BRAKE PERFORMANCE COMPLIANCE

UPDATED BRAKE PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT:

DVSA REQUIREMENTS FROM APRIL 2025!

Are you uncertain about the DVSA’s brake performance requirements, what has changed, and how it affects your fleet?

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you stay compliant and keep your vehicle safe on the road:

WHAT'S CHANGED?

In January 2023, the DVSA announced that all brake performance assessments must be performed with the vehicle laden to at least 65% of its maximum weight - unless exempt (see exemption list in Section 2.1).

Mandatory laden roller brake testing ensures accurate and reliable brake performance measurements.

As of April 2025, the DVSA’s revised brake performance testing rules require fleets to include a brake performance assessment in every safety inspection. Operators can meet this requirement using one of the following:

• Roller Brake Testing (RBT) – Carry out at least four meaningful laden roller brake tests per year, including the annual MOT.

• Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring System (EBPMS) – EBPMS can be configured to generate reports that align with a fleet’s maintenance schedule, reducing the need for a laden roller brake test to just once a year at the annual MOT.

Each method has its advantages, and the best choice depends on factors such as fleet size, operational efficiency, compliance needs, and cost considerations.

LOAD SIMULATION (DVSA UPDATE - AUGUST 2025)

In August 2025, the DVSA introduced load simulation brake rollers as an alternative to manually loading trailers for roller brake testing. This method simulates the weight of a laden vehicle, meaning vehicles do not need to be physically loaded to the required 65% of their maximum weight.

Key points:

• Vehicles that are currently exempt from laden brake testing remain exempt.

• Using load simulation is optional; operators can continue traditional laden roller brake testing.

• Load simulation offers an alternative for laden roller brake testing that is difficult or costly to load.

WHY HAS THIS CHANGED?

The DVSA introduced these updates to improve road safety, enhance braking system monitoring, and reduce the risk of brake failures. By making brake performance assessments a mandatory part of every safety inspection, the aim is to ensure that braking systems remain in peak condition throughout the year.

09/2025 – Information is correct at the time of publication and is subject to change. Always refer to the DVSA Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness for the most up-to-date information.

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