Over the last few months, we’ve sent out information on some of the changes coming into the heavy vehicle testing process.
In this blog, we'll summarise the implementation plans for the most recent changes to testing:
- 2 February 2026 – Advance Driver and Assistance Systems (ADAS) visual checks began
- 5 January 2026 – new Public Service Vehicle (PSV) door safety testing tool introduced
- 2 February 2026 – PG10 prohibition clearance notices move to email
- 13 February 2026- plating certificates
The rise in use of ADAS
The number of vehicles with ADAS features has risen significantly over recent years, playing an important role in helping to keep people safe.
As ADAS is becoming standard in new vehicles, we have now begun testing these systems.
This doesn't have a significant impact on the overall test for the customer. The assessors are conducting visual checks on ADAS only during this stage and it is currently not part of the annual test.
The visual inspections:
- check sensors and cameras for security, damage, obstructions, and in some cases, operation
- check for ADAS-related malfunction indicator lamps (MILs)
Looking at the condition and function of these systems will also help us gather better information to make more informed decisions about gathering information on these systems as part of the annual test, in the future.
New tool for PSV door safety testing
We've introduced a new tool for testing door resistance on passenger service vehicles.
When testing, there's a small risk of injury as the door closes, so this new tool helps keep our colleagues safe and removes the risk of any assessors being injured.
The new PSV door tool allows assessors to safely and consistently test door resistance.
We know that improving vehicle safety shouldn't be an afterthought, which is why we keep our processes under constant review.
Some of you may have already seen our assessors using the new tool.
Based on feedback, the new tool was preferred by 87% of assessors because it 'ensured a safer and more consistent approach' at all test sites.
PG10 prohibition clearance notices moving to email
As you know, DVSA has been moving many of its services online to make access easier for our customers. The latest process is digitising the PG10 form.
An email will be sent directly to the operator whose email address is linked to the vehicle on the Vehicle Operator Licensing (VOL) system.
We continue to transition our services to more digital platforms, to make it easier and faster for us to provide the best service for everyone.
Make sure your email address is up to date on the VOL system so you can receive your PG10 promptly and prevent it getting lost.
Plating certificates
An essential part of being a responsible HGV operator is keeping on top of important paperwork.
We've already been sending first and replacement plating certificates for heavy goods vehicles by email. Now, we're taking things a step further – you'll soon be able to download and print your own certificates whenever you need them, for free.
This means:
- no more waiting for the post – you can access your certificate as soon as you need it
- no more fees – viewing and downloading your certificate is completely free
- access anytime, anywhere – whether you're in the office, at a depot, or on the road
You'll be able to get your certificates through our MOT history service on GOV.UK. It will be useful if you've lost a certificate or if it's been damaged.
Positive steps
It's important to us that we provide operators and customers with efficient and easily accessible services, and we appreciate your continued support as we introduce new changes.
We're confident that these changes will help improve the service we offer our customers, helping keep Britain's roads some of the safest in the world.
We appreciate any feedback that you have for us, so please leave us a comment with any questions.
1 comment
Comment by Tom posted on
Plating certificates on the MOT History website have been available since at least 2024 possibly earlier, so what on earth are you talking about making out this is a new feature? Or that it will be available soon, this work was complete years ago.
You do great work implementing these more efficient systems, but not publicising them has allowed people to still submit requests for plating certificates through the old TAS system and be charged for it for several years, which is not fair.