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Individually Constructed Vehicles (ICVs) – Certification & Registration in Queensland

An Individually Constructed Vehicle (ICV) is a unique, hand-built vehicle that is not based on a production car or modified from an existing vehicle platform. These are one-off projects that reflect creativity, engineering skill and dedication. Whether you're building a hot rod, kit car or custom creation from scratch, Autocert is here to guide you through the approval process to legally register your ICV in Queensland.

What is an ICV?

An ICV is:

  • A completely custom vehicle not built on a production chassis or monocoque
  • Designed and constructed from scratch by an individual or small team
  • Often includes kit cars or replicas that do not reuse any structural elements from production vehicles

Examples of ICVs include:

  • Scratch-built sports cars or hot rods
  • Kit cars using new chassis and suspension
  • Custom-designed 4x4 buggies or rally cars with bespoke frames

What is Not an ICV?

A vehicle is not considered an ICV if it:

  • Is built from or modified from the chassis, floor pan, or monocoque of a production vehicle
  • Uses a production body-in-white, OEM or aftermarket, even without a visible VIN
  • Contains any structural component from a vehicle with a VIN, compliance plate, or statutory write-off history
  • Includes any altered or defaced identification plate (this is an offence under Queensland law)

Regulatory Framework for ICVs

Applicable Standards

ICVs must comply with:

  • LO1 modification code (or LO7 for motorcycles) under VSB-14
  • The full set of Australian Design Rules (ADRs) applicable to the vehicle category at the time of certification

Construction & Inspections

The build must demonstrate:

  • High-quality workmanship
  • Correct materials and components
  • Compliance with all approved engineering drawings and calculations

Stage Inspections

We will:

  • Perform key stage inspections throughout the build
  • Retain photo documentation, test results and corrective action records
  • Issue reports that form part of the ICV Completion Report

Stage inspections vary per project and may include:

  • Frame/chassis fabrication
  • Suspension/brake mock-up
  • Electrical systems layout
  • Final fitout and bodywork

Build Number & Surrogate VIN Process

Before your ICV can be certified, a Build Number must be issued and stamped on a fixed structural point such as the firewall or chassis.

Step 1: ICV Completion Report

We must submit an ICV Completion Report to TMR which includes:

  • Compliance statements for each applicable ADR
  • Test reports and stage inspection evidence
  • A photo of the LO1 plate (with Build Number in place of VIN)
  • A completed LO1 checklist and ICV Certificate (Form F5050)

Once accepted, TMR will issue:

  • A Surrogate VIN
  • An exemption permit for the compliance plate

Step 2: VIN Stamping & Plate Finalisation

Once the surrogate VIN is issued:

  • It must be stamped into the vehicle permanently
  • Replace the Build Number decal on the LO1 plate with the official VIN
  • Fit the completed modification plate near the VIN and issue the LO Certificate

Step 3: Registration

You can now register your ICV with TMR. A Safety Certificate is generally not required. 

Our Services at Autocert

We offer a full suite of services to help you bring your ICV to life:

  • RPEQ-certified engineering design and supervision
  • LO1 and LO7 certification and compliance support
  • Assistance with ICV Completion Reports and TMR submissions
  • Stage inspections, report collation and photo evidence
  • Registration support and post-certification modification advice