Today the DVSA has announced some upcoming changes to the MOT inspection manual and testing guide. The MOT testing guide and MOT inspection manuals (all classes) will be updated on 6 February 2023, but the details of these and how they relate to connected MOT Equipment are detailed below.
Note: the below information is transcribed verbatim from the DVSA website announcement page, to prevent any issues or misunderstandings or issues in communication:
2. MOT guide
2.1 Decelerometer calibration
From 1 April 2023, all decelerometers must be calibrated at intervals not exceeding 1 year. This is a change from the current 2 year cycle.
Decelerometer calibration certificates issued before 1 April 2023 will be acceptable until they expire. After this, the equipment must be calibrated annually.
2.2 Roller brake testers (RBT), plate brake testers (PBT) and headlamp aim testers
From 1 April 2023, calibration of brake testers and headlamp testers will no longer be acceptable if completed by vehicle testing station (VTS) staff.
Calibration must only be completed by either:
- the original manufacturer
- a company that has taken over responsibility for equipment support from the manufacturer
- a calibration specialist
VTSs employing independent calibration specialists must satisfy themselves of the technical competence and viability of the company concerned and be able to demonstrate this to DVSA upon request.
2.3 Disciplinary sanctions
Appendix 8.4B
A sanction will be added for charging more than the maximum test fee for an MOT test.
Appendix 8.4C
Amendments will be made to sanctions for missing/incomplete/incorrect training records.
2.4 Other amendments
For all other amendments to the MOT testing guide, refer to ‘see all updates’ at the top of the MOT testing guide.
These include:
- an individual’s responsibility for the protection of their data
- installing connected equipment
- VTS staff co-operation
- solicitor letters accompanying an application for an authorised examiner (AE) or VTS approval
Text correct as of 23rd January 2023, but please refer to the DVSA website below for any subsequent updates.
The full article as released by DVSA can be read on the DVSA website article linked below
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mot-special-notice-01-23-inspection-manual-and-testing-guide-updates/mot-special-notice-01-23-inspection-manual-and-testing-guide-updates