WA EV Label Requirements 2026: What Toyota Hybrid and Electric Owners Need to Know
If you drive a Toyota hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric vehicle in Western Australia, there's an important change coming into effect on 1 January 2026 that you should be aware of.
The WA Department of Transport is introducing mandatory EV labels for electric and hydrogen powered vehicles. This includes all hybrid models. Here's what it means for you and how to make sure you're ready.
What's Changing?
All electric and hydrogen powered vehicles (including hybrids) built or modified on or after 1 January 2019 must display EV labels on both the front and rear number plates.
This initiative aligns Western Australia with other Australian states and helps emergency services personnel quickly identify electric and hybrid vehicles in the event of an accident or fire. This allows first responders to take appropriate safety precautions when attending an incident.
Which Cars Need EV Labels?
If your Toyota was manufactured from 2019 onwards and features hybrid or electric technology, you'll need to display the labels. This includes popular models such as:
- RAV4 Hybrid
- Camry Hybrid
- C-HR Hybrid
- Kluger Hybrid
- Yaris Cross Hybrid
- Tundra
- All-Electric bZ4X
What Do the EV Labels Look Like?
The EV label is a small blue triangular tag with "EV" displayed in white capital letters. The label is affixed to a 1mm thick metal backing plate, which helps emergency services identify the vehicle type even if the label itself is damaged (for example, in a fire).
You'll need one label for each number plate on your vehicle. If you use a bike rack or mobility device carrier with an auxiliary plate, you'll need an additional label for that too.
What's the Timeline?
The requirement officially begins on 1 January 2026. However, there is a 12-month transition period, which means enforcement and penalties won't commence until 1 January 2027.
We recommend fitting your labels sooner rather than later to avoid the last-minute rush and ensure you're compliant well ahead of the deadline.
What Happens If You Don't Comply?
Once enforcement begins in January 2027, drivers without the required labels may face penalties of up to $800. Your vehicle may also fail inspections until a label is fitted.
More importantly, displaying the label helps keep you and emergency responders safe in the event of an incident. It's a small step that makes a real difference.