Seat belts: the law

Overview

You must wear a seat belt if one is fitted in the seat you’re using - there are only a few exceptions.

You’re also only allowed 1 person in each seat fitted with a seat belt.

You can be fined up to £500 if you don’t wear a seat belt when you’re supposed to.

Children

You must make sure that any children in the vehicle you’re driving are:

in the correct car seat for their (any children in the vehicle you’re driving) height or weight until they (any children in the vehicle you’re driving) reach 135 centimetres tall or their (any children in the vehicle you’re driving) 12th birthday, whichever is first

wearing a seat belt if they (any children in the vehicle you’re driving)’re 12 or 13 years old, or younger and over 135cm tall

You can be fined up to £500 if a child under 14 isn’t in the correct car seat or wearing a seat belt while you’re driving.

When you don't need to wear a seat belt

You don’t need to wear a seat belt if you’re:

a driver who is reversing, or supervising a learner driver who is reversing

in a vehicle being used for police, fire and rescue services

a passenger in a trade vehicle and you’re investigating a fault

driving a goods vehicle on deliveries that is travelling no more than 50 metres between stops

a licensed taxi driver who is ‘plying for hire’ or carrying passengers

Medical exemptions

Your doctor may say you don’t have to wear a seat belt for a medical reason. They’ll give you a ‘Certificate of Exemption from Compulsory Seat Belt Wearing’. You must:

keep this in your vehicle

show it to the police if you’re stopped

You’ll also need to tell your car insurer.

Talk to your doctor for more information and read ‘medical exemptions from compulsory seat belt wearing’.

Wearing a seat belt while pregnant

You must wear a seat belt if you’re pregnant, unless your doctor says you don’t have to for medical reasons.

Wearing a seat belt if you’re disabled

You must wear a seat belt if you’re a disabled driver or passenger, unless you don’t have to for medical reasons. You may need to adapt your vehicle.

If your vehicle doesn’t have seat belts

If your vehicle doesn’t have seat belts, for example it’s a classic car, you aren’t allowed to carry any children under 3 years old in it (your vehicle).

Children over 3 are only allowed to sit in the back seats.

These rules only apply if your vehicle was originally made without seat belts.


Driving disqualifications

Overview

You can be banned (disqualified) from driving if you are either:

convicted of a driving offence

get 12 or more penalty points (endorsements) within 3 years

You’ll get a summons in the post that tells you when you must go to court.

Some disqualification rules are different in Northern Ireland.

How long a driving ban will last

The court (court) will decide how long the disqualification (a driving ban) will last, based on how serious they (court) think the offence (a driving offence) is.

You can be banned from driving if you already have 12 or more penalty points on your licence. Your ban (a driving ban) can last:

6 months, if you get 12 or more penalty points within 3 years

12 months, if you get a second disqualification within 3 years

2 years, if you get a third disqualification within 3 years

Disqualified for 56 days or more

If you’re disqualified for 56 days or more you must apply for a new licence before driving again.

You might also have to retake your driving test or take an extended driving test before getting your full licence. The court (court) will tell you if you have to do this.

Disqualified for less than 56 days

View your driving licence record online to check the disqualification. You cannot drive until it has ended.

You do not need to apply for a new licence before you can drive again.

Disqualification outside Great Britain

You cannot drive in Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man if you’ve been banned from driving on your Great Britain driving licence.

This is called ‘mutual recognition of disqualification’. Disqualified drivers from Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man are also banned from driving in Great Britain.

Check when your disqualification ends

You can find the date your driving ban ends:

online

on the reminder form D27 that DVLA sends you 56 days before your disqualification ends

on the D27PH letter issued 90 days before certain drink-related disqualifications end

by contacting DVLA (if you’re in Northern Ireland, contact DVA)

Apply to reduce your disqualification period

You can ask the court (court) to reduce your disqualification period after you’ve been banned from driving for:

2 years - if the disqualification was for fewer than 4 years

half the disqualification period - if it (the disqualification) was for at least 4 but under 10 years

5 years - if the disqualification was for 10 years or more

You must have a good reason for asking for the disqualification to be reduced. For example, if you think the court (court) made a legal mistake or there were reasons you committed the driving offence that the court (court) did not take into account.

Write to the court that disqualified you (court) with the date of offence, date of conviction and any other supporting information.

The court (court) will tell DVLA if it (court) decides to reduce your disqualification period. If it (court) does, you’ll need to apply for a new licence.

If the court (court) refuses your request you have to wait 3 months before you can ask again.

If your disqualification (the disqualification) is reduced

Car or motorbike licences

Apply for a new licence by sending DVLA a completed form D1 ‘Application for a driving licence’, available from the DVLA form ordering service or most Post Offices. You must pay a fee.

Lorry or bus licences

Apply for a new licence by sending DVLA a completed form D2 ‘Application for a lorry/bus licence’, available from the DVLA form ordering service. You must pay a fee.

Northern Ireland

Apply to the DVA to renew your licence.

If you need to retake your test

If the court (court) told you that you must take another driving test before driving again, you’ll have to apply for a new provisional licence.

You can drive as soon as your ban is over and you’ve passed the tests you need to take.

How to get a new licence

DVLA will send you a reminder 56 days before your disqualification ends - use this to apply for a new provisional driving licence. If you did not get a reminder, order an application form instead. Order form D1 for a car and motorbike licence or form D2 for a lorry and bus licence.

Book and take a theory and practical test (or compulsory basic training and motorcycle practical test if you ride a motorcycle). Book and take an extended practical test if the court (court) told you to take one. The extended practical test lasts at least 60 minutes and has higher fees.

When you’ve passed the practical test, ask the examiner to arrange for your new licence to be sent to you - you can legally drive as soon as you’ve passed the practical test.

If you want to drive a large vehicle (category C) or a bus (category D) the local traffic commissioner must agree - DVLA will ask them when you apply for your new full licence.

There’s a different process in Northern Ireland.

If you’ve got a licence from an EU country

Do not apply for a provisional licence - you can use your EU driving licence to take the test instead.

Follow the usual rules for learning to drive until you retake your test and pass.

Changes to your name and address while disqualified

Tell DVLA if you change your name or address while disqualified.

Write with details of your old and new address, name if changed, your driving licence number (if known) and date of birth.

Disqualification for drink-driving

You can be disqualified if you’re found guilty of drink-driving. Depending on your offence, you can also be fined or sent to prison.

You’ll need to apply for a new licence after your disqualification (Disqualification for drink-driving) ends.

If you’re disqualified from driving for 12 months or more, you might be able to reduce your ban by taking a drink-drive rehabilitation course.

High risk offenders

If you’re a ‘high risk offender’, you will not get your new licence until you can prove you’re fit to drive again. You’ll need to pass a medical examination with one of DVLA’s (DVLA) appointed doctors.

You’re a high risk offender if you:

were convicted of 2 drink driving offences within 10 years

were driving with an alcohol reading of at least 87.5 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres (ml) of breath, 200 milligrammes (mg) of alcohol per 100 ml of blood, or 267.5 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of urine

refused to give the police a sample of breath, blood or urine to test for alcohol

refused to allow a sample of your blood to be tested for alcohol (for example if it was taken when you were unconscious)

You’ll get a D27PH renewal form 90 days before your disqualification (Disqualification for drink-driving) ends. You must fill in the form and send it to DVLA to reapply for your licence.

Medical examination with a DVLA doctor

Once DVLA receive your application for a new licence, they (DVLA)’ll send you the doctors details so you can make an appointment.

You have to pay for your examination (Medical examination with a DVLA doctor).

During the examination (Medical examination with a DVLA doctor), you’ll:

complete a questionnaire about your medical history and use of alcohol

take part in a physical examination

have your blood tested

The process is different in Northern Ireland.

Disqualification for drug driving

You can be disqualified from driving for at least 1 year if you’re found guilty of drug driving. Depending on your offence, you can also be fined or sent to prison.

You must apply for a new licence before you can drive again.


Vehicle approval

Overview

You must apply for vehicle approval if you’ve:

built a vehicle

rebuilt a vehicle

radically altered a vehicle

reconstructed a classic vehicle

imported a vehicle

Get a vehicle approved

You can get a single vehicle or small number of vehicles approved through:

Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA)

Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA)  if you’re making or importing a single 2, 3 or smaller 4-wheeled vehicle

Mutual Recognition scheme if you’re importing a vehicle that’s been approved and registered in the EU

You can no longer apply for a Pre-Registration Inspection (PRI). You must get your vehicle approved instead.

Vehicle type approval

It’s also possible to get approval for a type of vehicle, rather than each individual vehicle.

Only the vehicle manufacturer or their authorised representative can apply for this (Vehicle type approval).

