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Authorised testing facilities (ATFs): guidance, forms and updates

Guidance, forms and updates for authorised testing facilities (ATFs) that test heavy goods vehicles, trailers and public service vehicles.

Updates to this page

From:
Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
Published:
3 July 2014
Last updated:
3 June 2021
Show all updates

  1. Removed - documents that have been withdrawn as they were out of date and no longer relevant. - "The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency has temporarily stopped accepting applications to set up new ATFs."

  2. Added 'Induct DVSA assessors working at your vehicle testing site' to the document collection.

  3. Added ATF bulletin 02-18 to the document collection.

  4. Added 'ATF contract for next generation testing arrangements' to the document collection.

  5. Added 'ATF e-bulletin issue 9: August 2014' to the collection.

  6. Added 'Lorry, bus and trailer annual test fees to fall' news story to the collection.

  7. First published.

An ATF tests that heavy goods vehicles, trailers and public service vehicles like buses are roadworthy and meet safety and environmental standards.

Set up an ATF

Guides and forms for setting up an ATF.

Run an ATF

Guides and forms for running an ATF.

Contact an ATF network business manager if you have any problems or questions about annual tests being provided at your ATF.

Approved equipment

You must have at least the minimum level of equipment for each vehicle class you’re authorised to test.

The equipment listed is acceptable for testing cars, lorries, buses, coaches and trailers at ATFs. It must be bought from an approved manufacturer.

Only equipment on the Class 5 list with the appropriate computer control system, or clearly marked with HGV (for testing lorries) or PSV (for testing buses and coaches), is acceptable.

You’ll also need a range of generic equipment which can be bought from any suitable manufacturer and include:

  • brake airline valve lift gauge
  • communication system
  • inspection hand lamp
  • load simulation provision
  • pit jack

You must make sure that all your equipment is in good working order and calibrated where appropriate.

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