When is my WOF due?
Many cars move to a WOF every two years from 1 November 2026. Enter when your car was first registered and the date on your WOF label, and we'll show every WOF due date for the next six years.
What changes on 1 November 2026
These rules cover cars, vans, utes and SUVs (light vehicles). Your current WOF stays valid until the date on the label. The new frequency starts at your first inspection after the change.
| Your vehicle | Before 1 November 2026 | From 1 November 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand new | Second WOF at 3 years old | Second WOF at 4 years old |
| First registered on or after 1 Nov 2019, under 14 years old | Every year | Every 2 years |
| First registered 1 Nov 2013 to 31 Oct 2019, under 14 years old | Every year | Every year, then every 2 years from 1 Nov 2027 |
| 14 to 26 years old | Every year | Every year (no change) |
| First registered before 2000 | Every 6 months | Every year |
Also new at the WOF: inspectors check that no warning light shows for automatic emergency braking or lane keep assist, on cars that have them. Motorcycles first registered before 2000 also move from every 6 months to every year.
Fewer WOFs means more checks are up to you
A WOF only says the car was safe on the day it was inspected. With two years between inspections, these are the things to keep an eye on yourself.
Tyres, every month
Check the pressure and the tread. The legal minimum is 1.5 mm, but grip in the wet drops well before that. Many shops suggest replacing at about 3 mm.
Lights and wipers, every few weeks
Walk around the car with the lights on. Replace wiper blades once a year, or when they smear.
Servicing, as the maker says
Brakes, steering and suspension get checked at a proper service. Keep up the schedule in your car's handbook, and log each one in My garage.
Questions drivers ask about the new WOF rules
When do the new WOF rules start?
1 November 2026. Light vehicles first registered on or after 1 November 2019 move to a WOF every two years from that date. Vehicles first registered between 1 November 2013 and 31 October 2019 follow from 1 November 2027.
Does my current WOF change on 1 November?
No. Your current WOF stays valid until the date on the label. The new frequency applies from your first inspection after the rules take effect.
How often does a new car need a WOF?
From 1 November 2026, a new light vehicle's second WOF is due at four years instead of three. After that it needs one every two years until it is 14 years old.
How often does a car over 14 years old need a WOF?
Every year. Cars 14 to 26 years old stay on a yearly WOF. Cars first registered before 2000 move from every six months to every year from 1 November 2026.
Is anything new checked at a WOF?
Yes. From 1 November 2026 inspectors also check that no warning light shows for automatic emergency braking or lane keep assist on cars that have them.
If my WOF lasts two years, does my car still need checks?
Yes. You are responsible for keeping the car safe between WOFs. Check tyres, lights, wipers and brakes regularly, and keep up with servicing.
Book a WOF near you
AutoPlace Approved WOF stations across Auckland, with local average prices and free booking.
Source: NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, Changes to light vehicle inspections from 1 November 2026. This checker is a guide. Your WOF inspector confirms the actual expiry date, and it is printed on your label and WOF record.
Any safety recalls on your car?
Car makers recall cars to fix safety faults, like faulty airbags. The fix is free at the brand's dealer, but many owners never hear about it.
Nothing to do. Check again each year, and before you buy a car.
Call the brand's dealer with your plate. The fix is free, and you don't need to have bought the car there.
Stop driving the car. These airbags can seriously injure people. The dealer fixes it free. Get a tow or read NZTA's advice.
RightCar is the government's free vehicle site, run by NZTA. Soon AutoPlace will check this for you from your plate.