From 1 January 2021, manufacturers or their representatives will need to apply for provisional GB type approval to sell or register vehicles in England, Scotland and Wales.

Get help

Contact the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) if you need help with IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA)) or MSVA.

Contact the VCA if you need help or information about:

provisional approval

European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA)

European Community Small Series Type Approval (ECSSTA)

Mutual Recognition scheme

Exemptions from vehicle approval

You do not need vehicle approval for:

heavy goods vehicles (more than 3,500kg maximum weight) over 25 years old

light goods vehicles (3,500kg maximum weight or less) over 10 years old

cars and minibuses with 8 passenger seats or less (not including the driver) over 10 years old

buses, coaches and minibuses with more than 8 passenger seats (not including the driver) built by a single manufacturer before 29 July 2010

buses, coaches and minibuses with more than 8 passenger seats (not including the driver) with different body and chassis manufacturers, made before 29 July 2011

tracked vehicles, for example a vehicle that runs on tracks rather than wheels

vehicles designed and constructed for use on construction sites, quarries, ports and airports

vehicles designed and constructed for and used by the armed services, fire and rescue forces, or used in maintaining public order

If your vehicle needs approval, you must send proof of this in when you apply to register it. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will not register your vehicle if you do not.

Individual Vehicle Approval

You can use the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme if you’re making or importing a single vehicle or a very small number of vehicles in the following categories:

passenger cars

goods vehicles

buses and coaches

trailers

special purpose vehicles, such as vehicles specially designed to hold a wheelchair

You cannot use the Statutory IVA scheme (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme) if your vehicle has been registered before in the UK - you’ll need to use Voluntary IVA instead.

Vehicle identification number

Your vehicle needs a vehicle identification number (VIN) before having an IVA inspection. Apply to DVLA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) if it does not have one.

Basic and normal IVA

There are 2 levels of IVA inspection: basic and normal.

Basic IVA

Basic IVA involves a visual inspection and other tests to make sure the vehicle meets the necessary standards. You will not normally need to provide any documentary evidence.

You can apply if you have a passenger car or light goods vehicle in one of these categories:

left-hand drive vehicles

personal imports

amateur built vehicles (kit cars)

rebuilt vehicles

very low volume production vehicles

ambulances

motor caravans

hearses

armoured passenger vehicles

a vehicle manufactured using parts of a registered vehicle

Read the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA ) guide on the IVA scheme (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme) for more on these categories.

Normal IVA

You’ll have to apply for normal IVA if you do not meet the criteria for basic IVA.

This (normal IVA) involves a more detailed inspection. Vehicles have to meet extra standards and you’ll have to provide documentary evidence.

Modified goods vehicles

You can use the IVA scheme (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme) to get approval for goods vehicles that have been modified.

Read the DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) guide on IVA for modified goods vehicles to find out how changes are approved.

How to show your vehicle meets IVA standards

There are several ways to prove your vehicle meets IVA standards. Read part 5 of the DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) guide on the IVA scheme (the DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) guide on IVA for modified goods vehicles) (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme) for more details.

Model reports

One way of proving your vehicle is compliant is by showing it’s the same specification as another vehicle (a ‘master vehicle’) that’s been proved compliant. You do this using a model report.

If a model report has already been produced for your exact model of vehicle, you may be able to use it for a fee. Look for it on the DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) list of model reports and their owners.

Otherwise, you’ll need to pay for your own tests to be carried out. These must be done by an authorised provider of ‘designated technical services’.

For more information on model reports, see part 11 of the DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) guide on the IVA scheme (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme).

How to apply

Download and fill in the IVA application form for your type of vehicle.

Follow the instructions on the form (a model report) to submit it (a model report) to DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)).

DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) should offer you an inspection within 20 working days of receiving your completed application.

Choosing a test station

Your vehicle will be inspected at either one of DVSA’s (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) approved test stations or a privately owned test facility. You should say which one you want to use on your application form (a model report).

Cost of the scheme (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme)

You have to pay a fee for DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) to inspect your vehicle.

What happens next

Wherever possible, DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) will inspect your vehicle at the test location you’ve chosen and issue an Individual Approval Certificate (IAC) if it (your vehicle) passes. You’ll need this certificate when you register your vehicle.

Appeal against a refusal

You can appeal and have a re-examination carried out by an independent inspector if your vehicle does not pass its (your vehicle) inspection and you’re not satisfied with the decision.

You must make your appeal (appeal) within 14 days of the decision and you’ll have to pay a fee. This will be refunded, either partially or fully, if your appeal (appeal) is successful.

You must not modify the vehicle (your vehicle) before the appeal inspection.

You can appeal by downloading and filling in the IVA (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme) notice of appeal.

Read part 8 of the DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) guide on the IVA scheme (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme) for more information about appeals.

Individual Vehicle Approval manuals

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) published a series of manuals listing all the technical requirements for Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA).

There are different manuals for different types of vehicle:

M1 vehicles - passenger cars

M2 and M3 vehicles - buses and coaches

N1 vehicles - light goods vehicles (up to 3,500kgs)

N2 and N3 vehicles - heavy goods vehicles (over 3,500kgs)

O1, O2, O3 and O4 vehicles - light and heavy trailers

Individual Vehicle Approval application forms

You need an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) application form to apply for an inspection.

Find out how to:

apply for IVA (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme): cars

apply for IVA (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme): vans and light goods vehicles

apply for IVA (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme): buses or coaches

apply for IVA (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme): lorries and goods vehicles

apply for IVA (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme): trailers

prove that a bus or coach does not need a new tilt test

apply for a vehicle approval test at a non-DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) site

All passenger vehicles

Download the form for seat belt anchorage compliance.

Amateur built vehicles

If your vehicle is amateur built (for example a kit car), you must send an amateur built declaration along with your IVA (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme) application.

Voluntary approval

Voluntary Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) is similar to Statutory IVA but:

you can use it (Voluntary Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA)) if your vehicle has already been registered in the UK

you will not have the same rights as with Statutory IVA

You’ll need to choose whether to use the basic or normal level of Voluntary IVA (Voluntary Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA)).

If you drive a taxi, your licensing authority will tell you what level you need to apply for.

Use Statutory IVA instead if your vehicle:

has not been registered in the UK before

has been registered in the UK, but has been modified significantly since then

Cost of the schemes

You have to pay a fee for Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) to inspect your vehicle.

How to apply

Download and fill in the IVA (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme) application form for your type of vehicle.

Follow the instructions on the form (the IVA (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme) application form for your type of vehicle) to submit it (the IVA (the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) scheme) application form for your type of vehicle) to DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)).

What happens next

DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) will carry out an inspection of the vehicle (your vehicle). If it (your vehicle) passes, you’ll get a ‘Confirmation of Compliance’ notification (not an approval certificate).

Find out more

Read the DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)) guide on the IVA scheme.

Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval

Your motorcycle, 3-wheeled or light 4-wheeled vehicle must have a provisional GB type approval in England, Scotland and Wales.

If your vehicle does not have a provisional GB type approval you must use the Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) scheme to approve your vehicle.

You must also use the MSVA scheme (the Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) scheme) if your vehicle has been radically altered or built using a mixture of parts from previously registered vehicles. For example:

amateur built vehicles

rebuilt vehicles

vehicles converted to a different wheelplan

Eligibility for MSVA (the Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) scheme)

You can use the MSVA scheme (the Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) scheme) for vehicles that:

are under 10 years old

have not been registered before in the UK

do not have ECWVTA or provisional UK vehicle type approval

The following types of vehicle are eligible:

2-wheeled mopeds

3-wheeled mopeds

light quadricycles

solo motorcycles

motorcycle combinations

motor tricycles

heavy quadricycles

These vehicle types are defined in the foreword of the MSVA inspection manual.

Partial MSVA

If you have a Certificate of Conformity (CoC), it will say which side of the road and which speedometer units your vehicle is equipped for.

You must modify your vehicle if it is not equipped for use in Great Britain. It will then need a Partial MSVA to check the following items:

headlamp dipped beam pattern - this checks the headlamp is suitable for driving on the left

speedometer - the speed must be shown in miles per hour (mph) or dual mph and kilometres per hour

mirror location - on mopeds fitted with a single mirror, the mirror must be fitted to offside (right) of the vehicle

Read more in Partial MSVA frequently asked questions.

Vehicle identification number

Your vehicle needs a vehicle identification number before having an MSVA inspection. Write to the following address if it does not have one.

Cost of the scheme (the Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) scheme)

You have to pay a fee for DVSA to inspect your vehicle.

Choose a test station

Your vehicle will be inspected by DVSA at one of its (DVSA) approved test stations. You can choose which one as long as it (DVSA) inspects the category of vehicle you want to be tested.

