Pink Slip (eSafety Check) in NSW: What You Need to Know

If your vehicle in New South Wales is more than five years old, you’ll need a pink slip before you can renew your registration. Here’s how it works, explained simply.

What is a pink slip?

A “pink slip” is the common name for an eSafety inspection — a safety check that confirms your vehicle is roadworthy. In NSW these inspections are carried out by Authorised Inspection Stations (AIS) and the result is lodged electronically with Transport for NSW.

Do I need one?

Generally:

• Light vehicles over 5 years old need an annual eSafety (pink slip) inspection before registration renewal.
• Vehicles 5 years old or newer usually don’t require one for renewal (check your renewal notice).

Your registration renewal notice will tell you whether an inspection is required.

What’s checked during the inspection?

An eSafety inspection focuses on safety-critical items, including:

• Brakes and brake components
• Steering and suspension
• Tyres and wheels (tread depth and condition)
• Lights and indicators
• Windscreen, wipers and washers
• Seatbelts
• Body condition and structural rust
• Exhaust and emissions (visible smoke/leaks)

It is not a mechanical health check of your whole car — it’s a pass/fail safety standard.

What if my car fails?

If your vehicle doesn’t pass, you’ll receive a report listing the items that need attention. You then have a window (typically 14 days) to repair the faults and return for a re-check, often at no additional inspection cost at the same station. As an established workshop we can both inspect and carry out any required repairs in one place.

Tips to pass first time

• Check all your lights and replace any blown globes
• Top up washer fluid and replace worn wiper blades
• Check tyre tread (minimum 1.5mm across the tread)
• Address any warning lights before you arrive

Sources & disclaimer

This is general guidance only and current arrangements may change. For the official rules, inspection requirements and current fees, refer to Transport for NSW (nsw.gov.au) and Service NSW. Always check your individual registration renewal notice.

Need a pink slip in Mascot? Book an inspection or call us.