Correct as at 29th March 2024. It may be superseded at any time.

Extract taken from: Vehicle Inspection Portal > VIRMs > Light vehicle repair certification > Introduction > Appointments

6 Appointments

To be appointed to inspect and certify repairs, the candidate must meet the requirements of this section.

The candidate must:

a) be qualified as a panel beater with a National Certificate in panel beating or another qualification considered to be the equivalent by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority

b) have at least 10 years experience in panel beating or vehicle repair

c) have access to the premises and equipment necessary to certify repairs

d) have sound knowledge of all technical aspects relating to the assessment of repairs, including:

i. the assessment of specialist reports, for example chassis measurement sheets, motorcycle frame measurement sheets, SRS and ABS reports, wheel alignment reports, etc

ii. the assessment of the suitability of repair methods and their effect on other components and systems

e) have knowledge of requirements specified in the VIRM: Light vehicle repair certification

f) be a fit and proper person (section 2.6 of the Rule); the criteria considered with any application include:

i. relevant criminal convictions

ii. transport-related offences

iii. relevant warnings, penalties and disciplinary actions imposed

iv. relevant complaints

v. the interests of the public and land transport safety

g) hold a current driver licence for the class(es) of vehicles to be inspected

h) be eligible for any required insurance cover

i) sit and pass any relevant examination deemed appropriate for the certification category being applied for.

Application packs may be obtained from, and applications must be made to:

Vehicle Inspections
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency
Private Bag 11777
Palmerston North 4442

Phone 0800 587 287

Page amended 1 April 2021 (see amendment details).