Category | Description

B | 2-wheeled vehicles

T | 3-wheeled vehicles

Q | 4-wheeled vehicles

Station | Address | Categories

Aberdeen | Cloverhill Road, Bridge of Don Industrial Estate, Aberdeen, AB23 8FE | B, T, Q

Beverley | Oldbeck Road, Off Grovehill Road, Beverley, East Yorkshire, HU17 0JW | B, T, Q

Bristol | Merebank Road, Avonmouth, Bristol, BS11 8AQ | B, T, Q

Cardiff (Llantrisant) | School Road, Miskin, Pontyclun, Mid Glamorgan, CF72 8YR | B, T, Q

Chelmsford | Widford Industrial Estate, Chelmsford, CM1 3DR | B, Q

Derby | Belmore Way, Alvaston, Derby, DE21 7AY | B, T, Q

Edinburgh (Livingston) | Grange Road, Houston Industrial Estate, Livingston, Edinburgh, West Lothian, EH54 5DE | B, T, Q

Exeter | Grace Road West, Marsh Barton Trading Estate, Exeter, Devon, EX2 8PU | B, T, Q

Gillingham | Ambley Road, Gillingham, ME8 0SJ | B, T, Q

Kidderminster | Worcester Road, Kidderminster, DY11 7RD | B, T, Q

Leighton Buzzard | Stanbridge Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, LU7 4QG | B, T, Q

London West (Yeading) | Cygnet Way, Willow Tree Lane, Yeading, Hayes, Middlesex, UB4 9BS | T, Q

Manchester (Chadderton) | Broadway Business Park, Broadgate, Manchester (Chadderton), Oldham, OL9 9XA | B, T, Q

Newcastle-upon-Tyne | Sandy Lane, Gosforth, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE3 5HB | B, T, Q

Norwich | Jupiter Road, Hellesden, Norwich, NR6 6SS | B, T, Q

Southampton (Northam) | Unit R Centurion Industrial Estate, Bitterne Road West, Southampton, SO18 1UB | B, T, Q

How to apply

Download and fill in the:

MSVA application form

Partial MSVA application form

Follow the instructions on the form (Partial MSVA application form) to submit it (Partial MSVA application form) to DVSA.

What happens next

DVSA will inspect your vehicle at the test station you’ve chosen and issue a Minister’s Approval Certificate (MAC) if it passes. You’ll need this certificate when you register your vehicle.

Appeals

You can appeal for a re-test if your vehicle fails MSVA. You must appeal within 14 days of the original decision by completing form MSVA17 and returning it (Partial MSVA application form) to the station used for the original test (the test station you’ve chosen).

You’ll have to pay the test fee again, which will be refunded if the appeal (appeal) is successful. Contact DVSA to find out how to do this (appeal).

More information

Read the MSVA inspection manual.

Certificate of Initial Fitness

Who can use the scheme (MSVA)

If you use a vehicle with more than 8 passenger seats to transport people for profit, also known as a Public Service Vehicle (PSV), it must have been approved or have a Certificate of Initial Fitness (COIF) to register it.

What vehicles need a COIF

You’ll need a COIF for your vehicle if it has more than 8 passenger seats, will be used for profit and either:

is not registered in the UK and was built before the type approval scheme was introduced

is registered in the UK but does not have a type approval as a passenger vehicle with more than 8 passenger seats

The start dates for this scheme (MSVA) vary depending on the type of vehicle. See page 10 of the Individual Vehicle Approval scheme guide for details.

How to apply for a COIF

Download and fill in the COIF application form.

Follow the instructions on the form (the COIF application form) to submit it (the COIF application form) to DVSA.

Cost of the scheme (MSVA)

You have to pay a fee for the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) (DVSA) to inspect your vehicle.

What happens next

Once you’ve submitted your application (the COIF application form), DVSA will contact you to arrange for your PSV’s COIF examination to be carried out at a DVSA-approved test station.

Notifiable Alterations

You must send details to DVSA of any alterations or modifications you make to your PSV (your PSV’s).

Send your completed application to the address on the form (the COIF application form) along with any relevant documents.

You do not need to notify DVSA of like-for-like replacement parts.

Accessibility Certificate Test

Some buses and coaches must have accessibility features for wheelchair users, like boarding lifts and ramps, wheelchair spaces and wheelchair restraints.

This affects buses and coaches, which:

are authorised to carry more than 22 passengers

carry passengers at separate fares on local or scheduled services

were first used on or after 31 December 2000

Manufacturers of buses and coaches usually apply for these Accessibility Certificates at the same time as the Certificate of Initial Fitness (COIF) when the vehicles (Some buses and coaches) are first built.

How to apply for an Accessibility Certificate

If you already have a COIF you can apply for an Accessibility Certificate separately.

You can also apply for an Accessibility Certificate yourself if you convert a vehicle to be used as a bus or coach.

Accessibility Certificates last the lifetime of the vehicle as long as you do not make any further alterations to it. Once you have an Accessibility Certificate, accessibility is then checked as part of the vehicle’s annual test.

Fill in the PSV accessibility certificate application form.

Follow the instructions on the form (the PSV accessibility certificate application form) to submit it (the PSV accessibility certificate application form) to DVSA.

Fees for the Accessibility Certificate test

You’ll need to check both wheelchair accessibility and general accessibility. Each of these sets of regulations is called a schedule.

Test type | Fee

1 schedule | £51

Retest for 1 schedule | £17

2 schedules | £104

Retest for 2 schedules | £36

Duplicate certificate | £13

Type approval

Alternatively, vehicle manufacturers can apply for type approval, which means an Accessibility Certificate is not needed.

Print off and fill in form PSVA6 to apply for type approval.

When an operator gets a vehicle that’s been type approved they’ll get a Declaration of Conformity from the manufacturer.

Operators then need to send this (a Declaration of Conformity) to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) (DVSA) to get a Certification of Conformity.

Fees for type approval are included on the IVA inspection fees document.

Inspection fees

You have to pay a fee for the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) (DVSA) to inspect your vehicle.

The cost (a fee) depends on:

whether you’re using the standard or voluntary version of the scheme

the type of inspection (basic or normal)

the category of vehicle

the class of vehicle

To find out which category and class your vehicle is in, see annexes 1 and 2 of the DVSA guide to the IVA scheme (the scheme).

Where to find inspection fees

The DVSA list of inspection fees includes the fees for:

Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA)

Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA)

Certificate of Initial Fitness (COIF)

Replacement approval certificate

You can apply for a replacement approval certificate. Submit your application using the apply for an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) service.


Driver CPC training for qualified drivers

How much training you need to do

You must do 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years to keep your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) to drive a lorry, bus or coach.

You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving professionally without Driver CPC (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC)).

You can check how many hours of training you’ve done in the current 5-year period.

You only need to complete one set of training every 5 years if you drive both lorries and buses professionally.

There’s a different process if you live in Northern Ireland.

You have to do the training in the country where you work or normally live.

When to take training

Your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) qualification lasts for 5 years. To keep your Driver CPC (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC)) you need to do 35 hours of training before your 5-year deadline.

The deadline to do your training is shown on your card.

It’s up to you when you take the training courses, as long as you do them within the 5-year period (the current 5-year period).

If you miss your training deadline (your 5-year deadline)

It’s illegal to drive professionally if you have not done your training by your deadline (your 5-year deadline).

Drivers with ‘acquired rights’

Having ‘acquired rights’ means that you did not have to take the Driver CPC initial qualification because of your existing driving experience.

You have acquired rights if you got your vocational licence before the dates shown in the table.

| Vehicle categories included | When you got your vocational licence

Lorry | C, C1, C+E and C1+E | Before 10 September 2009

Bus or coach | D, D1, D+E, D1+E | Before 10 September 2008

Bus or coach (not for hire or reward) | D(101) | After 1991

Minibus (not for hire or reward) | D1(101) | Before 1997

Training deadlines for drivers with acquired rights

You still need to take periodic training, but there are set deadlines.

| Lorry driver | Bus or coach driver | Dual-category driver (lorry, bus and coach)

First block of training | 9 September 2014 | 9 September 2013 | 9 September 2013

Second block of training | 9 September 2019 | 9 September 2018 | 9 September 2019

Third block of training | 9 September 2024 | 9 September 2023 | 9 September 2024

If you did not do your first block of training

You can finish your training or take extra tests if you have acquired rights and did not finish your first block of training by the deadline.

Finding training courses

All approved Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) courses count towards periodic training. Different courses cover different parts of the Driver CPC syllabus.

Find CPC courses to attend.

The minimum length of a training course is 7 hours. It can be taken over 2 consecutive days and can include up to 2 hours of online training before you start.

