Want to offer WoF inspections at your workshop? Becoming a certified vehicle inspector in New Zealand requires specific qualifications, NZTA approval, and the right equipment. This guide walks you through the entire process.
Offering Warrant of Fitness inspections is a valuable service that brings regular customers to your workshop. Here's everything you need to know about becoming a WoF inspector in 2025.
Exam Pass Mark
22/25
theory test questions
Training Success
95%
pass rate with courses
Appointment
5 Years
certification period
⚠️ Two Types of Appointments
There are two separate appointments you need to understand:
Vehicle Inspector (VI)
The person who performs and signs off inspections. This is what this guide covers.
Inspecting Organisation (IO)
The business/site that is approved to conduct inspections. Required before VIs can work there.
↓ In this guide
📋 Entry Requirements
To become a WoF Vehicle Inspector in New Zealand, you must meet these requirements:
Automotive Qualification
You need evidence of qualifications or experience as an automotive technician. This typically means:
- • NZ Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 4), or
- • National Certificate in Motor Industry (Automotive Engineering), or
- • Equivalent overseas qualification assessed by NZQA, or
- • Demonstrated experience in automotive repairs and maintenance
Practical Experience
NZTA looks for evidence that you've carried out repairs and maintenance to all safety aspects of motor vehicles, including:
- • Brakes and suspension
- • Steering components
- • Vehicle structure and chassis
- • Glazing (windscreens, windows)
- • Lighting and electrical systems
- • External projections and body
Driver Licence
You must hold a current NZ driver licence for the class of vehicles you want to inspect. For light vehicles (WoF), a Class 1 licence is sufficient.
Fit and Proper Person
NZTA will conduct a fit and proper person check. This includes criminal history and may affect your application if you have certain convictions.
Inspecting Organisation
You must work for (or operate) an NZTA-appointed Inspecting Organisation (IO). Your site must be approved before you can be appointed as a VI.
📚 Training & The WoF Exam
The Theory Test
The NZTA WoF theory test is an open-book exam based on the Vehicle Inspection Requirements Manual (VIRM). Here's what you need to know:
25
Questions
22
Correct to pass (88%)
Open
Book format (VIRM)
Training Course Options
While training isn't mandatory, it's highly recommended. Trained candidates have a 95% first-time pass rate. Here are your options:
VI Training
Specialist WoF and CoF training provider with courses nationwide.
- • Combined theory and practical learning
- • Prepares for NZTA assessments
- • Courses across NZ
Otago Polytechnic
WOF Inspectors Training Course with 50/50 theory and practical.
- • Includes mock exam paper
- • Certificate of Attendance on completion
- • NZTA application fee covered (~$495 + GST)
1st Call WOF Consult (FCWCA)
12-week self-paced online programme with 20 modules.
- • Comprehensive VIRM coverage
- • Learn at your own pace
- • Online delivery
itsallauto.com
Free online training and mock exams.
- • Mock exams matching NZTA format
- • 25 questions, same structure as real test
- • Good for practice alongside other training
📖 The VIRM is Your Bible
The Vehicle Inspection Requirements Manual (VIRM) contains everything you need to know. It's available free online at vehicleinspection.nzta.govt.nz. Study it thoroughly – you'll be using it during the open-book exam.
📝 The Application Process
Here's the step-by-step process to become a WoF Vehicle Inspector:
Ensure Your Site is an Approved IO
Your workshop must be an approved Inspecting Organisation before you can apply as a VI. If it's not, the business owner needs to apply first (IOAPP form).
Complete Training (Recommended)
While not mandatory, completing a training course significantly improves your chances of passing the exam first time.
Submit Your Application (VI1 Form)
Download the VI1 form from NZTA's website. Include:
- • Evidence of qualifications (certificates, NZQA records)
- • Evidence of experience (employment history, references)
- • Copy of your driver licence
- • Details of your Inspecting Organisation
Note: From 4 November 2025, this form will be available online.
NZTA Assesses Your Application
NZTA reviews your application and checks if you meet the requirements. They'll also conduct a fit and proper person check.
Sit the Theory Test
If your application is approved, NZTA will schedule your theory test. Remember: 25 questions, you need 22 correct to pass. Open-book (VIRM allowed).
Practical Assessment
After passing the theory test, you'll complete a practical assessment demonstrating your inspection skills.
