How Much does LVV Certification cost?

There are many different types of certification, from a wheels and tyre change only certification (on an already certified vehicle), to a basic (adjustable suspension, or an engine swap), right up to full certification of a scratch-built vehicle. Therefore, prices will vary considerably dependent upon the extent of the modifications, and the number of times a certifier needs to re-inspect the vehicle if rectifications are required. For scratch-built vehicles or vehicles that have not been entry complied, there are also other costs outside of the LVV Certification which you should consider.

The fees charged to a customer for LVV certification are derived from the time it takes to carry out the LVV certification inspection(s), fill in the required forms and form-sets, and prepare the associated documentation, which will be in the region of 2.5 hours for the more straight-forward certifications like a seat and seatbelt installation, through to 4.5 hours for a Targa car, plus in every case $270.00 for the certification Electronic Data Plate fee (subject to change), or $50 plate fee for a wheels and tyre change only certification (on an already certified vehicle), and additional consumables including stationary, courier, telephone, and travel expenses. A complex scratch-built vehicle, can, with the many inspections and processes involved, easily take up in the region of 15-20 hours of time.

You can help to minimise the cost of your certification by reducing the number or re-inspections you require. This can be done by ensuring that all modifications meet the relevant technical requirements (LVV Standards, LVV Information Sheets, NZ Car Construction Manual) prior to your certification, and also that all modifications and rectifications have been carried out in a tradesman-like manner.

Remember that your LVV Certifier is carrying out his certifications in a professional capacity, much like an engineer, dentist or doctor, and as such, will charge a fair and reasonable hourly rate, taking into consideration his business costs and overheads, and the liability that each certifier must carry for the life of the vehicle while the certification plate remains.

To obtain an estimate of the certification cost, contact your LVV Certifier.

We’ve broken down some of the more common aspects of an LVV Certification below.