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Part of Get an annual test (MOT) for a lorry, bus or trailer: step by step
Guidance

MOT inspection manual: HGVs

Inspection processes and standards for lorry, trailer and other heavy goods vehicle (HGV) MOT tests (annual tests).

Updates to this page

From:
Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
Published:
18 July 2013
Last updated:
19 February 2026
Show all updates

  1. Added 'Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) inspection manual (from 1 April 2026)'.

  2. Added the HGV inspection manual (from 1 July 2025).

  3. Added the HGV inspection manual (from 1 April 2025).

  4. Added the HGV inspection manual (from 1 June 2024).

  5. Added the HGV inspection manual (from 1 April 2023). Full details are set out in the change table in the document.

  6. Added the HGV inspection manual (from 1 May 2022)

  7. Updated to latest version of HGV inspection manual. Changes include: - updates to section 26 'Speedometer/Tachograph' - updates to section 33 'Speed Limiter' Full details of changes can be found in the revision record in the HGV inspection manual.

  8. Added the HGV inspection manual (from 1 February 2021) and HGV inspection manual: changes from 1 February 2021

  9. Updated the HGV inspection manual with the latest version. Full details are set out in the change table in the document.

  10. Updated with the latest version of the manual.

  11. Added the version of the HGV inspection manual that will apply from 13 September 2018. Full details are set out in the change table in the document.

  12. Updated the HGV inspection manual that applies from 20 May 2018, and removed the manual that applied until 19 May 2018.

  13. Updated the heavy goods vehicles (HGV) inspection manual and change table that will apply from 20 May 2018.

  14. Added a draft version of the HGV inspection manual that will apply from 20 May 2018.

  15. Added the HGV inspection manual that will apply from 1 October 2015.

  16. Added the HGV inspection manual that comes into effect from 1 April 2015

  17. First published.

Applies to England, Scotland and Wales

Documents

Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) inspection manual

PDF, 6.61 MB, 193 pages

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Details

This manual is for everyone who takes part in HGV examinations and maintenance and explains:

  • acceptable reasons for failure
  • application of specific relevant requirements
  • procedures and standards used during testing

You cannot buy printed copies of the manual from DVSA, but you’re allowed to print your own copies.

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This page is Part of Get an annual test (MOT) for a lorry, bus or trailer: step by step

  1. Step 1 Check when your test is due and get reminders

    1. Check when your annual test is due
    2. Get reminders by email or text message

  2. Step 2 Book the test

    1. Find your nearest test centre and book your test

    The cost will vary depending on where you take the test.

    1. Check the fees for heavy goods vehicles or trailers
    2. Check the fees for public service vehicles

    Fill in an application form before you book your test if it's the first time it's been tested and it's:

  3. Step 3 Prepare your vehicle

    1. Check your vehicle’s headlamp aim
    2. Check the brakes if it's a heavy goods vehicle
    3. Check what to do if your vehicle carries dangerous goods

    You can get your vehicle checked by a qualified mechanic to prepare for the test. They should be using the test standards in the:

  4. and Prepare the documents you need

    1. Check what documents you need to take with you

    You need to bring extra documents if your vehicle is used to carry dangerous goods, or if it's exempt from having a tachograph or speed limiter.

  5. Step 4 Take your vehicle to the test

    1. Find out what happens at the test centre

    At the end of the test, you'll be told if your vehicle has passed or failed.