Taking a non-Driver CPC course

Some non-Driver CPC courses count towards your 35 hours. For example, you can take up to 14 hours of training for transport-related EU Directives, such as ADR (transporting dangerous goods).

Contact DVSA if you want to check whether a course counts towards your training.

Taking the same course more than once

You can only take the same course more than once in each 5-year period if you have a good reason to repeat it (the same course) - for example, maintaining a dangerous goods qualification.

If you do not have a good reason, DVSA can cancel the hours you got from the course (the same course). You might lose your Driver CPC card if cancelling the hours takes your total back under 35 hours.

Repeating a non-Driver CPC course

You cannot repeat non-Driver CPC courses during your training period.

The only exception is training in ADR (ADR (transporting dangerous goods)). You can take 2 7-hour ADR (ADR (transporting dangerous goods)) courses during the 5-year training period. If you do this, you cannot count any other non-Driver CPC courses towards your training.

Driver CPC course costs

Training providers set their own prices for courses - there’s no maximum price.

Taking a training course

You must take one of these to your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training course:

a photocard driving licence

a valid passport

a digital tachograph card

a Driver CPC card

You’re required to attend courses, but there are no tests or exams to pass at the end of them. Instead, you’ll get a certificate of attendance. It belongs to you - your employer is not allowed to keep it.

Your Driver CPC training record

The training centre will put your training on your Driver CPC training record.

Contact the centre where you did your training (The training centre) if it (a certificate of attendance) is not showing on your record 5 days after the course.

If you took a non-Driver CPC course

If you took a non-Driver CPC course, the provider will not upload your records. Email DVSA with the details. Include:

your name

your driving licence number

your date of birth

your address

the date you completed the training

proof you completed the training - for example, a copy of a training certificate

Problems with a training course

You can email the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) (DVSA) if you think the training provided was not to the right standard, for example the course did not last as long as it (the course) should have.

Getting your Driver CPC card

You’ll get your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card when you’ve done 35 hours of periodic training. The card is sometimes called a ‘driver qualification card’ or ‘DQC’.

You must carry this card (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card) while driving a lorry, bus or coach professionally.

You can get a £50 fixed penalty for driving professionally without your card (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card).

You must replace your card (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card) if it (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card)’s lost or stolen.

When you’ll be sent your (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card) card (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card)

You’ll get your new Driver CPC card straight away if you complete your training in the 12 months before your deadline.

If you complete your training more than a year early

You will not get your new Driver CPC card until nearer the time your current card expires.

You can check when you’ll get your new card (your new Driver CPC card).

How the card (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card) is sent to you

Your Driver CPC card (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card) will be sent automatically to the address on your driving licence. You need to change this address first if it’s wrong.

You only need to apply for your card (your new Driver CPC card) if you did some of your periodic training in an EU country.

The Driver CPC card (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card) does not have your address on it (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card), so you do not have to get a new one if your address (the address on your driving licence) changes.

The photo and signature on your photocard driving licence will be used on your Driver CPC card (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card).

Waiting for your card

You can still drive professionally while waiting for your card (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card) if both of the following apply:

you’ve done your periodic training

your training provider has recorded the training (your periodic training) (they must do this within 5 working days of the training (your periodic training) ending)

If your card (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card) does not arrive

Contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) if you do not receive your new card within 20 days of the date you’re due to get it.

You’ll have to pay £25 if:

you take longer than 3 months to tell DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) it (your new card) has not arrived

it (your new card)’s sent to an old address because you have not updated your licence

If you miss your training deadline

If you miss your deadline (your training deadline), you cannot drive professionally until you’ve finished your training.

You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving professionally without Driver CPC.

Your next deadline will be set for 5 years after the date you finish your training.

How long training counts for

Any training you’ve already done counts for 5 years from the date you took the course. You do not lose it because you’ve passed your deadline.

The training (Any training you’ve already done) will not count towards the 35 hours total if you took it (Any training you’ve already done) more than 5 years ago.

If you have acquired rights

If you have acquired rights you can either:

complete 35 hours of Driver CPC periodic training by finding and taking training courses

take and pass the Driver CPC part 2 (case studies) and part 4 (practical demonstration) tests

You can only choose the test option once. After that, you must take periodic training to keep your qualification in the future.

Booking the tests

You have to book the tests by phone - you cannot book online.

Training in EU countries and Switzerland

You need to apply for your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card in writing if you:

have a UK or Great Britain (GB) driving licence

took some of your periodic training in an EU country or Switzerland

did the final 7 hours of your periodic training in England, Scotland or Wales

What you need to send

You need to include:

your driving licence number

your name and address

your phone number

your training certificates from an EU country or Switzerland

a £25 fee to add training taken abroad to your Driver CPC card (your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card)

You must include the original documents - photocopies are not accepted.

Where to send the documents (the original documents)

Send all the documents (the original documents) to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) if you live in England, Scotland or Wales.

There’s a different process if you live in Northern Ireland.

Documents that are not in English

You need to send documents with an English translation on headed paper from an educational organisation or embassy.

How to pay your fee

You can either:

pay over the phone using a credit or debit card - DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will phone you to take the payment

pay by cheque or postal order - send your payment to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) with your documents

If you have a licence from another country

If you have a licence from another country, there are 2 ways to get a Great Britain (GB) Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card. You should either:

complete your periodic training in England, Scotland or Wales

exchange your driver’s licence for a GB licence - you must have a code 95 entitlement on your non-GB licence to do this

Complete your training in England, Scotland or Wales

You can get a GB Driver CPC card if you’ve done the final 7 hours of your periodic training in England, Scotland or Wales.

You must also live or work in England, Scotland or Wales and have a driving licence from any of these countries:

an EU country

Gibraltar

Guernsey

Iceland

Isle of Man

Jersey

Liechtenstein

Norway

Switzerland

To apply for a GB Driver CPC card, send an email to the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) asking for form DQC1.

If you live in Northern Ireland, contact the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA).

Exchange your driving licence for a GB licence

If you have a code 95 entitlement on your licence (your driving licence), you can get a GB Driver CPC card by exchanging your licence (your driving licence) for a GB licence.

Your Driver CPC qualification will still last until the date it was due to run out when you first got it.

When you exchange your licence, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will tell DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) for you.

If you already have an EU Driver CPC card

You’ll need to send your EU Driver CPC card (an EU Driver CPC card) to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) if you want to exchange it (an EU Driver CPC card) for a GB Driver CPC card. Send it (an EU Driver CPC card) with a short letter which includes your:

driving licence number

name and address

phone number

DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will send you a new Driver CPC card with the same number as your driving licence.

From then on, after doing 35 hours of periodic training in England, Scotland or Wales, you’ll get your Driver CPC qualification for 5 years.

If you live in Northern Ireland, contact DVA (the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA)).


Specialist tests for coaches and buses

Overview

You must get your commercial vehicle tested every year to make sure it’s roadworthy. This is known as the annual test.

There are extra tests coaches and buses may need to take to:

qualify for free entrance to the London Low Emission Zone (LEZ) by getting a Low Emissions Certificate (LEC)

meet seat belt safety rules

Reduced emissions test

You can get your vehicle tested for a Low Emissions Certificate (LEC). This lets you drive in the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) (the London Low Emission Zone (LEZ)) without paying.

The Reduced Pollution Certificate (RPC) scheme to reduce your vehicle tax ended on 31 December 2016.

Eligibility

Your vehicle can be tested for a Low Emissions Certificate if it:

was registered in the UK before 1 October 2006

is fitted with a full filter to Low Emission Zone emissions standards

You don’t need a Low Emission Certificate for a vehicle with a Euro 4, 5 or 6 engine.

Converted and re-engined vehicles

Contact DVLA if the vehicle has either:

been fitted or converted to run solely on petrol

had an approved gas conversion

Contact Transport for London (TfL) if your vehicle has been ‘re-engined’ to meet Low Emission Zone standards.

Book a Low Emissions Certificate test

Contact an authorised testing facility or Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) test station to book the test (a Low Emissions Certificate test).

You need:

your vehicle registration number

your vehicle identification or chassis number

the make, model and date of manufacture

details of any modifications made to meet the emissions standard

to pay the fee

It’s cheaper to have the test (a Low Emissions Certificate test) done at the same time as the vehicle’s annual test.

What to take to the test (a Low Emissions Certificate test)

If it (the vehicle’s)’s been tested before you must take the vehicle’s previous Low Emissions Certificate or Reduced Pollution Certificate.

The test (a Low Emissions Certificate test) can be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if you don’t take the certificate.

What happens at the test (a Low Emissions Certificate test)

The test (a Low Emissions Certificate test) is in 2 parts:

physical inspection to check any modifications, such as a filter fitted to the exhaust

smoke opacity test to check emissions

Test result

You’ll get a Low Emissions Certificate if your vehicle (the vehicle’s) passes the test (a Low Emissions Certificate test).

