3-month grace period to install connected equipment returns

Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency sent this bulletin at 27-10-2020 03:30 PM GMT
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3-month grace period to install connected equipment returns

From 1 December 2020, we are reintroducing a mandatory rule around connected equipment.

Vehicle testing stations (VTS) which change ownership will have 3 months to install connected equipment at their site.

This will also apply to sites where a change of ownership has happened since 30 March 2020.

Why did the rule change?

When an Authorised Examiner takes over a vehicle testing station there is a 3-month window to get connected equipment installed.

On 30 March we suspended the 3-month requirement because many installation engineers were on furlough. The 3-month grace period is now being reinstated. 

Which garages are affected?

  • any VTS which has changed ownership since 30 March 2020
  • a closed MOT centre that is reopening (this applies regardless of how long it’s been closed)

It will also apply to any VTS which changes ownership after 1 December 2020.

What is the deadline?

Scenario Deadline
Any VTS with a change of ownership between 30 March and 1 December 2020 28 February 2021
Any VTS where there is a change of ownership after 1 December 2020 + 3 months from date of change

If connected equipment is not installed by the deadline, the site will not be able to continue testing.

What equipment does this apply to?

  • roller brake testers
  • decelerometers

You can find out more about connected equipment on GOV.UK.