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Defect notice clearance

A defect notice is a formal written direction from a police officer or transport inspector requiring you to fix specific faults on your vehicle within a stated deadline. The notice lists every defect, the rectification window, and any driving restrictions. To clear it, the listed faults must be rectified and re-inspected by an authorised inspector before the deadline, usually 14 to 28 days from issue.

Yellow, blue and canary stickers

Yellow, minor defect

The vehicle remains drivable in normal conditions. Items like worn tyres, blown bulbs, exhaust noise. Rectify and re-inspect within the deadline.

Blue, major defect

The vehicle is restricted, usually only drivable directly to a workshop or inspection station. Brakes, structural rust, severe suspension damage.

Canary, grounded

The vehicle cannot be driven on the road at all. It must be towed. Reserved for serious safety defects and unregistered vehicles caught in operation.

What to do

  1. Read the notice. Every defect must be rectified, there is no partial clearance. Note the deadline and any driving restrictions.
  2. Get the work done. Take the notice to a mechanic for a quote on the listed items. Keep all receipts.
  3. Book a clearance inspection. Most mobile roadworthy operators clear defect notices. Confirm the operator holds the right state authorisation.
  4. Submit the cleared notice to the relevant transport authority within the deadline if your state does not auto-lodge.

Find a clearance provider near you

Pick your state, then find a suburb to see mobile inspectors who handle defect clearances.

New South Wales
NSW
Victoria
VIC
Queensland
QLD
Western Australia
WA
South Australia
SA
Tasmania
TAS
Northern Territory
NT
Australian Capital Territory
ACT

Popular metropolitan suburbs

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Pakenham
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Port Macquarie
NSW · 2444
Werribee
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Glen Waverley
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Castle Hill
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Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to clear a defect notice?
Typically 14 to 28 days from the date of issue, depending on the state and the severity of the defects listed. The exact deadline is printed on the notice.
Can a mobile inspector clear my defect?
In most states, yes. The inspector who clears a defect must hold the relevant state authorisation, confirm at booking that the operator handles defect clearances rather than just standard roadworthies.
What is the difference between yellow and blue stickers?
Yellow is a minor defect, drive as normal but rectify within the deadline. Blue is a major defect with restricted use, typically only to and from a workshop or inspection. Canary is grounded, must be towed.
How much does a defect clearance cost?
Most operators charge within $20 of a standard roadworthy fee. The inspector still has to inspect the listed items against the regulator standard and produce certified paperwork.
What if I miss the deadline?
The notice can be upgraded to a more severe category, registration can be suspended, and police can re-inspect on the spot. Contact the relevant transport authority before the deadline expires if you genuinely cannot meet it.
Can I clear the defect with any mechanic?
A mechanic can do the rectification work, but the formal clearance requires an authorised inspector. Some workshops have inspectors on staff and can do both in one visit.