DVSA (Transport for London (TfL)) will pass your details to TfL (Transport for London (TfL)) automatically. It takes around 3 days for your details to be updated so you can drive in the Low Emission Zone.

If your vehicle is registered outside Great Britain, you need to register with TfL (Transport for London (TfL)) yourself. You can be fined up to £1,000 if you don’t register it.

If your vehicle (the vehicle’s) fails

You can appeal the result. Fill in form LEC3 and send it to DVSA (Transport for London (TfL)). The address is on the form.

Renewing a Low Emissions Certificate

The Low Emissions Certificate (a Low Emissions Certificate) has an expiry date on it (a Low Emissions Certificate). You need to get your vehicle tested again by this date if you want to continue driving in the Low Emission Zone without paying.

You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving in the Low Emission Zone without a valid Low Emissions Certificate.

Seat belt installation tests

Manufacturers of some buses, coaches and minibuses must make sure their seat belts meet certain safety rules.

Vehicles that need to be tested

If your vehicle has additional seat belts fitted beyond those required by law, it must be tested if:

it (your vehicle)’s a private passenger vehicle with more than 8 passenger seats and was first used on or after 1 October 2001

it (your vehicle)’s a public service vehicle

Exemptions

Private passenger vehicles registered before 1 October 2001 are exempt.

Buses made to carry standing passengers are also exempt, but if they have seat belts these must be tested.

Public service vehicles that need a Certificate of Initial Fitness (COIF) have their (Buses made to carry standing passengers) seat belts checked as part of this process.

Arrange a test

You can get your passenger vehicle’s seat belt installation tested at one of the following centres:

Status

Millbrook proving ground

Transport research laboratory

Manufacturers can test their own seat belts as long as they have the right equipment and staff.

Testing seat belts is usually part of obtaining a COIF on new vehicles.

You can get more advice about testing your passenger vehicle’s seat belts from DVSA.


Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

an axle load of more than 10,000kg for a single non-driving axle and 11,500kg for a single driving axle

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

If you’re responsible for transporting an abnormal load, you need to follow regulations for notifying the authorities.

Notifying the authorities

Depending on the load you’re moving and your route, you may need to give advance warning to:

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

notify the police, highways and bridge authorities (the authorities) of your abnormal load movements around the road network

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

You must allow time to get the necessary clearances from the police, highway and bridge authorities (the authorities). For example, a Special Order application must be completed 10 weeks before the scheduled date of the move.

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

Check with each country you’re travelling through to find out if the load you’re transporting counts as abnormal - if it does, you’ll need to:

keep the certificate (an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate) in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it (an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate) at the border


Setting up an Approved Tachograph Centre (ATC)

How to apply

If you want to set up an Approved Tachograph Centre (ATC), you will need to read the ATC manual and fill in form GV207.

Send your application to the address on the form (form GV207).

You can also contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) for the form and manual.

Costs and equipment

It costs:

£361 to register as an Approved Tachograph Centre (ATC)

£148 to renew your registration each year

You can register to work on analogue tachographs, digital tachographs, or both.

Equipment

The ATC manual tells you what equipment you’ll need to buy.

Who can work for you

You can only employ ‘nominated technicians’ to carry out work at an Approved Tachograph Centre (ATC). They must be skilled technicians with experience working on tachographs.

If they (‘nominated technicians’) need to road test vehicles, they (‘nominated technicians’) must also have a driving licence for the relevant categories of vehicles they (‘nominated technicians’)’re testing.

They (‘nominated technicians’)’ll also need to hold a ‘certificate of competence’ for each class of tachograph (digital, analogue or both) that they (‘nominated technicians’) want to work on.

They (‘nominated technicians’)’ll get this only after they (‘nominated technicians’)’ve  successfully completed a DVSA-approved (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) training course. You’ll find details in the ATC manual.

Tachograph workshop smart cards

A tachograph workshop card is used to calibrate digital tachographs. To be eligible for a workshop card, you must:

be a nominated technician working at an Approved Tachograph Centre (ATC) with digital status

hold a digital training certificate

Tachograph workshop cards are issued free of charge. They are automatically renewed every year on 31 March.

The cards (Tachograph workshop cards) are issued to a nominated technician, not to a centre - this means that only the individual who has the card can use it.

If you’re the nominated technician and you work at 2 workshops, you’ll need a card for each workshop.

How to apply

Print off and fill in form D778B and send it to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)), with a copy of an up-to-date analogue and digital training certificate.

Once DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) has checked and approved your application it will be forwarded to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), who will issue your card to the ATC where you work (an Approved Tachograph Centre (ATC)).

You’ll need a PIN code to use a workshop card. This will be sent to your home address, and must only be used by you.

If you enter the wrong PIN code 5 times in a row it (a PIN code) will lock the card and you’ll need to apply for a new card using form D778B. (form D778B)  You’ll also be issued with a new PIN code

Read ‘How to fill in your application for a digital tachograph workshop card (D778B)’ before you fill in the form.

For more help, contact the DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) helpline.

Working with tachograph workshop cards

Workshop cards can hold:

details of 88 calibrations

a small amount of events and faults data

A workshop card must not be used instead of a company card. If you have a card used by your calibration centre, this must only be used in accordance with the tachograph centre’s duties and not as a substitute company card.

All insertions of a card are recorded on the vehicle unit and the card.

Renewal of workshop cards

DVLA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) sends a renewal list to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) 2 months before a card’s expiry. This is then checked and returned to DVLA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) with details of technicians whose cards can be renewed.

You must report any lost or stolen cards to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) and the police immediately.

If your card is lost or stolen, you can apply for a replacement by printing off and filling in form D778B to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)). You’ll need to provide a police incident reference number for stolen cards.

If your card stops working

Try using the card (your card) in a different vehicle unit. If it (your card) still does not work, print off and fill in form D778B and sent it (form D778B) with the faulty card to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) to get a new card.

Any misuse of workshop cards may lead to the withdrawal of your nominated technician and tachograph centre’s approval.


MOT tester training and annual assessments

Staying qualified as an MOT tester

You must complete training and pass an assessment between April and March every year.

Your MOT tester status will be suspended if you do not pass the annual assessment (an assessment).

What you need to do

Do at least 3 hours of training each year and 16 hours in 5 years.

Keep a record of your training (training).

Book and take your assessment (an assessment).

If you pass the assessment (an assessment), you’ll get a certificate. You can check if your certificate has been uploaded in the ‘Annual assessment certificates’ section of your MOT testing service profile. Contact your training provider if it’s not been recorded correctly.

Training

You’re responsible for planning and doing your training. You must keep a record of your training.

You can train on your own or in a group by:

studying MOT inspection manuals, special notices and the testing guide

discussing what you’re learning with another tester (or group of testers)

demonstrating what you’re learning to another tester

learning from a more experienced tester

You can also book a training course through one of these providers:

ABC Awards

City & Guilds

Institute of the Motor Industry

Check with the provider (your training provider) for the cost.

What you need to study

The topics you need to study depend on whether you test class 1 and 2 vehicles (‘group A’) or class 3, 4, 5 and 7 vehicles (‘group B’).

Some topics are studied by both groups.

Group A (class 1 and 2 vehicles) (‘group A’)

If you test vehicles in group A (‘group A’), you need to know about:

new vehicle technology

MOT test procedures

MOT testing requirements

corrosion and standards of repair

the MOT inspection manual for motorcycles and sidecars

Group B (class 3, 4, 5 and 7 vehicles)

If you test vehicles in group B, you need to know about:

new vehicle technology

MOT testing requirements

corrosion and standards of repair

the MOT inspection manual for cars and passenger vehicles

Groups A and B (both groups)

If you test vehicles in both group A (‘group A’) and group B (both groups), you need to study all the topics. You also need to train for at least 6 hours a year (instead of 3) and take 2 annual assessments.

Keeping a record of your training

You have to keep records for 5 years.

You’ll need to record:

the MOT annual training year (for example May 2021 to March 2022)

the date of the training

how long the training session lasted

what topics you covered during the session (the training session)

notes on what you did, how you did it and what you learned

what vehicle groups your training covered

your name and MOT testing service user ID

You can use a template to record your training.

Taking your assessment

You can have your assessment at any point in the year, if you’ve done your training.

Book your assessment through one of these providers:

ABC awards

Institute of the Motor Industry

You have to pay for the assessment (your assessment) - check the cost with the provider.

What happens at the assessment (your assessment)

You take the assessment (your assessment) online, for example at home or at the provider.

The test is 30 multiple-choice questions. It usually takes around 1 hour.

Read examples of the types of questions you’ll be asked.

