The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is considering changes to heavy vehicle testing for operators who can demonstrate high levels of compliance.
These options, which include increasing the time between tests, delegated testing, reducing test content, and improving service provision, were outlined in the DVSA’s Call For Evidence information-gathering exercise, which seeks feedback from stakeholders on potential changes to the Earned Recognition Scheme.
Increasing the time between tests for ER operators
Option 1 suggests increasing the time between tests for Enhanced Risk (ER) operators, and the initial consideration is that testing should be done every other year instead of annually. This option would require primary legislation, and its implementation could take some time.
The benefit of this option is that there would be less downtime for vehicles attending test appointments, resulting in savings in fuel and personnel time. It may also free up DVSA testers who could provide a more flexible service to other Authorised Testing Facilities (ATFs) and improve the service offering as a whole for operators.
However, some operators may still prefer to have an annual test, such as for insurance or quality assurance purposes, and there may be practical considerations to handling vehicles changing hands.
Delegated testing
Option 2 proposes delegated testing, allowing ER operators to test their own vehicles and trailers, either by themselves or by delegating the responsibility to a maintenance provider. This option could benefit operators by reducing downtime for their vehicles and allowing for more flexibility in the timing of testing, which can be done in sync with maintenance schedules.
However, if delegation is only allowed to ER operators and not to maintenance providers, this option may not provide benefits to operators who outsource their maintenance. It is essential to ensure independence between testing and maintenance, as well as the competence of testers and the quality of work.
Reduced test content
Option 3 suggests reducing the content of the annual test for ER operators’ vehicles, which may help reduce vehicle downtime and costs.
However, legislative changes would be required, which may impact implementation timescales. The vehicles would still need to be presented for assessment against the aspects that remain in the annual roadworthiness inspection, and existing in-use requirements for vehicle condition would remain across the whole range of items.
Improved service provision
Option 4 would provide ER operators with improved service provision and increased flexibility in getting a test that suits their business needs, without requiring significant legislative changes.
However, it is heavily dependent on DVSA being able to recruit sufficient testing staff across the country to provide preferential service to ER operators.
It is important to note that the types of service set out in option 4 could potentially benefit all vehicle operators and ATFs, and may not be limited to ER operators. These types of changes could also be expected to follow the Heavy Vehicle Test Regime (HVTR).
Potential risks include increased risk of road safety
It is worth considering the potential risks associated with these changes, such as an increased risk of road safety accidents if the rigour of the test and the independence of testers is compromised. The DVSA has identified this as a risk and will consider any potential impacts on road safety or air quality.
How can you take part in the consultation?
The consultation period began on 14 April 2023 and will run until 9 June 2023. Hauliers should ensure that their response reaches the DVSA before the closing date. DVSA’s question can be answered online HERE.
When responding, stakeholders should state whether they are responding as an individual or representing the views of an organization.
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