Guidance

Prepare your HGV for the brake test

How to prepare your HGV for the brake testing part of the annual test (MOT).

From:
Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
Published
13 April 2016

Applies to England, Scotland and Wales

Documents

Heavy vehicle brake test: best practice

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Details

This guide tells you how to get a satisfactory outcome to the brake testing element of the MOT by preparing your heavy vehicle properly.

Updates to this page

Published 13 April 2016

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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. You are currently viewing: 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.