You can use your notes and the MOT inspection manual during the assessment (your assessment).

After your assessment

The pass mark for 1 May 2021 to 31 March 2022 is 80%.

You get a certificate if you pass your assessment. Keep it with your training record.

If you do not pass, there’s no limit on how many times you can take the assessment (your assessment) during the same year.

You must stop carrying out MOT tests if you have not passed by the end of the training year. Your MOT testing account will be suspended.

If you do not pass your assessment in the training year

You’ll need to do the training and pass the annual assessment on the next year’s topics. For example, if you did not pass the 2020 to 2021 assessment you will need to pass the 2021 to 2022 assessment.

Once you’ve passed, you need to request and pass an MOT demonstration test. Your account (Your MOT testing account) will then be unsuspended.

MOT demonstration tests are not taking place because of coronavirus (COVID-19). You can still email DVSA to request an MOT demonstration test. DVSA will contact you when testing restarts.

You’ll need to include:

your MOT testing service user ID

the MOT centre number of where you want to take the test

If you’ve carried out an MOT test in the last 12 months, DVSA will unsuspend your account (Your MOT testing account) and you’ll be able to do MOT tests again if you do the training and pass the 2021 to 2022 assessment. You will not need to do a demonstration test.

Email DVSA if you’ve carried out an MOT test in the last 12 months and have passed the 2021 to 2022 assessment, including:

your MOT testing service user ID

a copy of your certificate and training record

your MOT centre number


Approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test

Booking your test

You can book your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test when you’ve passed your ADI part 1 test.

It (your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test)’s the second of 3 tests you have to pass to qualify as an ADI. It (your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test)’s a test of your driving ability.

The ADI part 2 test (your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test) works differently in Northern Ireland.

To pass the test (your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test) you must be able to:

drive safely in different road and traffic conditions

show that you know The Highway Code by the way you drive

The national standard for driving cars tells you everything you must be able to do to pass the test (your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test).

You can find driving instructor training if you need help to prepare for the test (your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test).

Only take your test when you can do everything without instruction.

Driving tests and coronavirus (COVID-19)

You must also clean the inside of your car before your test. This means wiping down surfaces and tidying. The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

What to take to your test

You must bring:

your UK driving licence

your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 1 pass certificate

a face covering, unless it’s not safe for you to wear one

a suitable car

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

Reasons why you must not go to your test

Do not go to your driving test (your test) if:

you or someone you live with has coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms

you’ve been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

you’re self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Change your test appointment or cancel your test for free if you’re not able to go.

Wearing a face covering

You must bring and wear a face covering for your test, unless it’s not safe for you to do so. For example, because:

you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. Otherwise, your test will be cancelled if you arrive without one.

You can take it (a face covering) off during your test if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

If you do not have a photocard licence

Bring a valid passport and your paper licence.

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

Bring the Northern Ireland photocard and paper counterpart (a valid passport and your paper licence).

Rules for the car you use

When you take a test, your car must:

be taxed

be insured for a driving test (check with your insurance company)

be roadworthy and have a current MOT (if it’s over 3 years old)

be a saloon, hatchback or estate car in good working condition - you cannot use a convertible

have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light

have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted

be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it (your car) just before or during the test

be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer

have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

The MAM is the limit on how much the car can weigh when it’s loaded. It’ll be in the car’s (your car) handbook.

Your test will be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if your car does not meet the rules.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) safety

Because of COVID-19, you must clean the inside of your car before your test.

This (clean) means:

tidying unnecessary items from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

The car you use for your test (your car) must have at least one window open on each side throughout the test (your car). Any combination of windows can be opened - for example, one from the front and one from the back. Wear clothing suitable for the weather.

Vehicle fittings and features

The car (your car) must have:

an extra interior rear-view mirror for the examiner

a passenger seatbelt for the examiner and a proper passenger head restraint (not a slip-on type)

Dashcams and other cameras

You can use a camera fitted for insurance purposes, as long as it:

faces outside of the car (your car) and does not film the inside

does not record audio from inside the car (your car)

Vehicle features

You can use a car with:

an electronic parking brake

hill-start assist

Hire cars

You can take your test in a hire car if it’s fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Manual and automatic cars

If you have a manual licence, you can take the test in either a manual or automatic car. You’ll be able to train people in both types of car (Manual and automatic cars) when you’ve qualified.

If you have an automatic licence, you must take the test in an automatic car. You’ll only be able to train people in an automatic car when you’ve qualified.

Cars you cannot use

Some cars cannot be used in the test because they do not give the examiner all-round vision.

You cannot use any of the following:

BMW Mini convertible

Ford KA convertible

Toyota iQ

VW Beetle convertible

Check with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) before you book your test if you want to use a:

convertible car

panel van

Cars with known safety faults

You cannot use one of the cars shown in the table unless you have proof that it’s safe. This is because these cars have been recalled for a safety reason.

You must bring the proof that it’s safe (proof that it’s safe) with you when you take your test.

| Reason for recall | Vehicles affected | Recall issue date

Citroen C1 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Sep 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with vehicle identification numbers (VINs) between wF7xxxxxxER516105 and VF7xxxxxxER523367 | 28 Jun 2016

Peugeot 108 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between VF3xxxxxxER256527 and F3xxxxxxER017078 | 28 Jun 2016

Toyota Aygo | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between JTDJGNEC#0N022080 and 0N026438, JTDJPNEC#0N002099 and 0N002100, JTDKGNEC#0N022186 and 0N031372, and JTDKPNEC#0N002083 and 0N002102 | 28 Jun 2016

Toyota Yaris | Potentially defective seat rail track and/or steering column mounting | Some models built between Jun 2005 and May 2010 (‘05’ to ‘10’ registration plates) | 9 Apr 2014

Vauxhall ADAM | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6077301 to E6113446, and F6000001 to F6006544 | 29 Sep 2014

Vauxhall Corsa D | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6071016 and E6118738, and E4181031 and E4308122 | 29 Sep 2014

Proof you need to bring to your test

You must bring proof that says one of the following:

the car was recalled and the recall work has been done

the car was recalled but did not need any work to be done

the car was not part of the recall (recalled)

The proof must be either:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

on official or headed notepaper from the manufacturer (manufacturer) or a dealer

Your test will be cancelled and you could lose your fee if you do not bring the right proof.

What happens during the test (your test)

There are 5 parts to the approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test:

an eyesight check

‘show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions

general driving ability

manoeuvres

independent driving

How long the test (your test) lasts

The test (your test) takes around one hour.

The eyesight test (an eyesight check)

You’ll have to read a number plate from a distance of:

26.5 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate

27.5 metres for vehicles with an old-style number plate

New-style number plates start with 2 letters followed by 2 numbers, such as AB51 ABC.

You’ll fail the test (an eyesight check) if you do not pass the eyesight test (an eyesight check). It (an eyesight check) will count as one of the 3 attempts you’re allowed at the ADI part 2 test.

‘Show me, tell me’ questions

You’ll be asked 5 vehicle safety questions known as the ‘show me, tell me’ questions. These (‘Show me, tell me’ questions) test that you know how to carry out basic safety tasks.

You’ll be asked:

3 ‘tell me’ questions at the start of your test, before you start driving

2 ‘show me’ questions while you’re driving - for example, showing how to wash the windscreen using the car controls and wipers

You’ll get a driving fault for each incorrect answer you give.

You’ll get a serious fault and fail the test (your test) if you answer all 5 questions (‘Show me, tell me’ questions) incorrectly, or if you lose control of the car while answering any of the ‘show me’ questions.

Your general driving ability

You’ll have to show the examiner all of the following:

expert handling of the controls

use of correct road procedure

anticipation of the actions of other road users and then taking appropriate action

sound judgement of distance, speed and timing

consideration for the convenience and safety of other road users

driving in an environmentally-friendly manner

You’ll drive in varying road and traffic conditions, including motorways or dual carriageways where possible.

You might also be asked to carry out an emergency stop.

Reversing your vehicle

The examiner will ask you to do 2 of the following exercises:

parallel park at the side of the road

reverse into a parking bay and drive out

drive into a parking bay and reverse out

pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for around 2 car lengths, and rejoin the traffic

Independent driving

You’ll have to drive for about 20 minutes by following either:

directions from a sat nav

traffic signs

The examiner will tell you which you have to do.

Following directions from a sat nav

The examiner will provide the sat nav (a sat nav) and set it (a sat nav) up for you.

You cannot follow directions from your own sat nav during the test.

Going off the route

Your test result will not be affected if you take a wrong turning, unless you make a fault while doing it.

The examiner will help you get back on the route if you do.

If you cannot see traffic signs

If you cannot see a traffic sign (for example, because it’s covered by trees), the examiner will give you directions until you can see the next one.

