Transport Inspectors

Transport Inspectors are highly trained employees of the Queensland Government—they play an important role in contributing to Safer Drivers, Safer Vehicles and Safer Roads, and also protecting the state's valuable road infrastructure.

Transport Inspectors perform a wide range of functions including:

• providing information and education to industry and road users
• audits and investigations of Approved Inspection Stations
• load restraint checking on light vehicles
• undertake safety inspections in relation to light vehicles
• checking of dangerous goods loads transported by light vehicles
• passenger (buses and tour operators) and personalised (taxi, limousine and ride share) transport checking and enforcement
• investigation of some tow truck complaints
• disaster management and asset protection.

Transport Inspectors use body worn cameras to capture interactions with members of the public while performing their duties. A Transport Inspector will identify themselves, show the identification card, explain the reason for the interaction, and advise you that the interaction is being recorded for transparency and accountability.

Transport Inspector powers

Transport Inspectors have broad powers relating to intercepting and inspecting light vehicles to ensure compliance with legislation requirements. They operate within strict guidelines and they can issue substantial on-the-spot fines for a range of offences. They can also report matters for court action.

What can Transport Inspectors do?

Transport Inspectors have the authority to:

• intercept all light vehicles to:
  • carry out safety inspections,
  • check load restraint,
  • check dimensions,
  • check registration and compulsory third-party insurance
• check heavy vehicle drivers' work diaries
• check passenger and personalised transport vehicle drivers hold a current driver licence and have the appropriate driving authority.

Please remember: You are legally required to assist Transport Inspectors in performing their duties. You may be required to provide your name and address and produce identification such as a driver's license or a passport. Transport Inspectors may also require access to your vehicle for safety checks.

For more information, download the Transport Inspectors fact sheet.

Recognising a Transport Inspector

Transport Inspectors are easily recognised—they wear a navy blue Transport Inspector uniform. In some cases they may work out of uniform, however in all cases they will carry and produce an official Government identification card.

The magenta, white and yellow decals on Transport Inspector vehicles make them easy to identify.

Safe Drive

Road safety is a serious issue in Queensland. Safe Drive is a statewide compliance operation where Transport Inspectors randomly intercept and check light vehicles, including private cars, to ensure they are mechanically safe during the school holidays.

School holidays are a busy time where families travel more in their vehicles. Transport Inspectors help families reach their destination safely.

It is the vehicle owner's responsibility to ensure the vehicle is safe. A simple check can save lives—make sure you check:

• brakes
• tyres
• lighting
• steering suspension
• windscreen.

Also make sure you have current registration and compulsory third party insurance.

For more information, download the check your vehicle and stay safe fact sheet.

Transport Inspectors and road closures

The Department of Transport and Main Roads aims to keep Queensland drivers and their families safe on our roads. During disasters, it is important that freight routes remain open and essential supplies reach communities in need. The Transport Inspector and road closures fact sheet explains the role Transport Inspectors have during temporary road closures due to wet weather, flooding or natural disasters and why you must obey their directions.

Transport Inspector road safety posters

Road closures and natural disasters

How to become a Transport Inspector

Recruitment for Transport Inspectors occurs as required. All applicants must advance through strict criminal history checks to be successful. Successful applicants will either commence immediately or be placed in a 'pool' that can be drawn upon when a vacancy arises within 12 months. Transport Inspectors are then required to complete an intensive training program.

Check for Transport Inspector job vacancies.