Exemption from compliance with a heavy vehicle standard

This application is for operators or owners of heavy vehicles who are seeking an exemption from compliance with a heavy vehicle standard.

Before you apply for an exemption permit 

  • DO NOT complete an Exemption permit application if you have completed a Modification application.
  • Read the NHVR Code of Practice for the Approval of Heavy Vehicle Modifications (PDF, 506KB) to check if the exemption you are requesting is included as a modification in the Code.
  • Consider seeking advice from a vehicle modifier, an AVE or the NHVR regarding your exemption.
  • Ensure your application includes all additional information (for example, engineer’s reports, photos, diagrams or schematics) to help us assess your application.
  • Consider if the vehicle will also require an access permit.*
  • Consider whether the vehicle registration will be affected by the exemption (permit). For advice, contact your state or territory road transport authority.*

A Vehicle Standards Exemption (permit):

  • Can be granted to one or more vehicles.
  • Can be valid for a period of up to three years.
  • Cannot be issued where a complying vehicle can perform the same task.
  • May be issued to an experimental or prototype vehicle that could not reasonably comply with the vehicle standards regulations.

Please note: If you have an existing exemption permit that was issued by a jurisdiction and you want to apply for a new permit, amend the permit or transfer ownership of the vehicle, please send your new permit application to the NHVR before the existing permit expires and include the permit you are renewing, amending or transferring.

I'm ready to apply for an exemption permit

Apply for an exemption permit renewal or transfer of ownership through the NHVR Portal.

  • An application cannot be submitted unless all sections are complete, and all relevant documents have been attached in the NHVR Portal.
  • An operator or owner can register a third-party service provider on their portal account to manage this process on their behalf.
  • Operators or owners who have an existing exemption permit issued by the NHVR can apply to have the permit renewed, amended, or cancelled.

You can track the progress of an application in the NHVR portal. If we need additional information to help with our assessment, we will request this in the NHVR Portal and you will receive a notification by email. We will consider our approved guidelines, vehicle standards, and any safety issues to decide if the application can be granted.

*Please note: Some vehicle standards exemptions may require road access conditions to be applied. You will be advised if a separate application for an access permit is needed. Conditions may also be applied to the vehicle’s registration, and you should consult with your registering authority.

What are the Approved Guidelines for Granting Vehicle Standards Exemptions?

The Approved Guidelines for Granting Vehicle Standards Exemptions (PDF, 364KB) outlines what we require to be satisfied that the use of heavy vehicles operating under a Vehicle Standards Exemption permit or notice does not pose a significant safety risk.

It also provides guidance on the policies and processes used by the NHVR and the factors considered in making a decision on the grant of a vehicle standards exemption.