If you make mistakes during your test

You can carry on if you make a mistake. It might not affect your test result if it’s not serious.

Your driving examiner will direct you back to the driving test centre if the mistake you made (a mistake) means you’ve failed. The test (your test) will end early.

Faults and test result

There are 3 types of faults you can make:

a dangerous fault - this involves actual danger to you, the examiner, the public or property

a serious fault - something potentially dangerous

a driving fault - this is not potentially dangerous, but if you keep making the same fault, it could become a serious fault

Pass mark

You’ll pass your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test if you make:

no more than 6 driving faults

no serious or dangerous faults

If you pass your test

The examiner will:

tell you what faults you made, if any

give you a copy of the driving test report

You can then either:

book your ADI part 3 test

apply for a trainee driving instructor licence

A trainee driving instructor licence can help you prepare for the ADI part 3 test (your ADI part 3 test).

If you do not pass

The examiner will tell you what faults you made.

You can take the test (your test) again if you fail at either your first or second attempt.

You have to pay again to book another test.

Failing the third attempt

You have to retake and pass the ADI part 1 test again if you fail the ADI part 2 test (your ADI part 3 test) 3 times.

You have to wait 2 years from when you first passed the ADI part 1 test before you can take it (the ADI part 1 test) again.

Appeal your ADI part 2 test (your ADI part 3 test)

You can appeal your test (your ADI part 3 test) if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law.

Read the guidance on appealing your test to check if your examiner followed the law.

If you have proof they (your examiner) did not follow the law you can complain to the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)

If DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)) agrees with your complaint, your test result cannot be changed but you might get a refund or a free retest.

If DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)) does not agree with your complaint you may be able to appeal to a court instead.

Appeal your test to a court

You can appeal if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law when they carried out your test.

Your test result cannot be changed, but you might get a refund or a free retest if your appeal is successful.

You might have to pay significant legal costs if your appeal is unsuccessful.

You’ll need to appeal within:

6 months of your test in England and Wales

21 days of your test in Scotland

Check if you can appeal.

If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your driving test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

If your test is suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this (suspended) happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You need to have passed a theory test in the last 2 years to take this test. Your theory test certificate will not be extended.

Bad weather

Driving tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.
The phone number for the test centre is on your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your car

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test

your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test (your test) or does not meet the rules to be used

If your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date (the date you’re given) if it (the date you’re given)’s not suitable.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) cancels your test at short notice.


Approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check

Overview

The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check assesses your ability to teach pupils.

The ADI standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) has replaced the ADI check test.

You have to take at least one ADI standards check during each 4-year period that you’re registered as an ADI.

You have to take a standards check even if you do not have a car or are not working as an ADI.

You can be removed from the ADI register if you do not book or go to your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check).

You can only take standards checks in English or Welsh.

There are different rules for taking a standards check in Northern Ireland.

Book your ADI standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check)

You’ll get a letter from DVSA when you need to book your approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check).

You can book a standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) online. It (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) doesn’t cost anything.

You’ll need your:

driving licence number

ADI personal reference number

Start now

Get help to book

Contact DVSA if you need help booking your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check).

What happens next

Your examiner will call you a few days before your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) to agree:

the exact start time

where you want the check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) to start from - this will be either the driving test centre or somewhere within 5 minutes of the test centre

What to take to your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check)

You must take:

your approved driving instructor (ADI) registration certificate

a face covering, unless it’s not safe for you to wear one

a car that meets the requirements

a pupil

Your pupil can be a:

partly trained learner

fully trained learner

full licence holder

If you bring a partly trained learner, they should be able to drive for 40 minutes without frequently stopping.

Your pupil cannot be an ADI or someone who is preparing to take the ADI part 3 test.

Reasons why you must not go to your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check)

Do not go to your ADI standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) if you or your pupil:

have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, or someone you live with has symptoms

have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

are self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Contact DVSA if you’re not able to go to your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check).

Wearing a face covering

You and your pupil must each bring and wear a face covering for your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check), unless it’s not safe for you to do so. For example, because:

you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it (a face covering) would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you cannot wear a face covering when you book your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check). Otherwise, your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) will be cancelled if you arrive without one.

You can take it off during your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Car requirements

The car you use for your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) must:

be roadworthy, safe and reliable - this means it (The car you use for your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check))’s less than 3 years old or has a valid MOT certificate

have working rear seat belts

be fitted with L plates (or D plates in Wales) if your pupil is a learner

You cannot use:

a soft-top convertible

a car with a 2+2 seating arrangement rather than full-size rear seats

Your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) will be cancelled if your car does not meet the requirements. Another appointment will be booked for you.

You can be removed from the ADI register if you keep bringing a car that does not meet the requirements.

COVID-19 safety

Because of COVID-19, you must clean the inside of your car before your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check). This means:

tidying unnecessary items from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

The car you use for your test (The car you use for your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check)) must have at least one window open on each side throughout the test (The car you use for your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check)). Any combination of windows can be opened - for example, one from the front and one from the back. Wear clothing suitable for the weather.

Bad weather

You should call the standards check bookings team as soon as you can on the day of your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) if there’s bad weather. Ask to speak to the ADI examiner.

If nobody answers the phone, and the conditions in your area are not looking too bad, it’s likely that the examiners are:

checking the local roads to see if driving tests can go ahead

taking driving tests because the conditions are suitable

However, this is not a guarantee that your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) will go ahead.

You should tell the standards check bookings team if your check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) is cancelled - they (the standards check bookings team)’ll make a new appointment.

What happens at the standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check)

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency examiner will watch you give a driving lesson to your pupil.

The lesson (a driving lesson) will last about 45 minutes. They (your pupil) must be driving for at least 40 minutes.

At the start of the lesson (a driving lesson), you should recap the goals for the lesson (a driving lesson) and discuss risk management with your pupil. This (a driving lesson) should take no more than 3 minutes.

At the end of the lesson (a driving lesson), you should give your pupil about 3 minutes to reflect on their (your pupil) performance.

The examiner (the examiners) will look for evidence that you meet the national standards for driver and rider training.

What you’ll be marked on

You’ll be marked on 17 areas of competence that are grouped into 3 categories:

lesson planning

risk management

teaching and learning skills

The 17 areas of competence are listed in the ADI standards check report form, which the examiner (the examiners) will fill in during your check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check).

You’ll get a score from 0 to 3 for each of the 17 competencies, which are added up to work out your grade.

After you give the lesson, the examiner (the examiners) will discuss your performance and give you your grade. This will take about 15 minutes.

You can take your trainer or mentor with you, but they cannot take part in the lesson.

Your standards check result

You’ll get your grade, along with your completed standards check form at the end of your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check).

Total score | Grade | Description

0-30 | Fail | Your performance is unsatisfactory

31-42 | Grade B | You’ll stay on the approved driving instructors (ADI) register

43-51 | Grade A | You have shown a high standard of instruction and you’ll stay on the ADI register (the approved driving instructors (ADI) register)

You’ll automatically fail if:

you get a score of 7 or less in the ‘risk management’ category

the examiner (the examiners) stops the lesson because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger

If you fail the standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check)

You’ll have up to 2 more attempts to pass the standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check).

If you fail 3 times:

you’ll be removed from the approved driving instructors (ADI) register

you’ll have to retake the ADI tests to join the ADI register (the approved driving instructors (ADI) register) again

Complain about your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check)

Complain to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency if you’re not happy about the way your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check) was carried out.

Appeal your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check)

You can appeal if you think your examiner didn’t follow the regulations when they carried out your standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check).

Your result cannot be changed, but you might be able to take another standards check if your appeal (appeal) is successful.

Contact your local magistrate’s court within 6 months to appeal in England and Wales.

If you live in Scotland, contact your local sheriff’s court within 21 days.

Old 'ADI check test' grades

The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check replaced the ADI check test on 7 April 2014.

Old ADI check test grades will apply until you take your first standards check.

If you got a grade 2 or 3 in your last ADI check test, you’ll have 2 attempts to pass the new ADI standards check (The approved driving instructor (ADI) standards check).

Old ‘ADI check test’ (the ADI check test) grades

Grade | Overall performance

6 | Very high

5 | Good

4 | Satisfactory

3 | Inadequate

2 | Poor

1 | Extremely poor

E | Educational check test

Educational check test grade

Educational (E) grades will not be given to newly qualified instructors in the new standard checks.


DVSA enhanced rider scheme trainer

Overview

You can become a Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) enhanced rider scheme trainer if you want to train fully qualified motorcyclists in the DVSA enhanced rider scheme.

This (the DVSA enhanced rider scheme) is the new name for the register of post-test motorcycle trainers (RPMT).

