a vehicle's brakes and lights are working properly, and

• checking to ensure their windscreen is free of chips that could affect the driver's vision.

 

Further information

• Background information, including research and technical reports, is available on the Ministry of Transport's website.