From 21 August 2025, DVSA has approved load simulation brake rollers for annual testing.
Using this method, vehicles may not need to be loaded before being presented for testing.
Vehicles that are currently exempt from laden brake testing will still be exempt. It is considered best practice to test even if an exemption applies.
Why is this change happening?
Traditional laden brake testing can be time-consuming and expensive, as vehicles need to be loaded before testing. The new option provides an alternative method, particularly useful for vehicles that are difficult or costly to load.
The change is designed to save operators time and money, while also reducing the environmental impact of running heavily laden vehicles solely for brake tests. It may also lower the risk of forklift-related accidents by cutting down the need to load heavy weights during the process.
What’s next?
DVSA will continue monitoring advances in testing technology as they become commercially available and will update its guidelines accordingly.
