ADR compliance covers safety, emissions and general roadworthiness — it’s a crucial step in the import process. At Glam Groups we manage
the compliance work end-to-end so your car moves smoothly from arrival to registration.
What is ADR compliance?
ADR compliance is the process of ensuring an imported vehicle meets Australia’s national standards for safety, braking, lighting, emissions,
occupant protection and more. These checks apply whether a car arrives by RoRo or container,
and whether it’s imported under SEVS, the 25-Year Rule, or a personal import pathway.
Which vehicles typically require ADR compliance?
- Modern Japanese imports bought via auction or dealer networks
- SEVS-approved vehicles and enthusiast models
- Hybrids and EVs that need electrical safety checks
- Most passenger vehicles that will be registered for road use
Note: some older vehicles imported under the 25-Year Rule follow a simpler pathway — see that page if your car is a classic.
What’s checked during ADR compliance?
Exact requirements depend on make, model and year, but common checks include:
- Lighting, indicators and reflectors
- Child restraint anchorage points (anchor points)
- Immobiliser and security requirements
- Tyre, brake and steering standards
- Odometer verification and paperwork checks
- Emissions and noise compliance
- Airbag and safety system integrity
ADR compliance process — step by step
Step 1 — Vehicle assessment
We determine which ADRs apply to your vehicle and which modifications (if any) will be required.
Step 2 — Physical inspection
At our approved facility we inspect and document the vehicle in detail so nothing surprises you later.
Step 3 — Compliance work
We carry out required modifications (lighting, seat anchors, immobiliser fitment, etc.) using approved parts and methods.
Step 4 — Certification
We prepare and lodge the paperwork and supply the certification pack you need for registration.
Step 5 — Registration readiness
Once the ADR work is complete and certified, the vehicle can be registered with your state authority (e.g. VICRoads).
How long does ADR compliance take?
Most passenger vehicles are completed within 1–3 weeks, depending on parts availability and the work required.
Rare or heavily modified cars may take longer — we’ll provide a realistic timeline when we assess the vehicle.
How ADR compliance fits into the import journey
ADR compliance takes place after shipping, customs clearance and quarantine checks. The usual flow is:
- Check eligibility (see Import Eligibility)
- Apply for Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) — learn more about VIA
- Purchase & ship the vehicle (compare RoRo vs container)
- Customs & quarantine, duties & GST (details: Customs Duty & GST)
- ADR compliance & certification (this page)
- State registration and delivery
Why choose Glam Groups for ADR compliance?
- 22+ years’ experience importing and certifying JDM vehicles
- Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW) and approved testing facility
- Full SEVS and non-SEVS experience — we handle complex, enthusiast and performance models
- End-to-end service: we manage certification and handover for registration
Quick FAQs
Do I need ADR compliance for a 25-year-old car?
Many 25-year-old vehicles follow a simpler pathway under the 25-Year Rule, but we’ll confirm this at assessment.
Can modified cars be made compliant?
Yes — but some modifications add complexity. We review modifications early so you know what’s required and how much it will cost.
Will compliance change registration eligibility?
When ADR work is complete and certified, the vehicle will be in a state suitable for registration. We can advise on state-specific steps (VIC, NSW, QLD etc.).
Start your ADR compliance today
If you’ve already bought your car or are thinking of buying, get a free eligibility and compliance check. We’ll tell you exactly what ADR work (if any) is needed and provide a transparent quote.
Note: This page explains common ADR steps and timelines. Exact requirements vary by model — we’ll confirm specifics after a vehicle assessment.