The scheme (the DVSA enhanced rider scheme) provides training for people who:

have recently passed their motorcycle test

are upgrading to a bigger bike

are returning to riding after a break

want to improve their skills to be a better, safer rider

When you qualify, your details will be given to motorcyclists looking for training.

Who can become a trainer

To become a DVSA enhanced rider scheme trainer you must:

be 21 or older

have had a full category A or A2 motorcycle licence for at least 3 years

Trainer test and registration fees

Fee type | Price

Theory test | £66

Registration and renewal fee (1 year) | £90

Registration and renewal fee (4 years) | £240

Ways to become a trainer

Apply to become a DVSA enhanced rider scheme trainer.

Get an advanced riding qualification if you do not already have one.

Pass a theory test.

If you’re not a direct access scheme (DAS) certified instructor, you also need to take a training course accredited by DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)).

You must complete the training course (a training course accredited by DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA))) within 2 years of passing the theory test (a theory test), or you’ll have to start the process again.

Advanced riding qualifications

The advanced riding qualifications that are accepted are:

BMF Blue Riband rider award (gold or silver grade)

DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) special test (gold or silver grade)

IAM Advanced Rider Course

RoSPA advanced riding test (gold or silver grade)

Diamond advanced motorcycle test or Diamond elite motorcycle test (if taken after 1 January 2017)

Taking the theory test (a theory test)

You can book your instructor theory test when the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) has accepted your application to join the register.

There are 2 parts to the test - multiple-choice questions and hazard perception. You have to pass both parts.

You have 3 attempts to pass the test. If you fail the third attempt, you have to wait 12 months before you can take it (the test) again.

Documents to take to your test

You must take your UK photocard driving licence to your test.

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland, bring the photocard and paper counterpart licence.

If you have a paper licence

Bring a valid passport as well as your paper licence (a paper licence).

If you do not have a passport, you need to get a photocard licence.

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right documents with you.

Wearing a face covering at your test

You must wear a face covering at your test. If you do not wear one, you must have a good reason, for example:

you have a physical or mental illness, impairment or disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

Wearing glasses does not count as a good reason.

You need to say why you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. If you do not, and you come to your test without a face covering, your test will be cancelled.

If you’ve already booked your test and did not say that you cannot wear a face covering, contact DVSA.

Multiple-choice questions

You have 1 hour and 30 minutes to answer 100 multiple-choice questions.

Before the test (your test) starts you’ll get:

instructions on how the test (your test) works

the chance to do some practice questions

How the questions work

There are 25 questions in each of these 4 categories:

rider practices and procedures, road and traffic signs, and motorway riding

rider responsibilities, rider attitude, riders and the law, and environmental issues

motorcycle and rider safety, motorcycle dynamics and handling, and dealing with incidents

development and training, instructional and coaching techniques, and hazard perception

To pass the multiple-choice part, you must get both:

an overall score of at least 85 out of 100

at least 20 out of 25 in each of the 4 categories of questions

Hazard perception

Before you start the hazard perception test, you’ll be shown a video about how it works.

You’ll then watch 14 video clips featuring everyday road scenes. These will contain at least one ‘developing hazard’.

You can score up to 5 points for each developing hazard. You need to score at least 57 points out of 75 to pass this part (the hazard perception test).

Managing your registration

You must carry your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) enhanced rider scheme trainer certificate with you whenever you are giving training.

Renewing your registration

Your registration lasts for either 1 year or 4 years. The registration and renewal fee is:

£90 for 1 year

£240 for 4 years

You should apply to renew your registration at least 2 weeks before your current registration runs out.

You’re responsible for remembering when to renew your registration.

To renew, download the application form and send it to DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)).

If your registration expired in the last 12 months

You can re-register using the same form. You will not have to go through the qualifying process again.

Standards checks and monitoring

You must take a standards check to make sure you can continue to be a Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) enhanced rider scheme trainer. DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will contact you to arrange this.

A DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) examiner will watch you train a pupil to assess your training skills.

How you’re checked depends on whether you’re a direct access scheme (DAS) certified instructor.

If you’re a DAS instructor

Your standards check (a standards check) will be based on a DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) enhanced rider scheme lesson.

You must score 43 or more out of 51 to continue being an enhanced rider scheme trainer.

If you do not pass, you’ll need to take another standards check. If you fail a second time, you will not be allowed to continue as an enhanced rider scheme trainer.

If you cannot carry out a lesson because there’s no pupil available

The DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) examiner (A DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) examiner) will carry out a motorcycle trainer standards check while you provide compulsory basic training (CBT). You need to score 43 or above to pass.

If you do not pass, you’ll need to take another standards check. If you fail a second time, you will not be allowed to continue as an enhanced rider scheme trainer, and will need to restart the qualification process. You can also be removed from the CBT instructor register.

If you’re not a DAS instructor

You must take a standards check within the first year of qualifying as a DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) enhanced rider scheme trainer. DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will contact you to arrange this.

You must score 43 or more out of 51 to pass.

If you do not pass, you’ll need to take another standards check. If you fail a second time, you will not be allowed to continue as a trainer.

If this happens and you want to continue as a trainer, you’ll need to:

have an up to date recognised advanced rider qualification

pass another theory test

take additional training at an approved enhanced rider scheme trainer centre and provide proof of the development you’ve taken

Documents to record training

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will email you the following documents (Documents to record training) when you first qualify:

DVSA enhanced rider scheme syllabus and list of modules

rider’s log book

details of how to issue the DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) certificate of competence

Use these (Documents to record training) to provide and record training, and to issue certificates to riders who complete the DVSA enhanced rider scheme (DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) enhanced rider scheme).

You’ll also be sent leaflets and posters you can use to advertise the DVSA enhanced rider scheme (DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) enhanced rider scheme).

If you lose your documents

Contact DVSA (your Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) to get the documents (your documents) sent again.


16 to 19 Bursary Fund

Overview

You could get a bursary to help with education-related costs if you’re aged 16 to 19 and:

studying at a publicly funded school or college in England - not a university

on a training course, including unpaid work experience

A publicly funded school is one that does not charge you for attending it.

There’s a different scheme in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

If you’re 19 and over

You could also get a bursary if you either:

are continuing on a course you started aged 16 to 18 (known as being a ’19+ continuer’)

have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)

What a bursary is for

A bursary is money that you, or your education or training provider, can use to pay for things like:

clothing, books and other equipment for your course

transport and lunch on days you study or train

What you'll get

There are 2 types of 16 to 19 bursary:

a discretionary bursary

Bursary for students in vulnerable groups

You could get a bursary worth up to £1,200, depending on your circumstances and benefits.

Discretionary bursary

You could get a discretionary bursary if you need financial help but do not qualify for a bursary for students in vulnerable groups. Your education or training provider decides how much you get and what it’s used for.

If you’re over 19, you’ll only be eligible for a discretionary bursary.

Your provider will decide how you get your bursary. You might get:

an instalment paid by cash, cheque or bank transfer

things like a travel pass, free meals or books

Some providers also offer one-off payments to cover study trips or travel for university interviews.

Your provider could stop payments if you break their (Your provider) rules, for example about attendance or how your bursary is used.

Eligibility

You must:

be at least 16 and under 19 on 31 August 2021

study at a publicly funded school or college, or be on an unpaid training course

meet the residency requirements - your school or college can check this

You may be able to get a bursary if at least one of the following applies:

you’re in or you recently left local authority care

you get Income Support or Universal Credit because you’re financially supporting yourself

you get Disability Living Allowance (DLA) in your name and either Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit

you get Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in your name and either ESA (Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)) or Universal Credit

The amount you may get depends on the costs you have and what you need for your course. This might include money for books, equipment or travel costs to school or college.

Discretionary bursary

Your school or college will have their own criteria for discretionary bursaries. They’ll look at your individual circumstances - this usually includes your family income.

Ask student services about their criteria and any evidence you’ll need.

You can apply to a discretionary bursary if you’re over 19 and either:

continuing on a course you started aged 16 to 18 (known as being a ‘19+ continuer’)

How to claim

Apply to your school, college or training provider. Ask student services or your tutor to explain what you need to do.

When to apply

Apply once you know where you’ll study or train, so you’ll get your bursary as soon as possible.

You might need to reapply for a bursary for each year of your course. Check with your provider.

Help

Your tutor or student services can help you decide if you’re eligible for a bursary and explain how to apply.

Contact the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) if your tutor or student services cannot answer your question.

You think a decision is unfair

Speak to student services if you’re unhappy with a decision. Follow their complaints process if you cannot resolve the problem.

Emergencies and hardship

You might be able to get more support if your circumstances change or you have an emergency. Your provider might also have a separate hardship fund. Speak to student services if you need extra help.