On this page:
- What is a non-RAV entry import approval?
- Why do I need an approval to import my vehicle?
- Who can apply for a non-RAV entry import approval?
- How do I apply?
- What is the Register of Approved Vehicles?
- Resources
What is a non-RAV entry import approval?
Before you import a road vehicle into Australia you must first be granted approval by the department.
A non-RAV entry import approval allows you to import a vehicle that is not eligible to be entered on the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV) for a specific purpose or temporary period (12 months or less) if, during that period, it will not be used on a public road or only used on a public road in exceptional circumstances.
For example, you can apply for a non-RAV entry import approval for a vehicle to be used in a public exhibition or race.
Before applying for an approval, you should read the non-RAV entry import approval guide. It explains how to apply and outlines the eligibility requirements. Full details of non-RAV entry import approvals are in the Road Vehicle Standards Rules 2019 (the Rules), sections 147 to 158.
Why do I need an approval to import my vehicle?
Under section 22 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (RVSA) it is an offence to import a road vehicle into Australia without an approval.
Who can apply for a non-RAV entry import approval?
Any person may apply for a non-RAV entry import approval. An agent may also apply on behalf of the applicant. To apply for a non-RAV entry import approval you (or your agent) must first create an account in ROVER and supply identification details.
The eligibility requirements for a non-RAV entry import approval are set out in sections 151 and 152 of the Rules.
How do I apply?
You must submit an application for an import approval before importing the vehicle. The department manages the approval process through ROVER, its online application and approval portal. Allow enough time to apply for your application to be assessed before your planned importation date. It may take up to 30 business days for an import approval application to be assessed and a decision made.
What is the Register of Approved Vehicles?
The RAV is an online database of vehicles that meet the requirements of the RVS legislation and have been approved for provision to the Australian market.
Once entered on the RAV, a vehicle is available for registration by a state or territory registration authority (pending the regulatory requirements of the particular state or territory).
The RAV is a publicly searchable database.