The announcement follows a call for evidence exploring four potential reform options aimed at reducing downtime and improving efficiency for ER operators. However, concerns over road safety and a lack of robust supporting evidence have led the Department for Transport (DfT) to hold off on major regulatory changes for now.
Four options under consideration
The consultation examined the following proposals:
- Option 1 – Reduced test frequency: Extending the period between mandatory tests for ER operators, potentially moving to a two-year testing cycle.
- Option 2 – Delegated testing: Allowing ER operators, or third parties acting on their behalf, to carry out vehicle tests instead of DVSA.
- Option 3 – Streamlined testing: Shortening test content by removing items already covered in regular maintenance checks or monitored by vehicle technology.
- Option 4 – Improved service provision: Enhancing DVSA’s testing service for ER operators by prioritising test slot availability and offering more flexibility.
Of these, Option 4 is already being implemented as a routine DVSA service improvement and does not require legislative changes.
No immediate change to testing frequency
Although some respondents supported reducing the testing frequency (Option 1), the DfT highlighted the limited number of responses and lack of strong evidence demonstrating the benefits. The department stressed that any reduction in testing could pose a risk to road safety without appropriate supervision and safeguards.
Delegated testing (Option 2) was also viewed as problematic, particularly in terms of ensuring independence and maintaining the quality of data flowing into the ER scheme. Sub-delegation to third-party testers could further complicate responsibility and accountability.
The government noted that both Options 1 and 2 could theoretically reduce unproductive downtime and offer scheduling flexibility, but these advantages must be weighed against the potential loss of reliable roadworthiness data.
Further work planned on reduced testing
While no immediate changes will be made, the government will continue to assess Option 1 in more detail. This includes evaluating:
- Whether reduced testing frequency leads to poorer in-use vehicle condition
- Whether the ER scheme could be adjusted to include mid-term inspections to mitigate this risk
- Whether the ER scheme should be placed on a statutory footing
- Whether vehicles used for international transport should still be required to undergo annual testing
- The handling of vehicles that move in and out of ER status
- The procedures for implementing such changes for both HGVs and PSVs
- Delegated testing remains under review
Option 2 (delegated testing) remains on the table, but no final decision has been made. The government will continue to evaluate its feasibility and the implications for data integrity, legal accountability, and operational oversight.
Service improvements for ER operators already underway
The DVSA is already implementing service improvements in line with Option 4 (improved service provision). This includes offering ER operators better access to authorised test facility (ATF) slots and more flexibility in booking days and times. These improvements do not require any legislative change and are being rolled out as part of DVSA’s ongoing operations.
What this means for operators
For now, the current system requiring annual tests for HGVs and PSVs remains in place for all operators, including those in the Earned Recognition scheme. While testing reforms remain under consideration, the government has made clear that safety and reliability of vehicle condition data remain its top priorities.
Further updates will follow once the DfT completes its assessment of reduced testing intervals and delegated testing models.
Industry reaction: disappointment over lack of reform
The government’s decision not to move forward with changes to HGV testing has been met with frustration by key industry stakeholders, who argue that Earned Recognition (ER) operators deserve greater flexibility in return for their high compliance standards.
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) expressed disappointment at the outcome, highlighting the missed opportunity to ease pressure on testing capacity.
“We’re disappointed the consultation has concluded that testing requirements will remain unchanged. ER operators strive for excellence by voluntarily signing up and ensuring compliance with robust standards,” said Aaron Peters, RHA Head of Technical. “The proposed changes would have eased the burden on HGV testing capacity and reduced reliance on DVSA staff, while maintaining current road safety levels.”
The RHA added that it will continue to engage with the Department for Transport (DfT) and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) in efforts to streamline processes and represent the interests of its members.
Logistics UK also criticised the government’s decision, particularly the lack of progress on delegated testing — a long-standing request from ER-accredited operators.
“Delegated testing has always been the main incentive in which operators were encouraged to adopt the Earned Recognition (ER) scheme, so for the government to dismiss the option out of hand is hugely disappointing and frustrating,” said Phil Lloyd, Head of Engineering Policy at Logistics UK. “The industry is united that delegated testing would deliver flexibility and efficiencies for transport operators without compromising safety… Decisions like this will make the scheme less attractive for operators.”
Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to working with government bodies to push for reforms that recognise the high compliance levels of ER operators and deliver real operational benefits.
