Truck, bus and trailer annual test fees set to fall 15 August 2014

More than 80% of annual tests for trucks, buses and trailers will cost less from 1 October 2014, according to the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency).

Fees for tests taken at ATFs Authorised Testing Facilities) will fall by an average of 3.5%. Meanwhile, fees for tests at DVSA sites will increase by an average of 18.5%.

DVSA says that the change in fee structures means operators not using DVSA's own facilities will no longer be contributing to their running costs.

DVSA figures show that more than 80% of annual tests are currently completed at ATFs, most of which are privately owned with a DVSA examiner contracted to perform the tests.

The agency plans to provide at least 85% of annual tests from ATFs by 31 March 2015.

ATFs testing vehicles from third party operators must charge annual test fees at DVSA set rates. They are allowed to charge extra pit fees but these remain capped, depending on the vehicle type.

"There are now well over 400 ATFs across the country, and our strategy of providing bus and lorry testing at third party sites is already giving customers the choice of using a more convenient, local option," comments DVSA chief executive Alastair Peoples (pictured).

"By realigning fees we are now making this even more cost effective for customers," he continues.

"With no general fee increases since 2009, and reduced theory test fees starting in October, we're demonstrating our commitment to minimising costs for all our customers."

Peoples explains that the cost of providing tests from DVSA sites is higher than from ATFs. In the past, these costs have been spread across all tests, but will now only be spread over the tests taken at DVSA sites.

DVSA is also changing fees for HGV and PSV operator licences, which will now rise by 1% "to cover the running costs associated with the national register of licensed operators".

The register, which has been introduced as part of EU legislation, aims to create a more level playing field for international transport operations and reduce distortion of competition across the EU.

Author
Brian Tinham

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