Steps to follow
-
1
Step 1: Check you’re eligible
To register a vehicle that doesn't comply with Australian Design Rules and vehicle standards you must:
- be an eligible operator of an approved operator group*
- ensure the vehicle meets the minimum construction requirements for its body type.
We can’t approve conditional registration for a vehicle if:
- there are no suitable operating conditions that will make the vehicle safe for travelling on the road
- a vehicle with standard registration could complete the required tasks.
See if your special work vehicle is eligible for registration and information on operating conditions on the Transport Victoria website.
*Approved operator groups are groups that VicRoads accepts have an occupational use for non-compliant vehicles associated with their functions.
Unlike other non-compliant vehicles, terminal tractors are not pre-approved by VicRoads for use.
If you want to register and use a terminal tractor on Victorian Roads, you must apply in writing to [email protected] and include:
- the applicant's name and licence/client number
- the vehicle's make, model, year of manufacture and serial/chassis number
- colour photos of the vehicle
- annotated maps showing where the vehicle will be used
- the intended use of the vehicle
- why a traditional prime mover would not be suitable for the tasks
- any other special consideration that VicRoads should be aware of.
-
2
Step 2: Prepare your documentation
First, we recommend gathering the documents you’ll need as part of your application. This will help prevent any delays.
You’ll need the following:
- a completed Machinery registration pack (PDF)
- evidence of what operator group you belong to
- evidence of your identity
- a letter of authority if you are registering on behalf of a company or person
- if it’s a heavy vehicle that’s not an Agricultural or a Special Purpose Vehicle (non-load carrying), you’ll also need a Heavy Vehicle Standards Exemption Permit (HVSEP).
-
3
Step 3: Book your appointment
You can make an appointment by either:
When you make your appointment, you’ll need to tell us:
- the vehicle identification number (VIN) /chassis number
- the engine number
- the registration plate number (if applicable).
You'll need to pay the applicable fees depending on your vehicle. This may include:
-
4
Step 4: After conditional registration approval
Your vehicle’s conditions of registration are outlined on your Certificate of Approved Operations. You must carry this in your vehicle at all times.
Some of the specific conditions for your vehicle may include:
- restricted speed limits
- restricted hours of use
- requiring an escort vehicle
- restricted areas of use or restricted routes
- requiring additional protective gear for vehicle users.
VicRoads can impose any reasonable condition to make sure that roads remain safe for all road users.
What if my vehicle isn’t eligible?
If the vehicle is not used by an approved operator group, or you want to use the vehicle outside the standard conditions, you must submit a special written application.
This must include:
- your name and licence/client number
- the vehicle's make, model, year of manufacture and serial/chassis number
- colour photos of the vehicle
- annotated maps showing where the vehicle will be used
- the intended use of the vehicle
- any other special considerations that we should be aware of.
Email your applications to [email protected].
Registering a construction vehicle
Learn more about registering a construction vehicle on Transport Victoria’s website: