Last Updated on AUG 20, 2026
As of 2026, DVSA heavy vehicle changes cover both the testing updates introduced early in the year and further measures that took effect during the summer. ADAS visual checks, emailed PG10 clearance notices, safer PSV door testing and free online access to plating documents remain important changes for operators.
Further developments have since expanded the picture. From 1 June 2026, zero-emission goods vehicles between 3,501kg and 4,250kg moved into Class 7 MOT testing, while from 6 July 2026 the maximum service charges authorised testing facilities can levy increased to £70 for HGVs, £50 for trailers and £90 for buses and coaches.
Key takeaways:
- ADAS visual checks and emailed PG10 clearance notices have operated since 2 February 2026
- Free online HGV and trailer plating documents are available, although 13 February 2026 should be treated as DVSA’s promotion of the service rather than its original launch
- Zero-emission goods vehicles between 3,501kg and 4,250kg became Class 7 vehicles for MOT purposes from 1 June 2026
- Maximum ATF service charges increased from 6 July 2026 to £70 for HGVs, £50 for trailers and £90 for buses and coaches
- Current roadworthiness guidance expects brake performance to be assessed at every safety inspection, with at least four laden brake tests a year where EBPMS is not being used
DVSA confirmed that the plating-certificate facility had actually been soft-launched in 2025, before it was actively promoted in February 2026.
What Are the DVSA Heavy Vehicle Changes Introduced in Early 2026?
The DVSA heavy vehicle changes introduced in early 2026 centre on four confirmed updates that affect HGV and PSV testing procedures across Britain.
According to the agency, these reforms are designed to improve efficiency, strengthen safety oversight, and support its transition to digital services.
The changes include:
- 5 January 2026: Introduction of a new PSV door safety testing tool
- 2 February 2026: Start of ADAS visual checks during heavy vehicle tests
- 2 February 2026: PG10 prohibition clearance notices moved to email
- 13 February 2026: Launch of free downloadable plating certificates
DVSA representatives stated that these steps will help streamline administrative processes while maintaining high safety standards.
The agency confirmed that most updates do not significantly alter the structure of the annual test but instead enhance how information is gathered and managed.
By combining digital improvements with practical safety adjustments, the DVSA aims to provide a more accessible and consistent testing system for operators, assessors, and compliance teams throughout the UK transport sector.
How Does the Free Online Plating Certificate Service Affect HGV Operators?
HGV and trailer operators can use the GOV.UK service to view and download their plating certificate and ministry plate free of charge.
DVSA promoted the facility as part of its February 2026 heavy vehicle testing changes, although the agency later clarified that the service had been soft-launched during 2025 while improvements were made to underlying data quality.
Current GOV.UK guidance confirms that operators can download an A4 PDF containing both the A5 plating certificate and A5 ministry plate and print it themselves.
The digital service is free, while operators who cannot use it can still apply for replacement documents through the alternative process, which currently costs £13.
This change strengthens document control and allows faster response during audits or inspections.
By giving operators direct access to official plating records, the DVSA heavy vehicle changes support more efficient compliance management while reducing administrative burdens across fleets of all sizes.
What Are the New ADAS Visual Checks and Are They Part of the Annual Test?
Advance Driver Assistance Systems have become increasingly common in modern heavy vehicles. In response, the DVSA began visual checks on 2 February 2026 to monitor the condition of these systems during testing.
At present, these checks are not formally part of the annual test. Instead, assessors carry out visual inspections to gather information and assess system integrity.
The inspections include:
- Checking sensors and cameras for security
- Identifying damage or physical obstructions
- Observing, where applicable, basic operation
- Monitoring ADAS-related malfunction indicator lamps
A DVSA spokesperson confirmed that reviewing these systems will help the agency make informed decisions about potential future integration into the annual test.
Importantly, operators should understand that these checks do not add significant time to the test process. They reflect the growing role of vehicle technology in maintaining road safety and ensuring heavy goods vehicles operate as intended.
What Does the Move to Email PG10 Prohibition Notices Mean for Compliance?
From 2 February 2026, PG10 prohibition clearance notices are issued via email rather than paper documentation. The PG10 form confirms that a previously unroadworthy vehicle has been repaired and is fit to return to the road.
Under the updated system, notices are sent directly to the email address linked to the vehicle on the Vehicle Operator Licensing system. The DVSA has encouraged operators to ensure their contact details remain accurate to avoid delays or missed communications.
This reform forms part of the agency’s broader digital transition strategy. By issuing PG10 notices electronically, the DVSA aims to provide faster confirmation, reduce paperwork handling, and improve record traceability.
For operators, maintaining up-to-date contact information on the VOL system is now essential to prevent compliance risks or operational disruption.
Why Has DVSA Introduced a New PSV Door Safety Testing Tool?
On 5 January 2026, the DVSA introduced a new tool designed to test door resistance on passenger service vehicles. The purpose of this equipment is to minimise injury risk to assessors while ensuring consistent testing standards.
During manual testing, there is a small risk of harm when doors close unexpectedly. The new device enables assessors to measure resistance safely and consistently.
Feedback gathered by the DVSA revealed that 87 percent of assessors preferred the tool, stating it ensured a safer and more reliable approach across testing sites.
The agency emphasised that safety procedures remain under constant review. By adopting improved equipment, the DVSA heavy vehicle changes reinforce its commitment to both employee safety and passenger protection within the PSV sector.
How Do These DVSA Heavy Vehicle Changes Fit into Wider 2025–2026 Testing Reforms?
From 1 June 2026, zero-emission goods vehicles with a design gross weight between 3,501kg and 4,250kg moved into the Class 7 MOT system rather than being treated through the heavy vehicle testing regime.
These vehicles have their first Class 7 MOT three years after registration. DVSA said the change should increase capacity at HGV testing stations while supporting the adoption of zero-emission commercial vehicles.
The change also affects plating requirements. Current GOV.UK guidance states that zero-emission goods vehicles between 3,501kg and 4,250kg do not require HGV ministry plates and plating certificates. Hybrid vehicles are not included in this zero-emission definition.
Fleet operators running electric goods vehicles around this weight threshold should therefore check which testing regime applies rather than assuming normal HGV testing and plating requirements remain in force.
What Should Fleet Operators Do Now to Prepare?
Fleet operators should take proactive steps to align with the DVSA heavy vehicle changes and minimise compliance risks. While most reforms are administrative or observational, preparation ensures smooth operations.
Recommended actions include:
- Verify that the email address on the Vehicle Operator Licensing system is accurate
- Establish internal procedures for downloading and storing plating certificates
- Inform maintenance teams about ADAS visual checks
- Review brake testing schedules to meet 2025 requirements
- Ensure PSV door mechanisms are maintained in line with testing expectations
Clear communication within compliance and transport management teams is essential. Operators who integrate these adjustments into daily processes will benefit from reduced delays, improved documentation control, and stronger audit readiness.
The DVSA has expressed confidence that these updates will enhance service delivery and maintain high road safety standards across Britain.
DVSA Heavy Vehicle Changes Timeline at a Glance
Understanding the sequence of reforms helps operators track compliance obligations. The table below summarises the key milestones introduced under the DVSA heavy vehicle changes programme.
| Change | Date | Vehicle Type | Operator Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Updated brake-testing guidance | 2025 guidance remains current | HGVs and trailers | Brake performance assessment required throughout maintenance programme |
| PSV door safety tool | 5 January 2026 | PSV | Safer and more consistent door-resistance testing |
| ADAS visual checks | 2 February 2026 | Heavy vehicles | Sensors, cameras and warning lamps may be visually checked |
| PG10 notices by email | 2 February 2026 | Heavy vehicles | Keep VOL email details current |
| Free plating service promoted | 13 February 2026 | HGVs and trailers | Download and print documents online for free |
| ZEVs moved to Class 7 testing | 1 June 2026 | Zero-emission goods vehicles 3,501–4,250kg | Use Class 7 MOT regime |
| Higher maximum ATF service charges | 6 July 2026 | HGVs, trailers, buses and coaches | Allow for higher testing-facility costs |
These milestones illustrate the structured progression of reforms aimed at improving safety, efficiency, and digital access.
What Is the Business Impact for UK Fleet and Haulage Companies?
The 2026 changes now carry both operational and cost implications for fleet operators. Alongside digital documentation and revised testing arrangements, operators using authorised testing facilities need to account for the higher maximum facility service charges introduced from 6 July 2026. ATFs can now charge up to £70 for an HGV, £50 for a trailer and £90 for a bus or coach for use of the testing facility. These are ATF facility or “pit” charges rather than replacements for the underlying DVSA test fee.
Key impacts include:
- Faster access to essential documentation
- Reduced administrative costs
- Improved audit traceability
- Stronger emphasis on digital record keeping
- Greater awareness of emerging vehicle technologies
For large haulage businesses, immediate access to plating certificates can simplify multi-site operations. Smaller operators may benefit from reduced fees and clearer communication channels.
As vehicle technology evolves, the inclusion of ADAS monitoring signals is increasing regulatory attention on electronic safety systems. The DVSA has stated that these reforms aim to keep Britain’s roads among the safest in the world while improving service efficiency for customers.
Conclusion
The DVSA heavy vehicle changes in force by August 2026 now extend beyond ADAS checks, emailed PG10 notices, safer PSV door testing and digital plating documents.
Fleet operators must also account for the 1 June 2026 Class 7 MOT change for certain zero-emission goods vehicles and the higher ATF service charges introduced on 6 July 2026. Current DVSA brake-testing and roadworthiness guidance should also remain part of routine compliance planning.
Keeping contact details, testing records, vehicle safety systems and MOT classifications up to date will help operators remain compliant with the latest 2026 requirements.
FAQs
When did the latest DVSA heavy vehicle changes come into effect?
Most early 2026 updates were introduced between 5 January and 13 February 2026. Wider brake testing reforms began in April 2025.
Are ADAS visual checks now part of the annual HGV test?
No, the checks are currently visual assessments only. They are not yet formally included in the annual test criteria.
How can operators download plating certificates?
Certificates can be accessed through the GOV.UK MOT history service. They can be downloaded and printed free of charge.
What happens if a PG10 email is missed?
If the registered email address is outdated, the operator may not receive the notice promptly. This could delay confirmation that a vehicle is cleared for road use.
Do the changes affect small fleet operators?
Yes, all HGV and PSV operators must comply regardless of fleet size. Smaller operators may particularly benefit from reduced administrative costs.
Are brake testing requirements changing again in 2026?
The main brake testing changes began in April 2025. No additional brake testing revisions were announced in early 2026.
Why has DVSA focused on digital services?
The agency aims to improve efficiency and accessibility for operators. Digital services reduce paperwork delays and enhance record management.
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