p plate modification laws vic Page 657

In Victoria, P-platers can tinker, but bolt-on bravado is tightly policed. If a modification increases performance (engine swaps, turbo/supercharger add-ons, spicy tunes), it can land the car in the “high‑powered vehicle” category that P1/P2 drivers aren’t allowed to drive without an exemption. Cosmetic or safety-compliant tweaks—legal wheels/tyres, suspension within roadworthy limits, ADR-compliant lighting, and a not-too-shouty exhaust—are generally fine, as long as the car stays roadworthy and insured.

Bigger changes often need an engineer’s certificate and proper documentation, and any tampering with emissions or safety systems is a fast track to defects. If a mod bumps power-to-weight, you’re likely out on P plates. Check VicRoads’ high‑powered rules and your insurer before you spend a cent—fines, impounds and defect notices make terrible souvenirs.