Receive Your Appointment
If successful, you'll be appointed as a WoF Vehicle Inspector for 5 years. You'll receive your Notice of Appointment and can begin conducting inspections.
🔧 Site & Equipment Requirements
Your inspection premises must meet specific NZTA requirements:
Inspection Area Requirements
Building Requirements
- ✓ Permanent building with roof, walls, and doors
- ✓ Smooth concrete or tarseal floor
- ✓ Level ground (vehicles stay stationary with brakes off)
- ✓ Sufficient lighting for inspections
- ✓ Clear of obstructions (except hoist)
Compliance Requirements
- ✓ Health and Safety Act compliance
- ✓ Relevant local bylaws and regulations
- ✓ Equipment maintained in good repair
- ✓ Computer connection to NZTA systems
Essential WoF Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Hoist, Pit, or Ramp | Under-vehicle inspection | Must allow comfortable walking underneath |
| Brake Testing Equipment | Service and parking brake tests | Roller brake machine or road test facility |
| Headlight Aim Tester | Check headlight alignment | Calibrated equipment required |
| Calibrated Measuring Equipment | Brake disc/rotor measurements | For disc runout, thickness, ovality |
| Tyre Tread Depth Gauge | Measure remaining tread | Minimum 1.5mm legal requirement |
| Computer with Internet | Connect to NZTA VIC system | Must use approved connection method |
💰 Costs Involved
Here's what you can expect to pay:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Training Course | $500 - $1,500 |
| NZTA Application Fee (theory + practical test) | ~$495 + GST |
| IO Application (if not already approved) | Additional fees apply |
| Professional Indemnity Insurance | ~$1,000/year |
| Typical Total (individual) | $1,500 - $3,000 |
📊 After You're Appointed
Once you're a certified WoF inspector, you have ongoing responsibilities:
Your Responsibilities
- • Follow all VIRM requirements
- • Maintain accurate inspection records
- • Stay current with VIRM updates
- • Report any issues to NZTA
- • Maintain your insurance
- • Keep your driver licence current
Reappointment
- • Appointments last 5 years
- • NZTA sends reminder emails before expiry
- • Complete IORPT form for reappointment
- • From early 2026, some will need to reapply
⚠️ Take It Seriously
WoF inspections are a safety-critical responsibility. Issuing an incorrect WoF can result in:
- • Suspension or loss of your appointment
- • Legal liability if the vehicle is involved in an accident
- • Damage to your professional reputation
- • Potential criminal charges in serious cases
🔧
Running a WoF station?
Hoist helps WoF stations manage inspections, track customers, and integrate with Xero. NZTA vehicle lookups built-in.
Start Free Trial❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a WoF inspector in NZ? ▼
The process typically takes 2-4 months from application to appointment. This includes NZTA processing your application, completing training, sitting the theory test, and completing the practical assessment. Training courses can be completed in 1-12 weeks depending on the provider.
What qualifications do I need to become a WoF inspector? ▼
You need an automotive qualification such as the NZ Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 4) or equivalent, plus evidence of practical experience in vehicle repairs and maintenance covering all safety systems. A current driver licence for the vehicle class you want to inspect is also required.
How hard is the WoF inspector theory test? ▼
The test has 25 questions and you need 22 correct (88%) to pass. It's an open-book exam, so you can reference the VIRM manual. With proper preparation and training, pass rates are around 95%. The key is knowing the VIRM well enough to find information quickly.
How much does it cost to become a WoF inspector? ▼
Expect to spend $1,500-$3,000 in total. This includes training ($500-$1,500), NZTA application and testing fees (~$495+GST), and professional indemnity insurance (~$1,000/year). If your workshop isn't already an approved Inspecting Organisation, additional site approval fees apply.
Can I do WoF inspections at any workshop? ▼
No, you can only conduct WoF inspections at an NZTA-approved Inspecting Organisation (IO). Your VI appointment is linked to a specific site. If you change employers, your new workplace must also be an approved IO, and you'll need to update your appointment details with NZTA.
Sources & Official Resources
- • NZTA Vehicle Inspection Portal – Official source for all VI/IO information
- • VIRM: In-service certification – The official inspection requirements manual
- • VI1 Application Form – WoF inspector application
- • VI Training – Professional training provider
- • itsallauto.com – Free mock exams and training