What Is a Pink Slip? NSW eSafety Check Guide

A pink slip — officially an eSafety check — is a roadworthiness inspection required by Service NSW to renew registration on vehicles that are more than five years old. Without a current pink slip, you cannot renew your rego online or in person.

What Does the eSafety Check Cover?

The inspector checks that your vehicle meets minimum safety standards. This includes brakes, tyres and wheels, steering and suspension, lights and signals, windows and windscreen, seatbelts, horn, and general vehicle structure. It is not a full mechanical inspection — a vehicle can pass a pink slip and still have maintenance items due.

How Long Does It Take?

Most pink slips are completed in 20–30 minutes. The result is submitted electronically to Service NSW, and if the vehicle passes, you can renew your rego immediately through MyServiceNSW, online, or at a Service NSW centre.

What Happens If My Car Fails?

If the vehicle does not meet the safety standard, you receive a written defect list explaining what failed. You then have 14 days to have the faults repaired and present the vehicle for re-inspection — at the same station without an additional fee, in most cases. We can usually repair common failures (brakes, tyres, lights) the same day.

How Much Does a Pink Slip Cost?

Pink slip fees are set by the NSW Government. As of 2026, the maximum fee is $42 for a vehicle inspection. Some stations charge less. We charge $45 all-in, which includes a complimentary safety check beyond the minimum eSafety requirement — so you know what else may be due.