🗞️ DVSA update on its move to a "digital first" approach in heavy vehicle testing

In 2023, the DVSA supported the migration of all pre-funded account customers in moving accounts onto the Manage Your Vehicle Testing (MyVT) digital service.

A system which has been well-received by the industry, MyVT allows customers to see testing data and results in real-time, offering benefits including the ability for the DVSA to analyse in greater depth why a vehicle may have failed a test. Thomson states in his update that the DVSA intends to share this information with the industry in time. 

Paper to Digital MOT Certificates

MyVT allows users to access and view test results in real-time - as soon as an MOT is completed - with pass certificates available to view and download when they're needed.

As MOT certificates are now available digitally through the MOT history service, the DVSA stated that, by 29th April, vehicle testing facilities will have moved away from printing paper copy MOT certificates by default. The digital MOT history service stores test records for every vehicle, reducing the need for paper and offering an environmentally-friendly alternative.

Thomson states in his update that, in most cases, physical copy certificates aren't required. However, if vehicle testing facilities require a paper certificate – for example, if there is a difficulty in accessing the internet – then the VSA will print a copy.

The DVSA will continue to print MOT failed certificates in the meantime, and is considering moving failed certificates digitally in the future.

What's next?

Thomson encourages organisations and operators to adopt the process of accessing MOT certificates digitally, stating that, as long as information is digitally recorded and stored, paper copy certificates should not be required by either the DVSA or traffic commissioners. 

The DVSA is continuing to work with the industry, testing facilities and enforcement colleagues to raise awareness of the changes being implemented. 

Further, the DVSA is addressing additional changes, including:

• Making “Ministry Plates” more easily accessible online & removing the need to display these on vehicles
• Updates to the Inspection Manual and Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness
• Digital first approach in the light vehicle MOT scheme
• Potential changes to emission testing
• Reviewing the booking system for ATFs
• Improving the booking process for specialist approvals

Compliance is key for all of our workshop clients, and CCS Garage Equipment will continue to support our UK and Ireland garage equipment customers in creating workshops that meet the requirements of the DVSA, HSE and wider industry legislation.

Garage equipment installation including MOT bays & ATFs in the UK & Ireland by CCS Garage Equipment

For over 30 years, CCS Garage Equipment has installed MOT bays and ATFs for major dealership chains and fleet operators, as well as independent garages, workshops, local authorities and emergency services, working closely with each client to deliver bespoke MOT bays and Authorised Testing Factilities which enhance vehicle servicing workshops, fleet operations and road safety.

With LEEA and GEA accreditations and a large team working throughout the UK and Ireland, garage equipment installation projects are driven by CCS’ eye-catching designs, versatile equipment and the highest of safety standards.

Contact CCS to discuss your car dealership’s garage equipment projects