NZ rules
WOF vs COF: What's the Difference?
Updated 20 Oct 2026
How often you need a WOF (from 1 November 2026)
NZTA is changing WOF frequency for light vehicles:
- New cars: the first WOF lasts until the car is 4 years old (up from 3).
- 4 to 14 years old, first registered on or after 1 November 2019: a WOF every 2 years instead of every year.
- 4 to 14 years old, first registered between 1 November 2013 and 31 October 2019: yearly until 1 November 2027, then every 2 years.
- 14 to 26 years old: still every year.
- First registered before 1 January 2000: every year instead of every 6 months.
Certificate of Fitness (COF)
A COF is needed for heavy vehicles (over 3,500 kg), passenger service vehicles (taxis, shuttles and rideshare cars like Uber) and rental cars. Passenger service cars need one every 6 months. From 1 November 2026, light rental cars move to a yearly COF.
What a WOF checks, and what it doesn't
A WOF checks things like tyres, brakes, lights, seatbelts, rust and the windscreen. From November 2026 it also checks there are no warning lights for automatic emergency braking or lane-keep assist, where fitted.
It doesn't cover the engine, gearbox or general reliability. When buying, still follow our used car checklist.
Common questions
What's the fine for an expired WOF?
From November 2026, driving with a WOF that expired more than two months ago can mean a $350 fine. Check NZTA for the details.
Does an imported car count from when it was first registered in Japan or NZ?
NZTA hasn't published full detail on this yet. Check your car's due date on your WOF label or with NZTA.
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Rules and fees change, so check the official sources linked above for your situation.