Light vehicle modifications
The All about modifications to motor vehicles booklet (PDF, 546 KB) provides guidance on modifications to motor vehicles with a gross mass up to and including 4.5 tonnes as well as motorcycles.
Modifications can be generally classified in three ways:
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Minor modifications
Many minor modifications can be carried out without obtaining written approval. Details of these modifications are outlined in section one of the booklet.
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Complex modifications
Complex modifications such as engine upgrades, gearbox and rear axle changes, vehicle body modifications and steering and brake replacements require approval from an Approved Person. Details of these modifications and the Approved Person Scheme are outlined in section two of the booklet.
The Queensland Code of Practice: Light Motor Vehicles (PDF, 3.35 MB) contains detailed standards for a wide range complex modifications commonly performed on light vehicles. Only Approved Persons, with the appropriate Code accreditation, or Authorised Officers can approve modifications that comply with the Code of Practice.
The Code of Practice document is available in sections to make it easier to download:
The Code of Practice is based on accepted vehicle engineering practices and the requirements of the Australian Design Rules for Motor Vehicle Safety. It is intended to supplement the recommendations of the original vehicle manufacturer in relation to vehicle modification techniques or standards. It is important to note that the Australian Design Rules and the original manufacturer’s modification guidelines take precedence over the Code of Practice.
A hard copy of the Queensland Code of Practice: Light Motor Vehicles can be purchased from the Queensland Government Bookshop.
Note: The National Code of Practice – Light Vehicle Construction and Modification has been finalised by the Australian Motor Vehicle Certification Board and will soon replace the Queensland Code of Practice: Light Motor Vehicles.
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Specific modifications
Some owners require approval for vehicle modifications which may be outside the scope of the Code of Practice and approval by an Approved Person. Details of how to apply for these modifications are outlined in section three of the booklet.
The Motor Vehicle Modification Application form (F1854) must be used when applying to the Department of Transport and Main Roads for a specific modification. A fee is payable for the evaluation of plans. Gaining approval before commencing any specific modifications is strongly recommended. Please send the application form and your submission to:
Vehicle Standards and Regulation
GPO Box 1412
Brisbane, QLD 4001
Applicants should supply as much vehicle and engineering detail as possible to allow the modification to be assessed and avoid delays in processing of submissions.
For further advice regarding vehicle modifications, call the Vehicle Standards and Modifications Advice Team on (07) 3114 5844.
Young drivers
Research shows a greater crash risk for young drivers when driving high-powered and performance vehicles. Before modifying or purchasing a modified vehicle check the eligibility of the vehicle for young drivers – Provisional licence holders (P1 and P2) and high-powered and performance vehicles.
Last updated: 23 February 2012
