Introduction
The Vehicle Safety Compliance Certification Scheme (VSCCS) licenses competent people to inspect non-standard vehicles and certify compliance with the relevant vehicle safety standards.
Eligibility
You need at least a certificate IV in a relevant discipline (like engineering or automotive).
Generally, trade certificates do not meet the minimum requirement of a certificate IV.
What you need
To apply for a Vehicle Safety Compliance certifier licence you need:
- the PDF form – 'Application for a Certifier's Licence'
- certified copies of your qualifications
- certified copies of your proof of identity
- your fee payment.
Insurance
As a certifier, you need to hold:
- $20 million public liability insurance and
- $5 million professional indemnity insurance.
This insurance is available under Transport for NSW Principal Arranged Insurance cover. Alternatively, you can operate under your own insurance, if it meets the required criteria.
How to apply
- Read the Guide to becoming a VSCCS certifier – PDF guide.
- Select the 'Download PDF form' button.
- Complete the form and gather your supporting documents.
- Submit your application using the details on the form.
What happens next
Transport for NSW will assess your application using the following process:
- Preliminary review: This includes an initial review of your qualifications, experience, and compliance with fit and proper person requirements and a criminal record check
- Online survey: A preliminary knowledge check to gauge your foundational understanding and key competencies
- Scenario submission: A more detailed written activity designed to assess practical decision-making and technical expertise
- Face-to-face interview: The final stage to qualify credentials and competency.
This process takes time and you will be kept informed of your progress at each stage.
Fees and payments
Under the Vehicle Safety Compliance Certification Scheme Transport for NSW charges:
- an application fee and
- an annual fee for certification.
The application fee is non-refundable.
Fees also apply for administration functions and insurance. Learn more at Vehicle examiners, certifiers and assessors – fees.
Contact
If you have any questions about your application for a Vehicle Safety Compliance certifier licence or the proof of identity documents you need you can:
- send an email to ais@transport.nsw.gov.au or
- call 13 22 13.