ROLLER BRAKE TESTING FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

A Roller Brake Test (RBT) is a traditional method of assessing a trailer’s brake performance. It measures the braking force applied by each wheel’s brake to ensure they are operating within the acceptable performance range.

During the test, the trailer is driven onto rollers that rotate the wheels at a controlled speed. Each axle is tested individually as the system measures braking force.

Since January 1, 2023, the DVSA requires all goods vehicles and trailers to be loaded to at least 65% of their maximum weight during a Roller Brake Test (RBT). This ensures accurate and effective testing of the vehicle’s braking ability.

• In situations where it’s difficult to load the vehicle to 65%, vehicles may be tested with a load as low as 50%, but never less. 

• A load of at least 50% still allows proper brake actuation and avoids early tyre lockups, providing a more reliable evaluation of stopping performance.

Certain exemptions apply, particularly for some triaxle and semi-trailers with specific design limitations or typical load types. For full details on these exemptions, please refer to the DVSA’s guide (Section 2.1).

In April 2025, the DVSA released an update to its Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness, advising of a significant change to brake performance test requirements. This means every heavy goods vehicle safety inspection must now include a brake performance assessment.

You can meet this requirement using one of the following:

Roller Brake Testing (RBT):

• Conduct a minimum of four meaningful roller brake tests (RBTs) per year, including the annual MOT.

• The trailer must be laden to at least 65% of the maximum weight (unless exempt).

Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring System (EBPMS):

• EBPMS can be programmed to automatically generate brake performance reports in line with a fleet’s maintenance schedule.

• It reduces the need for multiple laden roller brake tests (RBT) to just once a year during the annual MOT (depending on maintenance schedule).

A minimum of four meaningful roller break tests (RBTs) per year is required, one of which must be at MOT.

Vehicles can be presented for a roller brake test (RBT) up to 14 days before the safety inspection.

• Load the trailer safely to at least 65% of its maximum design weight.

• Secure the load evenly across axles.

• Check trye pressure and condition. 

• Ensure the braking system is in good working order.

For a detailed guide – CLICK HERE.

15 months. Keep the roller brake test printouts with the vehicle’s safety inspection record, and make sure they are available if requested by the DVSA.

• Any defects must be rectified immediately. 

• A re-test should be carried out, 

• Keep both the failure and pass certificates with maintenance records.

A Laden Roller Brake Test (RBT) can be carried out:

• At a test centre: no need to buy equipment, but you’ll need access to a facility. The cost of a roller brake test varies, but it’s generally priced per axle.

• Using your own equipment: You can buy your own roller brake test equipment; however, this can be costly.

Other considerations:

• Not all operators have access to the required loading equipment.

• Some operators need to hire extra staff to load and unload trailers.

With more brake tests now required each year (a minimum of four laden), downtime and operational costs associated with roller brake tests can rise significantly.