PBS approval process flow chart

If you would like a more in depth instructions on this process, see the PBS approval process guide.

Investigate your options

• Consult with a PBS Assessor about your vehicle concept.
• Use the NHVR Route Planner to view existing PBS networks.
• Check if your proposed vehicle would be able to operate under an existing notice.
• Consider lodging an In-Principal PBS access application. In-Principal approval indicates that once your vehicle has been built and PBS-approved, the road manager is likely to grant access.

Vehicle assessment

• Engage a PBS Assessor to assess the vehicle design to the PBS standards. Fees will apply.
• The PBS Assessor will submit an application to the NHVR for a Design Approval (DA).

PBS Design Approval (DA)

• Depending on the complexity of the application, the NHVR may send the application to the PBS Review Panel (the Panel) for advice.
• If sent to the Panel, the NHVR will consider its advice but will make a final decision on the design application.
• If approved, the NHVR issues a PBS Design Approval.

Source the combination and certify

• Source the vehicle combination in accordance with the Design Approval specification.
• Engage a PBS Certifier to inspect the vehicle. Fees will apply.
• The PBS Certifier will submit a Vehicle Approval application along with a certification report to the NHVR.

PBS Vehicle Approval (VA)

• NHVR reviews the certification report and, provided the vehicle complies with the Design Approval, issues a PBS Vehicle Approval.
• The Vehicle Approval will show the VINs of the vehicles approved, the approved level of access, associated masses and operating conditions.

Apply for access

• The Vehicle Approval is not an authorisation to access the road network. PBS combinations must comply with the relevant notice or obtain an access permit.

NHVR PBS contacts

• For questions about PBS Design Approvals, contact our engineering team at pbsdesigns@nhvr.gov.au
• For questions about PBS Vehicle Approvals, contact our operations team at pbs@nhvr.gov.au
• For questions about access and permits to operate your PBS vehicle on the road, contact us