A pink slip is not a registration certificate but an important document proving a vehicle has been registered.

A pink slip for a car in NSW is a notification that the vehicle has been registered with the state's transport authority, Roads and Maritime Services (RMS). It is a mandatory annual safety inspection report for all motor vehicles registered in New South Wales. The slip will show the make and model of the car, its registration number, the expiry date of the registration and other information. It will also have a unique identifier barcode that can be used to check the history of the car.

How much does a pink slip cost in NSW?

In NSW, the cost of a pink slip inspection is set at $42 and includes the mechanic's time to examine your car, and lodge the report electronically to the RMS.

Note that you must get a blue slip if you own an unregistered vehicle or if you are importing one into New South Wales. The blue slip inspection ascertains the identity standards of the unregistered vehicle.

Also, light vehicles older than 5 years whose licence has expired for more than 3 months must pass a blue slip inspection.

What is an eSafety check?

An eSafety check is a free inspection performed at authorised inspection stations that allows you to check the history of your car and see if it has been reported stolen or written off. You can also find out if your car's safety features, such as AEB, have been recalled and how long it will be before its next safety certification.

How do I get an eSafety check?

You can get an eSafety check for registration renewal purposes at authorised inspection stations. Make a booking with the service centre before taking the vehicle for inspection.

  • Visit an auto electrical mechanic for an e-safety check; or

  • Use the RMS website to request a printout of your vehicle's identification number (VIN), registration details and current status.

What should I do if my car fails the eSafety check?

If your car fails the eSafety check, you must have the issues repaired and re-tested before renewing your registration. You may also need to get a new safety certificate from an authorised certifier and possibly even have the car towed to your home to await parts or to another garage.

What do I need for a pink slip?

In order to get a pink slip for a car in NSW, the vehicle must be inspected by a mechanic and meet specific requirements. These include:

  • The car must have current registration and plates.

  • The car must be roadworthy and have no outstanding defects.

  • The car must be fitted with approved seatbelts and child restraints (if required); and

  • The driver must hold a valid licence.

If your car fails to meet any of these requirements, you will not be able to register it and need to get it fixed before applying for a pink slip.

Do all vehicles require pink slip inspections?

Yes. In New South Wales (NSW), a pink slip inspection is a legal requirement for all vehicles before they can be registered or before registration renewal. This includes cars, motorcycles, all light vehicles, 4WDs and RVs. Trailers and some caravans are exempt from the pink slip inspection. Check which trailers qualify for this exemption with your service centre mechanic or the RMS guidelines. You may also need to get a pink slip if you are transferring the registration of a car after buying or selling.

How often do I need to get a pink slip for my car?

Pink slips must be renewed annually. You will need to get a new one each year in order to keep your car registered.

What happens if I fail my pink slip?

If you don't get a pink slip for your car, the RMS will not register it, and it will not be allowed on the road. If you try to drive it, chances are the police will be involved. It is therefore essential to make sure that you get a pink slip inspection done each year and renew your registration on time.

What happens if my vehicle fails its inspection?

If your car fails its vehicle inspection, you will need to get it repaired and re-tested before you can renew your registration. The inspection station repairs needed report will detail all required repairs. You may also need to get a new safety certificate from an authorised certifier. If your car is not roadworthy, the RMS may refuse to register it, or you may be fined. It is therefore important to make sure that your vehicle is roadworthy before you take it in for a pink slip inspection. These are the areas that can make your vehicle fail the pink slips test at the inspection station:

  • Nonfunctional interior lights.

  • Failed dash lights.

  • Leaking driveline fluid.

  • Worn tyres that are due for replacement.

  • Seat belts that aren't working properly.

  • Broken head or brake lights.

What is a green slip?

A green slip is a compulsory third party insurance product that provides cover for the cost of personal injury to others if you are involved in a car accident. Green slips are also known as Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance in most states. It is mandatory to purchase at least CPT insurance before registration renewal.

How much do green slips cost in NSW?

In NSW, the average price of a green slip can range from about $500 to over $1,000, depending on the type and make of your vehicle. This is because it uses a rating system based on factors such as age and the value of your car, with older cars costing more to insure.

How often do I need to get a green slip inspection?

In NSW, you must have current green slip insurance at all times when driving your car and it needs to be renewed annually.

What is the difference between a pink slip and a green slip?

A pink slip is a vehicle inspection certificate that is required in NSW before a car can be registered. A green slip is a type of insurance that provides cover for the cost of personal injury to others if you are involved in a car accident. For more information on green slips, take a look at the NSW State Insurance Regulatory Authority.