What is Required to Become an HVA Scheme Approved Auditor?

This article provides information on how to satisfy the criteria to become registered as an HVA (previously NHVAS) Approved Auditor. You should treat this as guidance only, as each application will be assessed on its own merits.

HVA Auditing

The National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS) is being progressively replaced by the Heavy Vehicle Accreditation (HVA) scheme from 1 August 2026.

If you're looking to become an HVA Scheme Approved Auditor, there are specific qualification, experience and other eligibility requirements set by the NHVR. This article provides general guidance only, and you should always refer to the NHVR for the current requirements and application process.

Auditor Qualification Requirements

The NHVR requires auditors to hold:

The required nationally recognised BSB audit units of competency, or formally recognised equivalents; and
A recognised Lead Auditor qualification aligned with ISO 19011, or an equivalent auditing framework.

The four BSB units specified by the NHVR are:

BSBAUD411 – Participate in quality audits
BSBAUD511 – Initiate quality audits
BSBAUD512 – Lead quality audits
BSBAUD513 – Report on quality audits

How ATOL Can Help

Our BSBSS00128 Lead Auditor Skill Set provides all four nationally recognised BSB audit units required by the NHVR, along with Lead Auditor training aligned with ISO 19011.

This provides a comprehensive training pathway for those looking to meet the auditor qualification requirements for the HVA scheme.

Already Hold a Lead Auditor Qualification?

If you already hold a suitable Lead Auditor qualification but do not have the required nationally recognised BSB audit units, our BSBSS00128 Lead Auditor Skill Set Upgrade may be the appropriate pathway.

The upgrade course is designed for learners who already hold relevant Lead Auditor qualifications and want to complete the required BSB units. Prerequisites apply, so please check the course requirements before enrolling.

Completing the required training does not automatically make you an HVA Scheme Approved Auditor. The NHVR has additional requirements relating to experience, insurance, suitability, criminal history checks and other conditions of approval.

Existing NHVAS Auditors

Existing NHVAS Approved Auditors are transitioning to the new HVA scheme. The NHVR has introduced additional requirements and transition deadlines for existing auditors.

Requirement	Transition Deadline
Nationally Recognised Lead Auditor Qualification	31 July 2028
Criminal History Check	31 December 2026
NHVR Induction, Code of Conduct and SMS Essentials	Before conducting HVA scheme audits
Conflict of Interest Declaration	Before conduction HVA scheme audits.

Existing NHVAS auditors do not need to submit a new application to transition to the HVA scheme, but they must meet the applicable transition requirements.

For full details and the latest information, refer to the NHVR's What is changing for auditors? guidance.

Further Information

For the most up-to-date requirements, application process and transition information, visit the NHVR's HVA for Auditors pages.

If you would like help determining which pathway applies to you, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.